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What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an Appliance Technician in Fort Wayne?

Having a professional repair your appliance can help prevent further damage. When choosing a Fort Wayne appliance repair service, it is important to consider their specialization. These individuals have at least one of the four specializations, and this includes:

• Brand/product-specific repair: These technicians can handle various appliances made by particular brands such as Whirlpool, Maytag, and Frigidaire.
• Appliance-specific repair: Regardless of the appliance manufacturer, appliance-specific technicians in Fort Wayne focus on repairing a specific type of appliance.
• Energy source-based repair: These technicians fix appliances that consume a specific fuel or power source, such as gas, electric, or dual/hybrid).
• Commercial repair: These technicians focus on major appliances that are used in industrial and commercial settings, such as freezers, refrigerators, and ovens.

Below is a list of the average lifespans of various commonly used home appliances. Note that the model, type, and usage of the appliance all have an impact on its lifespan and its durability:

• Refrigerators: 10 – 13
• Freezers: 10 -15
• Washing Machines: 9 - 10
• Dryers: 10 – 13
• Dishwashers: 8 – 10
• Microwave Ovens: 8 – 10
• Ranges/Oven Hoods: 10 – 16
• Garbage Disposers: 10 – 12
• Trash Compactors: 6 – 7
• Room AC Units: 9 - 11
• Dehumidifiers: 7 - 8

Different scenarios can lead to calling a professional for appliance repairs in Fort Wayne, including but not limited to the following:

• Burning smells from the appliance
• Unexplainable moisture in or around the appliance
• Noticeable increase in energy consumption when using the appliance
• General appliance malfunctions

Are You Licensed as an Appliance Repair Technician in Fort Wayne?

Appliance repair technicians who offer repair services in Fort Wayne do not need to obtain a state or city-issued occupational license. However, technicians who handle repairs of appliances like heating, ventilation, refrigeration, and air conditioning units must obtain a license from the Allen County Building Department before doing so. This department offers different licensing classifications based on the applicant's level of experience and the scope of their services:

• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Duct Systems Journeyman License: This will allow the technician to install, alter, maintain, or repair duct and HVAC appliances under the supervision of a Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Duct Systems Supervisors Licensee.
• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Duct Systems Supervisor License: This will allow the technician to maintain, alter, or repair HVAC and duct systems and equipment and supervise these HVAC works.
• Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Duct Systems Contractor License: This will allow technicians to maintain, alter, or repair HVAC and duct appliances. Applicants must have a good HVAC and Duct System Supervisors License or employ someone who possesses one.

Appliance repair technicians who intend to deal in freezers, refrigerators, and other such appliances that contain refrigerants must obtain Section 608 certification from an EPA-approved organization. Always confirm the licensing status of your preferred appliance repair technician if they will be handling your HVAC and duct system repairs in Fort Wayne. You can verify by contacting the Allen County Building Department at (260) 449-7131.

What Rates Do You Charge for Appliance Repairs in Fort Wayne?

Appliance repair technicians in Fort Wayne charge $60 to $450 or higher for total expenses and an average hourly labor fee of around $30 to $100. However, the actual costs of their services are determined by various factors such as:

• The nature of the problem
• The urgency of the situation
• The cost of replacement parts
• The type, brand, and model of the appliance
• Your chosen technician's expertise and local reputation

Below is a list of cost estimates for repairing common appliances in Fort Wayne:

Before hiring a professional appliance repair technician in Fort Wayne, we recommend comparing cost estimates from multiple technicians. This helps avoid hiring dishonest and fraudulent technicians. However, before they provide their estimates, ensure they inspect and diagnose your appliance (Note that you may be charged a diagnosis fee for this service). You should get a written estimate from the technician to authorize their work before it starts.

Are You Certified by the Manufacturer to Repair This Appliance?

Hiring factory-authorized or certified technicians is important when looking for a Fort Wayne appliance repair service. These professionals have the skills and authorization to perform specialized repair services on products made by appliance manufacturers. Hiring them provides you with various benefits, such as:

• Access to authentic parts, technical and administrative support from appliance manufacturers
• More skilled in handling various brand-specific repairs than non-certified individuals.
• Guarantee that existing warranties on your appliance will not be voided.

However, if you do not find a factory-authorized technician who can handle your appliance repair needs, consider hiring professionals certified by reputable associations like the International Society of Electronics Technicians and the United Appliance Servicers Association.

Do You Replace Parts with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts?

When hiring a Fort Wayne appliance repair technician, asking them about the type of parts they plan on using for the job is essential. There are two main types of parts for appliances: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and generic ones. The OEM parts refer to components made by the original equipment manufacturer. In contrast, the generic is made by third parties not typically affiliated with the manufacturer. While it is more expensive to buy OEM parts, they are usually of better quality. They are more durable, making these the ideal choice for most repairs. In addition, using these parts ensures that your appliance's existing warranty won't be voided.

However, in certain cases, a technician may need to use generic components for repairs if they cannot access the manufacturer's OEM parts. This usually happens with discontinued products, and the technician must ensure they inform you before starting repairs on your appliance. Nevertheless, ensure to get written warranties covering the repairs and parts to be used on the appliance, irrespective of whether generic or OEM parts will be used.

Will My Home Warranty Cover the Cost of Repairing the Appliance?

A home warranty is a service agreement that covers replacing or repairing household appliances prone to malfunction due to normal wear and tear. Unlike home insurance, which covers losses and damages to your home and personal property, home warranties cover certain appliances, such as ovens, microwaves, and washing machines. Home warranties provide coverage for one year and can be renewed annually.

While some home warranties may cover the malfunction of certain appliances because of improper repairs or poor maintenance, this will not be the case with appliance malfunctions and breakdowns caused by pre-existing faults, misuse, or improper installation. Before signing a home warranty contract, it is important that you thoroughly understand its terms and conditions.

Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Fort Wayne Appliance Technician?

Although there are no specific insurance requirements for Fort Wayne appliance technicians, it is still essential they carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance for their employees, if any. Hiring an insured appliance repair technician can help protect you financially in case of any property damage or bodily injuries during the repair services.

Hence, before hiring a Fort Wayne appliance repair technician, confirm they have adequate insurance coverage by requesting a copy of their insurance certificate. Ensure you validate the certificate with the issuing insurance provider.