FAQ
Appliance Repair Questions From San Jose Homeowners
Straight answers on fees, estimates, warranties and safety, so you know what to expect before the repair company arrives.
Calling and getting connected
What should I have ready before I call?
The brand, the model number if you can find it, what the appliance is doing, any code on the display, and your ZIP code. The model number is usually on a label inside the door, along the door frame, on the back panel or under the cooktop. A photo of that label on your phone saves reading it out.
Who answers the phone?
Your call is routed to an independent local repair company that has told us it covers your area and works on your type of appliance. San Jose Appliance Care doesn't send technicians itself.
How the referral worksCan a technician come today?
Sometimes. It depends on the company, the day and whether a part has to be ordered. Ask when you are connected rather than assuming, and if the fridge is warming up, ask what they suggest for your food in the meantime.
I rent. Should I call a repair company myself?
Check your lease first and tell your landlord or property manager. Appliances supplied with a rental are often the owner's responsibility, and a repair you book yourself may not be reimbursed. If the landlord asks you to arrange it, get their approval of the estimate in writing.
Prices, estimates and paperwork
What is a diagnostic or service-call fee?
It is what a repair company charges to come out and find the fault. California lets a registered repair dealer charge a reasonable diagnostic fee as long as you are told the amount before the home visit. Ask whether it is credited toward the repair if you go ahead.
Appliance repair cost guideThe final bill is higher than the estimate. Is that allowed?
Not without your consent. Under California Business and Professions Code section 9844, a registered service dealer must give you a written estimate before repairing and cannot charge above it for parts or labor unless you agreed to the extra first. Keep the written estimate.
How do I check that a repair company is registered?
Search its name or registration number on the Bureau of Household Goods and Services license search. The result shows whether the Electronic and Appliance Repair Dealer registration is current and lists any disciplinary action.
Is it worth repairing an older appliance?
Often, but not always. Age, the price of the part and how the appliance has been treated all matter, and built-in brands follow different math from mainstream ones. The repair-or-replace guide walks through the numbers.
Repair or replace guideBrands, warranties and error codes
My appliance is under the manufacturer warranty. Should I call you?
Call the manufacturer first. Warranty repairs usually go through the brand's own authorized service, and an outside repair could leave you paying for work the warranty covers. Once the warranty is over, a local repair company that works on the brand is a good option.
Does every repair company work on Sub-Zero, Wolf or Thermador?
No. Built-in and pro-style appliances need brand-specific parts and experience, so say the brand when you call and the call goes to a company that handles it. If factory authorization matters to you, ask the company directly.
Sub-Zero repairMy washer is showing a code. What does it mean?
Most codes point to a category of problem, such as drainage, water supply, an unbalanced load or a door lock, not a specific failed part. Look it up for your brand, try the simple check listed, and note the exact code for the technician if it comes back.
Error code librarySafety while you wait
I smell gas near my range or dryer. What do I do?
Leave the house straight away without switching lights or appliances on or off, and once you are a safe distance away call 911, then report it to PG&E. Don't use a gas appliance again until the leak has been dealt with.
Water is leaking from the washer or dishwasher. What first?
Stop the cycle, unplug the appliance if you can reach the plug without standing in water, and turn off its water supply valve. Then soak up the water to protect floors and anything below. Tell the repair company where the water appeared, since the location narrows down the cause.
Question not answered here?
Call and ask. If it's about a specific appliance, have the brand and model number ready.