When you buy a new set of appliances, appliance repair is the last thing you want to think about. You did your research, bought a trusted brand, and chose units that fit your needs and your kitchen. Nothing should go wrong for years, right? Most of the time that’s true. But problems with new appliances do happen, and how you handle delivery, installation and the first year makes a big difference.
Understand Your Manufacturer’s Warranty
Most manufacturers cover a new appliance for 1 year for defects in parts and labour.
The reason for the one-year term is that manufacturing defects usually show up in the first year of use. After that, problems are more often linked to wear, misuse or lack of maintenance. Some brands offer longer coverage on specific parts, such as compressors or motors, so read your warranty card and keep it with your receipt.
Many appliance stores no longer run their own service departments, so warranty claims are often handled directly with the manufacturer. That can feel inconvenient, but don’t give up on service you’re entitled to. Register your appliance with the manufacturer, keep the model and serial numbers handy, and contact them as soon as you notice a problem within the warranty period.
Inspect Your Delivery Carefully
When your new appliance arrives, examine it before the delivery crew leaves:
- Confirm it’s the right model, size and colour.
- Check for dents, scratches and damaged packaging, and photograph any damage.
- Open the doors and drawers to check for broken shelves or bins.
- Read the installation instructions before plugging it in.
Some appliances ship with transit bolts, brackets or foam blocks that protect moving parts. Front-load washers are the best-known example. Running the appliance with these still in place can cause serious damage.
New Appliance Installation: Get It Right From Day One
If professional installation is offered with delivery, it’s usually worth it. A properly installed appliance avoids many of the problems we’re called to fix. A good installation makes sure:
- The appliance is level on the floor
- It has enough clearance from the wall for airflow
- The dishwasher is hooked up to water properly and the drain hose is routed and secured correctly
- The fridge water line is connected properly without kinks or leaks
- All shipping stoppers and bolts are removed before operation
- The manufacturer’s setup instructions are followed
That way you know there’s no damage before or as a result of setup, and the unit is ready for many years of trouble-free work. Read more in our article on new appliance setup.
When to Call the Manufacturer Right Away
- The wrong appliance was delivered
- There are dents or scratches from delivery
- The appliance won’t turn on, or makes unusual noise
- You see signs of malfunction during the first test run, such as error codes, leaks or no heating or cooling
Report these problems promptly and keep a record of who you spoke with and when.
Common Problems We See With New Appliances
- Washer shaking or walking: often caused by shipping bolts left in or an unlevel floor
- Dishwasher not draining or leaking: often a kinked drain hose, incorrect hose connection or poor levelling
- Fridge ice maker or dispenser not working: often the water line isn’t connected, is kinked or hasn’t been flushed
- Dryer taking too long: usually an old, crushed or overly long vent from the previous dryer
- Oven not reaching temperature: check the temperature with an oven thermometer before assuming the oven is faulty
Keep Your New Appliances Running Longer
Regular cleaning and maintenance matter from day one. Degreasing the stovetop, vacuuming fridge coils, cleaning the dishwasher filter and emptying the dryer lint screen after every load are all easy DIY jobs. Have the dryer vent professionally cleaned periodically. See our appliance maintenance tips for a full checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call if my new appliance breaks under warranty?
Start with the manufacturer’s customer service line. They’ll arrange warranty service. Have your model number, serial number and proof of purchase ready.
What happens after the warranty ends?
Repairs are then your responsibility. An independent technician can repair most problems with all major brands. Read our article on extended warranties if you’re deciding whether to buy extra coverage.
Is professional installation really necessary?
It’s not required for every appliance, but it reduces the risk of leaks, vibration damage and gas or electrical issues, especially for dishwashers, gas ranges and fridges with water lines.
Out of Warranty? I-Fix Appliance Repair Can Help
If your appliance is out of warranty or you need help diagnosing a problem, contact us. I-Fix Appliance Repair fixes washers, dishwashers, fridges, dryers and ovens across Toronto. Call 647-642-1212, 7am to 10pm, seven days a week.