When to Replace an Appliance Part: A Guide to Gaskets, Pumps, Belts & More

Appliances are complex machines with many moving parts, and over time, some of those parts are bound to wear out or fail. When this happens, a full replacement of the appliance isn’t always necessary. In fact, swapping out a single component can often be a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. Knowing when a part needs to be replaced and which parts are best left to a professional is key.

At Star Appliance Repair, we specialize in diagnosing and replacing a wide range of appliance parts for all major brands and models. We offer reliable, in-home appliance repair in Toronto  and throughout the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), ensuring your home’s essentials are running smoothly.

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Common Parts That Wear Out & How to Spot a Problem

Different appliances have different high-wear parts. Here’s a look at some of the most common ones and the signs that they need to be replaced.

1. Gaskets and Seals

What they are: Rubber or plastic seals found on the doors of refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines. They create a watertight or airtight seal when the door is closed.

Signs of a problem:

• Refrigerator: A leaking seal can cause the fridge to run constantly, leading to higher energy bills. You might feel a cool draft coming from the door, or see condensation on the gasket itself.
• Dishwasher/Washer: A damaged gasket is the most common cause of leaks. You’ll see water pooling on the floor in front of the machine.

Why they need replacing: Gaskets and seals become brittle, cracked, or torn over time, losing their ability to create a proper seal. Replacing a gasket can be a straightforward DIY task, but it’s crucial to use the correct part and ensure it’s installed perfectly to prevent leaks.

2. Pumps and Motors

What they are: The motors and pumps that drive the most essential functions of your appliances. This includes a washing machine’s drain pump, a dishwasher’s circulation pump, and a dryer’s motor.

Signs of a problem:

• Washing Machine: If your washer isn’t draining, a faulty drain pump is the likely culprit. You may hear a buzzing or humming sound but no water movement.
• Dishwasher: A dishwasher that isn’t cleaning dishes properly might have a failed circulation pump, which is responsible for spraying water over the dishes.
• Dryer: If the dryer drum isn’t spinning, the drive motor or the drive belt has likely failed.

Why they need replacing: These are complex mechanical components that wear out from constant use. While the part itself can be replaced, the repair is often complicated and involves handling electrical connections and heavy components. This is a job best left to a professional.

3. Belts and Bearings

What they are: The internal components that allow for smooth movement. This includes the drive belt in a dryer or washer and the drum bearings in both appliances.

Signs of a problem:

• Dryer/Washer (Belts): A dryer or washer drum that isn’t spinning is a classic sign of a broken drive belt. You may hear the motor humming but see no movement.
• Dryer/Washer (Bearings): Loud, grinding, or thumping noises during the spin cycle often indicate that the drum bearings are failing.

Why they need replacing: Belts and bearings are subject to intense friction and heat. Replacing them requires extensive disassembly of the appliance’s cabinet and drum, and the proper tension and alignment are critical for the repair to be successful.

4. Control Boards and Fuses

What they are: The “brain” and safety components of your appliances. The control board manages all functions, while fuses and thermostats prevent overheating.

Signs of a problem:

• Control Board: An appliance that won’t turn on, has a blank display, or starts cycles but immediately stops could have a failed control board.
• Fuses/Thermostats: A dryer that won’t heat up or a microwave that suddenly stops working could have a blown thermal fuse.

Why they need replacing: These are delicate and sensitive electrical components. They can fail due to power surges, overheating, or simply age. Diagnosing a problem with a control board or fuse can be tricky and requires professional expertise to ensure the correct part is ordered and installed safely.

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DIY or Professional Repair?

While ordering a part online may seem like a simple solution, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. An incorrect part may not fit, or a faulty installation can cause more damage or create a safety hazard.

For complex components like pumps, motors, and control boards, a professional technician has the right tools and training to:

• Accurately diagnose the problem and ensure the right part is ordered.
• Safely handle the electrical components to avoid shock or fire hazards.
• Properly install the new part to guarantee the appliance runs efficiently and safely.

If your appliance is showing signs of a worn-out part, a quick, professional diagnosis is the safest and most reliable way to get it working again.

Don’t hesitate to contact us or call us at (647)-847-8774. We’re here to get your dryer working again in no time.