Get Quotes from Top Appliance Repair Services in Lincoln, NE

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Appliance Repair Service in Lincoln

While summers in Lincoln are short and comfortable, the winters are long, windy, and cold. Though residents will need all their home appliances in any season, they depend more on appliances like boilers, stoves, and heaters to keep warm during the winter. Occasionally, any appliance will break down because of usage or poor maintenance. A prompt repair will prevent the fault from developing into major damage that may require an expensive replacement. Thankfully, you will find qualified home appliance repairers in the city who can any kind of fault.

However, before you hire an appliance repair expert in Lincoln, it is wise to ask them the following questions:

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

Regarding appliance repair in Lincoln, skilled technicians are the best choice for handling broken household appliances. These professionals are well-versed in repairing and maintaining various appliances, including refrigerators, water dispensers, washing machines, and dryers. However, their expertise goes beyond general repair work, as they often specialize in specific areas. Here are some notable specializations among appliance repair technicians:

  • Brand: These experts have extensive knowledge and training in repairing appliances from specific manufacturers. Whether it's LG, Binatone, Whirlpool, Kenmore, Frigidaire, or other major appliance companies, they are well-equipped to tackle any issues with these particular brands.
  • Appliances: While some technicians can handle repairs across different appliance types, others specialize in specific categories. This specialization allows them to develop a deep understanding of the intricacies associated with each type of appliance.
  • Energy-Specific: These specialists are highly skilled in repairing appliances that run on specific energy sources. Whether gas-powered appliances, electric models, or even solar-powered systems, they possess the necessary expertise to handle repairs and provide maintenance services tailored to these energy sources. Some technicians are also knowledgeable in hybrid or dual-fuel appliances.
  • Commercial: While most technicians primarily deal with residential appliances, some professionals specialize in commercial equipment in restaurants, industrial kitchens, and other food businesses. These specialists are well-versed in repairing and maintaining large-scale appliances designed for heavy usage in commercial settings.

Below is a list of popular home appliances' typical lifespans (in years):

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

Several factors, including the brand, model, maintenance, and frequency of use, can influence the lifespan and performance of your appliance. If you encounter any of the following issues, regardless of the age of your appliance, it is advisable to seek the expertise of a professional appliance technician in Lincoln:

  • A sudden spike in your energy bills without any apparent explanation
  • Your appliance frequently experiences malfunctions or requires repairs
  • The presence of burning smells or visual signs of burning
  • The accumulation of moisture inside or outside the appliance.
  • You hear strange or loud noises from your appliance.

Are You Licensed as an Appliance Repair Technician in Lincoln?

While Lincoln may not possess specific licensing for the job at hand, it is highly recommended that you opt for an appliance repair specialist with relevant state and federal licenses and certifications. The Environmental Protection Agency's Section 608 Certification is particularly noteworthy. This certification is mandatory for technicians working on, servicing, or maintaining appliances such as refrigerators and freezers that potentially contain refrigerants that could be released into the atmosphere. To obtain this certification, technicians must undergo training from an EPA-approved organization.

In addition, it is advisable to verify that the chosen appliance repairman in Lincoln possesses a valid National Appliance Service Technician Certification (NASTeC). While NASTeC is a voluntary certification available to appliance repair technicians nationwide, it also assures their competence and proficiency in their field. By confirming the possession of these certifications, you can ensure the highest level of expertise and quality service from the appliance repair professional you select.

What Rates Do You Charge for Appliance Repairs in Lincoln?

You should budget between $150 and $700 to fix a broken or malfunctioning appliance in Lincoln, keeping in mind that appliance repair professionals frequently charge between $40 and $95 per hour for work.

  • Accessibility of the appliance
  • Power source for the appliance
  • Price of the required replacement parts
  • Type of application
  • Type of fault
  • The urgency level of the repair

The costs in Lincoln for repairing some typical home appliances are as follows:

Refrigerators:
$60 - $400
Freezers:
$105 - $500
Washers:
$45 - $410
Dryers:
$57 - $400
Room AC Units:
$80 - $98
Stoves/Ovens:
$75 - $412
Cooktops:
$80 - $380
Microwaves:
$103 - $115
Dishwashers:
$106 - $122
Garbage Disposals:
$284 - $359
Trash Compactors:
$45 - $210
Water Dispensers:
$45 - $325
Ice Makers:
$105 - $240

It is recommended to gather and compare quotes from up to three professionals before deciding on an appliance repair service. This approach will allow you to understand the prevailing prices in your area and safeguard yourself against unscrupulous individuals seeking to exploit your situation. Rather than solely relying on cost considerations, it is imperative to meticulously assess these prospective candidates' credentials, expertise, and local reputation.

Are You Certified by the Manufacturer to Repair This Appliance?

Appliance manufacturers have established a process of approving and certifying repair technicians before labeling them as factory-certified. This distinctive manufacturer's stamp assures these technicians possess the necessary qualifications to undertake intricate and challenging repairs, substantiated by their successful completion of a comprehensive proficiency assessment specifically tailored to the company's products. While the recruitment of such highly skilled repair personnel may entail additional costs, the advantages derived from this investment are manifold and include the following:

  • You can be sure that your repairs will be handled by seasoned and qualified personnel.
  • Your appliance will be fixed with high-quality parts, and you'll have access to genuine replacements as a bonus of your warranty protection.
  • It gives you direct access to the appliance manufacturer's technical support team, ensuring a quick and painless resolution of any issues.

In addition to obtaining factory certification from prominent appliance manufacturers, the appliance repair professionals in Lincoln undergo comprehensive training and certification programs offered by esteemed local trade schools and internationally recognized organizations such as the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET). This multi-faceted approach to professional development ensures that these technicians possess a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of their craft.

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

Select a professional appliance repair specialist in Lincoln who prioritizes using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts when repairing your faulty home appliances. Unlike generic parts manufactured by unrelated companies, OEM components are produced by the original appliance manufacturer, ensuring superior reliability, quality, and compatibility with the appliance itself. While OEM parts may come at a higher cost, their utilization guarantees optimal performance and safeguards any existing appliance warranties, providing an additional layer of protection for your investment.

When considering the replacement of parts for appliances, opting for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts is generally recommended. However, there may be instances where generic alternatives can serve as viable options, particularly for older appliances.

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

Home warranties are contractual agreements designed to cover routine wear and tear on various household appliances, including those commonly found in the kitchen and laundry areas. These warranties typically have a predetermined duration, often one year, and can be renewed annually.

It is important to differentiate between home insurance and home warranties, as they serve distinct purposes. Home insurance protects your property against unforeseen events such as theft, accidents, and natural disasters. On the other hand, a home warranty specifically covers specific systems and appliances, addressing the potential need for maintenance or replacement resulting from normal usage and depreciation over time.

It is vital to have a comprehensive understanding of the extent of coverage provided by a home warranty to make an informed decision. While some home warranties may offer protection against losses resulting from negligent upkeep or repairs, the primary focus of most home warranties is to address appliance issues stemming from normal wear and tear. However, it is important to be mindful that certain damages typically fall outside the scope of coverage. These may include:

  • Any prior problems or malfunctions
  • Damages that arise due to improper or faulty installation o
  • Damages resulting from the misuse, negligence, or improper handling of appliances

Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Lincoln Appliance Technician?

While Lincoln appliance repair professionals don't need to carry insurance, it is essential to prioritize specialists with professional or general liability coverage for their services. Such insurance provides crucial protection in the unfortunate event of accidental damage to your equipment. It is important to note that appliance repair technicians employing two or more individuals must have worker's compensation insurance in place.

To ensure that your repair work is adequately safeguarded, request copies of insurance certificates from any prospective appliance repair provider. Additionally, verifying the authenticity and validity of these documents with the relevant insurance provider is recommended before finalizing any formal agreements.

By prioritizing insured professionals and confirming the coverage of their services, you can mitigate potential risks and ensure that you are protected in case of any unforeseen circumstances during the repair process.

How Do I Resolve Any Issue I Have with Appliance Repair Services in Lincoln?

You can handle complaints about your appliance repair services in Lincoln by calling the Nebraska Attorney General's Office at (402) 471-2682 and (800) 727-6432 or using their online complaint form. You may also mail a completed complaint form to:

Consumer Affairs Response Team
Nebraska Attorney General's Office
2115 State Capitol,
Lincoln, NE 68509