Appliances are so common in our day-to-day lives that we don’t always consider safety concerns when using them. Safety should always be considered, though, when using any machine. Here are some key tips to keep your home and family safe when using common household appliances.

Install GFCI Outlets

We all know that appliances should generally be kept away from water due to the risk of electric shock. However, simply separating appliances from water is just the start.

Installing a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet is a must if appliances or outlets are near water or in damp locations. If there’s a power fluctuation caused by water and appliances coming into contact, these outlets will trip the circuit and stop the flow of electricity. This keeps people safe from electric shock and helps protect appliances from being overloaded.

GFCI outlets are often needed in locations prone to water exposure or damp conditions, including:

• Laundry rooms
• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Outdoor areas

If you don’t have GFCI outlets, you should consider installing them. This important electrical upgrade can make a huge difference in the safety of your household. 

Avoid Using Extension Cords

Using an extension cord to connect an appliance to an outlet may seem like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, this “no-brainer” is actually a “no-no.”

Extension cords should only be used as a temporary solution to power appliances because they:

• Increase the chance of power fluctuations that could damage the appliance
• Increase the number of locations where water could be introduced
• Pose a fire hazard due to the potential for loose connections and sparks
• Can cause wires to overheat and start a fire if the appliance draws more power than the extension cord can handle

Instead of using an extension cord, you may need to move the appliance closer to an appropriate outlet. This small change is key to keeping your home and family safe.

Read the Manual

While appliance user manuals may not be great literature, they have important information about proper usage and appliance troubleshooting. Manuals highlight necessary safety measures and give information on keeping your appliance in good working order.

The user manual will also tell you if your home’s wiring is suitable for the appliance in question. To avoid the risk of fire or appliance damage, it’s essential that your wiring can handle the electrical load of your appliance. If it can’t, you may need to call an electrician to do some upgrades.

The user’s manual will also give you important information about:

• Safe installation and use
• Whether your appliance is suitable for indoor and/or outdoor use
• Best practices to mitigate water exposure

You’ll also get the added benefit of learning about your appliance’s advanced features and any warranties it comes with. Being armed with information upfront will help you prioritize safety and get the most out of your appliance.

Morris County Appliance Repair has been in business since 1962 and we’re proud to serve the appliance repair needs of Rockaway, Chatham, and the greater Morris County area. Call us today if you have questions about appliance safety, installation, or repairs. We’re licensed and insured for your peace of mind and we offer both emergency service and regular appointments for your convenience. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Choosing appliances for your home is not a one-size-fits-all process. You will likely have your appliances for years, so finding ones that work for your home and your lifestyle is important. Before committing to a new appliance, consider the following elements to make the right choice for your household.

Appliance Size and Shape

First, consider how much space you have. Take measurements and assess what size appliance will fit where you need it to go. This will help you pare down the choices once you start looking and ensure you choose a model suitable for your home’s layout.

Energy Consumption

The cost of a new appliance doesn’t end when you purchase it. There’s still the long-term cost of energy usage to consider. Before you buy, find out how different models compare in terms of energy efficiency.

Lowering your energy usage is better for the environment and your household budget. It might be worth it to buy a more expensive appliance now if it will keep your energy costs down in the long run. 

Brand Reputation and Quality

There are hundreds of different appliance makes and models. Some names may be familiar while others are totally new to you.

As you consider appliance options, note which ones meet your needs. Then, look into the current reputation of each brand—and even specific models. Research online and ask people you know if anyone has experiences or recommendations to share.

Choosing an appliance with a good reputation and track record will likely save you time, hassle, and money. From needing fewer repairs to having a longer lifespan, investing in a quality appliance pays dividends. 

Household Needs

From accessibility considerations to family size, it’s important to look at your household’s needs before you buy new appliances. You want to choose appliances that support your household, not make things harder.

For example, do you have a big family that generates a lot of laundry? Consider getting a washer and dryer that can handle extra large loads. Do you entertain a lot? A large refrigerator might be a great investment.

When shopping for appliances, you’re not just looking at how much each model costs or what size it is. You’re also looking at how it will fit into your life. 

If you’re in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, call Morris County Appliance Repair for all your appliance questions. We offer appliance repair and maintenance services and quality appliance parts for all your DIY projects. The Morris County Appliance Repair team is fully licensed and insured and we have 50+ years of combined experience. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

When it’s time to say goodbye to an old appliance, it’s important to make a disposal plan—especially if you’re bringing in a new one to replace it. Due to their size and, in some cases, their makeup, you can’t just put a major home appliance on the curb with the rest of your trash. So, how do you dispose of an appliance you no longer need?

Research Local Appliance Recycling and Disposal

Appliance recycling and disposal avenues vary from location to location, so your first step is to find out what the options are where you live. Your municipal waste management division is a good place to start. They may offer disposal or recycling services, or they may be able to connect you with organizations that do.

If you need other disposal options, you may be able to get help from:

• Utility companies
• Appliance manufacturers
• Junk hauling services
• Appliance repair professionals

The most important thing is: don’t just dump your appliances or take them to a landfill. This can be environmentally hazardous and could result in steep fines. 

Work With Your Appliance Seller

If you’re replacing an old appliance with a new one, the company that sold the new appliance may be able to take the old one off your hands. This is a common practice, so don’t be shy about inquiring!

The company might even take multiple appliances away, even if they aren’t replacing all of them. This varies from company to company, but it never hurts to ask.

Donate to Charity

If your appliance is still in good working condition, donating it to charity is a wonderful way to give it a second life. This keeps it out of the landfill and helps people in need all in one fell swoop.

Many charities will pick up large donations. You can check their website or give them a call to see what their policy is.

Responsible Appliance Removal

When you’re getting rid of an appliance, you may need to do some safety-oriented preparation before it’s taken away. If you’re working with an organization or company, make sure you check with them regarding any pre-transport actions. 

If you’re getting rid of an appliance that contains chemicals, you may need to drain those before the appliance is removed. Most commonly, this will pertain to refrigerators or freezers that contain Freon. If you’re responsible for the Freon removal, you’ll need to contact an EPA-certified technician to do the work since this coolant has to be handled and disposed of according to strict regulations.

Other preparations might include:

• Unplugging and defrosting fridges or freezers
• Securing any doors or lids
• Securing or removing any loose or moving parts  

Most people will have to deal with appliance disposal or recycling at some point in their lives. If you need help with appliance disposal in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’ll be happy to share our knowledge with you and help in any way we can. Morris County Appliance Repair is here for all of your appliance repair and support needs—You Can Count On Us!

In an era where technology continuously shapes our daily routines, the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) into home appliances is revolutionizing the way we interact with our kitchen and laundry room. Morris County Appliance Repair, a trusted name since 1962, delves into this transformative journey, offering insights into the world of smart appliances. From refrigerators that order groceries to washing machines you can control with your smartphone, the future of home management is here.

The Benefits of Smart Appliances

• Enhanced Convenience and Efficiency: Smart appliances offer unprecedented convenience, streamlining household tasks and saving time. Imagine ovens that preheat on your commute home or dishwashers that start remotely to fit your schedule. These intelligent devices not only simplify life but also promote energy efficiency, potentially reducing utility bills through optimized operation times.
• Advanced Features and Connectivity: The connectivity of smart appliances allows for seamless integration into the digital ecosystem of your home. With real-time alerts and remote diagnostics, staying on top of maintenance and troubleshooting has never been easier. Furthermore, these appliances can learn from your habits, offering personalized suggestions to enhance your lifestyle.

Potential Pitfalls of Connected Devices

• Security and Privacy Concerns: As with any device connected to the internet, smart appliances pose potential security risks. Protecting your network and personal information is paramount to prevent unauthorized access and ensure privacy. Regular software updates and robust security protocols are essential in mitigating these risks.
• Dependence on Technology and Network: The reliance on internet connectivity and technology means that a simple network outage could render these smart features unusable. It’s important to consider the balance between traditional functionality and smart capabilities when choosing appliances for your home.

The integration of IoT into home appliances is transforming kitchens and laundry rooms across Morris County and beyond. While the benefits of convenience, efficiency, and personalized experiences are compelling, it’s crucial to navigate the potential pitfalls with awareness and caution. At Morris County Appliance Repair, we embrace the future of appliance technology, offering our expertise in repair services and parts sales to ensure your home remains at the forefront of innovation.

Warranties can be incredibly helpful in terms of saving money and extending the life of your appliance, but they can be tricky to understand. Here’s a breakdown of how warranties typically work—and how you can make them work for you.

Appliance Warranty Options

Most appliances come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty. This type of warranty is typically valid for a set amount of time after purchase and covers the cost of repairing or replacing any defective or malfunctioning parts. 

In many cases, you can choose to purchase additional coverage known as an extended warranty or protection plan. This will increase the length of time your warranty benefits are active and may also include coverage for additional repairs or replacement parts.

In both cases, though, it’s important to read the fine print so that you know exactly what’s covered—and for how long. Every warranty is different, so you should look over the terms as soon as you get them.

Know Your Warranty Coverage

Manufacturer warranties usually only cover costs related to defective materials or workmanship. In short, the manufacturer only cover repairs if they caused the problem. Other appliance repair issues that come up may not be covered. This includes damage from:

• Normal wear and tear
• Accidents
• Misuse
• Incorrect installation
• Unauthorized repairs or modifications

An extended warranty or protection plan may cover some of these issues, such as normal wear or accidents, but that’s not a given. Always double check the scope of your coverage before you report a problem or make any repairs.

Access Warranty Coverage Correctly

Even if you have an issue that’s covered under a manufacturer’s warranty or extended warranty, you may still need to follow a certain procedure in order to use your warranty coverage. Again, this will vary from company to company, so make sure you review the steps for your specific appliance and manufacturer.

Typically, the first thing to do is contact the customer service department to report the problem. They’ll provide additional instructions so that you can arrange for service from an authorized provider.

At every step, it’s important to keep a record of what the problem is, who you speak to, and when you speak to them. This documentation will help you keep track of the process and will protect you if there are any issues or disputes about coverage down the line.

If you use email or chat to report a problem, you can often download a record of your communication. If you contact the manufacturer by phone, make sure you get the name of the representative and any case or reference numbers connected to the call.

If you report a covered problem through the correct channel, you should be all set in terms of getting the repairs or replacement parts you need at no additional cost. Just remember to read the fine print and contact the manufacturer before you take action.

The team at Morris County Appliance Repair is here to help with all of your appliance repair needs in Rockaway, Chatham, and the greater Morris County area—so call us today! We’ll be happy to walk you through the warranty process and we can assist with all your repair needs whether they’re covered under warranty or not. We offer both regular and emergency service and we have weekday and weekend appointments available for your convenience. We’re here to put our 50 years of experience to work for you. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Is it better to try to fix a broken appliance yourself or should you call a professional appliance repair technician? This is one of the eternal questions of the DIY enthusiast, and it’s not always easy to answer. Here are some key points to consider when you’re deciding which route is right for you.

DIY Appliance Repair 

Tackling appliance repairs on your own can be a great option. It’s important to look at the situation carefully before you dive in, though, to make sure DIY is the best choice. Elements to consider include:

• Your level of experience
• Your available tools
• Safety concerns and possible risks

If the repair job in question is relatively simple and you know what to do, DIY might be the way to go. This can save you both time and money since you don’t have to pay—or wait—for a service call.

On the other hand, if you don’t have the experience or tools needed, calling a pro might be the better choice. The same holds true if there’s a major safety concern like working with gas or navigating complicated electrical components. You don’t want to injure yourself or cause additional appliance issues by attempting a DIY repair instead of calling an appliance repair company.

Professional Appliance Repair Service

Bringing in a professional appliance repair technician may not always be necessary, but there are some definite pros to calling in an expert. These include:

• Access to specialty parts and equipment
• Diagnostic expertise
• Knowledge of safety procedures

It’s also important to consider if your appliance is still under warranty. In many cases, a warranty will be void if anyone but a professional performs service or repairs. So, even if you’re able to do a DIY repair, you’ll have to call in the pros to take full advantage of the warranty period.

If you live in Rockaway or the greater Morris County area, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair for help with any appliance questions you may have. We’re here to assist with all your appliance repair, service, and maintenance needs. Our team is fully licensed and insured and we have over 50 years of experience working with a wide range of appliance makes and models. If you need emergency service, we’re here for you. We also offer regular appointments with weekday and weekend hours. Our goal is to provide the best customer service and appliance service possible. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Our home appliances are such a standard part of modern life that we don’t always pay attention to them day-to-day. While that’s fine a lot of the time, it is still important to perform regular maintenance to keep them in the best condition possible.

Avoid Costly Appliance Repairs

A major benefit of performing regular maintenance is that it helps you find small problems before they become major issues. Taking care of the little things as they come up equals big savings in terms of both money and hassle down the line.

Scheduling regular appliance maintenance is a great way to build these steps into your routine. Some regular tasks to add to your calendar include:

• Checking your washing machine hoses
• Checking the door gaskets on your washing machine, fridge, freezer, and oven
• Cleaning out your dryer vent

Looking at these elements on a regular schedule means that you’ll be able to see any changes or damage before they become big issues. That way, you can make small repairs as needed instead of wresting with (and paying for) major repairs later.

Improve Appliance Performance

Regular maintenance also has the benefit of improving the performance and longevity of your appliances. Appliances that are working optimally make your life smoother and save money when it comes to energy usage and cost.

It may not always be easy to see what kind of maintenance tasks need to be done, so it’s important to keep these things in mind as you do other cleaning and maintenance tasks around the house. Some key jobs to add to your list are:

• Cleaning your dishwasher to get rid of soap and grease buildup
• Defrosting your freezer
• Cleaning dust off of your refrigerator coils
• Cleaning food spills from your range and oven

Not only do these maintenance tasks make your appliances look better, but they also help them work better too. Less debris means better functionality all around!

Put Safety First

Appliance maintenance is also important when it comes to safety. For example, lint and debris in your dryer vent is a fire hazard. A stove with dirty or blocked burners can cause pilot light and gas leak issues. A faulty refrigerator can mean that, unbeknownst to you, your might eat spoiled food. 

While these are worst-case scenarios, the dangers are very real. Luckily, they’re also avoidable with regular maintenance. 

If you need help with appliance maintenance or appliance repair in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. Our team is fully licensed and insured and we’re here to put our 50+ years of experience to work for you. Call us for weekday, weekend, or emergency service. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

Being energy efficient means being green—in more ways than one! When you optimize the energy efficiency of your household appliances, you help the environment and save money at the same time. Here are some top tips for reducing your energy costs and your carbon footprint.

Maintain and Clean Your Appliances

Keeping your appliances in good condition isn’t just about looks. It’s also about how efficiently they function. Here are some easy ways to optimize energy use across various home appliances:

• Clean the lint trap on your dryer after every load—your clothes will dry more quickly with good air circulation.
• Repair broken or damaged seals on your refrigerator or freezer so they don’t have to work too hard to keep things cool.
• Regularly defrost manual-defrost freezers (usually before the ice buildup reaches more than 1/4 inch) so that excess frost doesn’t take up extra energy.

When you keep your appliances in good condition, they’ll look great and will work more efficiently. It’s a win-win all around.

Make Small Changes

Making a few minor adjustments to how you use your home appliances can add up to big energy savings over time. Some easy ways to increase the energy efficiency of your appliances include: 

• Open your fridge less. The less you open it, the less energy it loses trying to keep things cold.
• Wash your clothes in cold water. Your laundry detergent does the cleaning, not the water temperature!
• Keep your oven closed while baking. Use the oven light to peek in, but keep the door closed and the heat inside.
• Let your dishes air dry instead of using the heated dry option on your dishwasher.

As you get in the habit of being more energy efficient, you’re sure to find even more ways to save energy and optimize appliance efficiency as you go along.

If you need help with appliance repairs or have questions about appliance energy efficiency, call the team at Morris County Appliance Repair today. We’re your go-to appliance repair experts serving Rockaway, Chatham, and the greater Morris County area. We have over 50 years of combined experience and our customer service is second to none. We do all our work in-house and we are licensed and insured for your peace of mind. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!

It’s a question we’ve all grappled with: your reliable washing machine or oven starts acting up. Should you call in a technician or just replace the whole thing? Since 1962, Morris County Appliance Repair has been guiding homeowners through this very decision. Today, we’d like to outline some major factors to consider during this process.

Pros of Repairing:

1. Cost-effective: Often, the cost of repairing an appliance is significantly less than purchasing a new one.
2. Environmentally Friendly: Repairing extends the life of your appliance, reducing waste and the environmental impact of disposing of the old and producing the new.
3. Maintains Home Aesthetics: If your appliance matches other items in your home, repairing can help maintain a consistent look.

Pros of Replacing:

1. Updated Technology: Newer models often come with updated features and energy efficiencies which can save you money in the long run.
2. Warranty: A new appliance typically comes with a warranty, ensuring coverage for certain damages or malfunctions.
3. Peace of Mind: Sometimes, replacing an old, troublesome appliance can bring peace of mind and reduce recurrent repair costs.

Signs It Might Be Time to Replace:

1. Age: If your appliance is nearing or past its typical lifespan (e.g., a refrigerator lasts 10-15 years), replacement might be more cost-effective.
2. Frequent Breakdowns: If you’re calling us or another technician more than once a year, it might be time to consider replacement.
3. Cost of Repair: A good rule of thumb is if the repair cost is more than 50% of the price of a new appliance, consider replacing.
4. Energy Efficiency: Older appliances can consume more energy. Replacing them with energy-efficient models can lead to significant savings on your bills.
5. Obsolete Parts: If parts are hard to come by or obsolete, it’s a sign that the appliance may become unrepairable soon.

While these guidelines can help, every situation is unique. Whether you’re in Rockaway, Chatham, or any of our service areas, the experts at Morris County Appliance Repair are just a call away. We’re here to advise you on the best route for your home and budget.

Don’t wrestle with the decision alone. For all of your Appliance Repair needs in Morris County, NJ, call Morris County Appliance Repair!

Doing simple appliance repairs yourself is a great way to save money and build up your home improvement skills. However, it’s important to make sure you’re using the right materials for the job. Read on to learn why buying parts directly from your local appliance repair company is recommended.

Wide Selection of Appliance Repair Parts

Appliance repair companies already have lots of parts on hand. Since they need access to parts when out on service calls, they typically stock parts for most major brands of household appliances. If you go to a store or shop online, it can often be hard to find exactly what you need. Your local appliance repair team, on the other hand, will be able to connect you to the right part without delay.

Quality Assurance

When you buy parts from an appliance repair professional, you know you’re getting the same quality product that they use for repairs. This takes the guesswork out of choosing which part to go with—the experts have made the selection already!

Many appliance companies also offer warranties on parts—even if you buy the parts and do the work yourself. Just ask your local pro if that’s something they provide. You might be pleasantly surprised by the coverage and peace of mind you can get.

Appliance Repair Experts on Call

Performing appliance repairs on your own is a great choice—until it’s not. If you discover that a job is beyond your skill or if there are unforeseen complications along the way, you might have to call in a professional.

If you have purchased parts for the project from your local appliance repair team, they’ll already be somewhat familiar with your situation. If you need to call them in, they’ll have a headstart on the problem.

If you need appliance repair parts or service in Rockaway, Chatham, or the greater Morris County area, reach out to Morris County Appliance Repair today. Our customer service is second to none and we have over 50 years of combined experience fixing appliances and sourcing quality parts. We’re licensed and insured for your peace of mind and we offer both weekday and weekend appointments for your convenience. We also offer a one-year warranty on all parts. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us!