Electronics Repair: Quick Tips and Common Fixes

If a dishwasher stops washing, a hob won’t heat, or the boiler makes strange noises, you’re probably wondering what to do next. The good news is that many of these problems have simple solutions you can try before calling a technician. Below you’ll find straightforward steps for the most common electronic appliances in a UK home.

When to Call a Pro and When DIY Makes Sense

First, ask yourself how comfortable you are with electricity and whether the appliance is still under warranty. If any repair involves opening a sealed unit, dealing with gas, or replacing a major component like a control board, it’s safer to let a qualified repairer handle it. Trying to fix a gas‑connected oven yourself can be dangerous and may void insurance.

On the other hand, tasks such as resetting an electric hob, cleaning a dishwasher filter, or swapping a faulty heating element in an oven are often doable with basic tools. The key is to turn off the power at the socket or breaker, follow the manufacturer’s safety advice, and work methodically.

Top Issues You Can Tackle Today

1. Electric hob won’t heat. Start by checking the safety lock switch – many hobs have a lock feature that disables heating. If the lock is off, inspect the element for visible damage. A loose connection can be tightened with a screwdriver. If the element looks burnt, you’ll need a replacement part, which is usually inexpensive.

2. Hot water heater keeps tripping the reset. This often means the thermostat is faulty or the heating element is shorted. Turn off the power, drain a few litres of water to lower the pressure, and test the element with a multimeter. Replace the element if it shows no continuity.

3. Dishwasher is noisy or won’t drain. Remove the bottom rack and clean the pump and filter. Food debris is a common cause of drainage problems. Give the pump a quick spin with a brush; if it’s still blocked, the pump may need a swap.

4. Refrigerator runs constantly or makes loud bangs. Clean the condenser coils at the back – dust reduces efficiency and forces the fridge to work harder. Also, check the door seals; a torn gasket lets cold air escape and makes the compressor work overtime.

5. Oven temperature is off. Use an oven thermometer to see how far the actual temperature deviates from the set point. If it’s more than 20 °C off, the temperature sensor (thermistor) is likely the culprit. Replacing it restores accurate heating.

These fixes cover about 70 % of the calls we get at Wells Appliance Repairs. If you try the steps and the problem persists, it’s time to call a professional. Our technicians arrive fully stocked, diagnose quickly, and can often repair on the first visit, saving you the cost of a full replacement.

Remember, safety always comes first. When in doubt, shut the power off, read the manual, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. With the right approach, many electronic appliance hiccups can be sorted out without a big expense.