The housing market in Maple Ridge is heating up fast, with some homes selling the day they hit the market. While it may be tempting to put in an offer with no conditions, most experts would still stress the importance of a home inspection before closing on a sale. And one of the most forgotten items you want to have checked? The home’s appliances.
The average home comes with nearly a dozen major appliances, which equates to several thousand dollars or more in equipment. And that’s money you could be out of pocket on appliances repair in Maple Ridge if you find issues after you move into a new home. So, in addition to inspecting a home’s roof and foundation, your home inspection should also include the following major appliances:
Fridge
A refrigerator has an average life expectancy of about 14 years. However, that figure depends largely on the brand and how well the appliance has been maintained. Common problems with refrigerators include:
- Water leaks
- A buildup of ice
- Noise from the fan
- Fridge/freezer keeping food too cold or not cold enough
- Issues with the water dispenser
Range
A good quality range should be able to last around 13 years, depending on care. Issues to look out for include:
- Uneven oven temperature,
- Elements or burners that won’t turn on or off
- Problems with the ignitor
- Electrical issues
Ranges are not the most expensive appliance repair, and unlike a fridge or freezer, a broken oven won’t spoil an entire food shop. So, as long as the issue is identifiable and not a major defect, you should be able to have it fixed quite easily.
Hood
You never want to wake up to the smell of last night’s cooking. Your home inspector should verify that the hood vent or above range microwave vent is functioning adequately.
Dishwasher
Dishwashers have a wide variance in life expectancy, depending on brand and maintenance, anywhere from 9 to 12 years. Common problems with dishwashers include:
- Poor cleaning
- Residue
- Odor
- Draining issues
- Not drying dishes well enough
Many of these problems can simply be remedied with a thorough cleaning, but others may require appliances repair in Maple Ridge.
Microwave
Many people neglect the microwave because it may not appear to be a major appliance; however, with a quality microwave costing hundreds of dollars, you still want to know it is working before you buy.
Washing Machine
For families, the washing machine may be one of the most essential appliances in the home, and being without one, even for a short period, could be a major headache. Washing machines typically last about 10 years before needing to be replaced, so it’s always wise to check the appliance’s age if you can. Frequently occurring problems with washing machines include:
- Washer not draining
- Water leaks
- Spin cycle not completing
- Excessive bouncing
- A bad smell, particularly with front load machines
Dryer
A dryer should last around 10 years if well cared for. Common problems with dryers include:
- Noise
- Lack of heat
- Drum that won’t tumble
Dryers are not the most expensive appliance to repair, but as a general rule, if a repair will cost more than 50% of the replacement value of an appliance, it may be wise to consider buying new.
If your home inspector has found issues with any of your home’s appliances, it is not a signal to cancel a contract, home appliances repair in Maple Ridge is readily available. But by having the appliances inspected, you can at least be sure of what to expect and make the appropriate financial provisions, so there are no surprises after you move in.
