Consumer Question: Freezer Repair

Hi, Joe,

I have a compact refrigerator and one side of the freezer will not work. It is not getting cold anymore. Do I need to replace this unit?

Thanks,

Billy

A: Hi, Billy,

Thanks for your note.

Your question does not give me a clear picture of what product you have. The kind and model would help. 


In general, the compressor fan motor should be checked as well as the fan motor inside the freezer. Sometimes a defective light switch will cause the light to stay on inside the product and give you a poor cooling condition. Before you send a refrigerator to the appliance graveyard you need to be sure it is not worth repairing. It might require the need of a qualified technician.

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Replacing Wall Oven

Hi, Joe,

I have a 21" Frigidaire electric wall oven, made in the 1960's Model #RE-94-BK. The cut out is 21" x 30" approx. It measures on the outside 23" x 31.5" approx. I need to replace it.  My problem is they don't seem to make this size anymore.  The cut-out is in a BRICK WALL (opposite of a fireplace in the living room).

Is there any brand that you know of that makes these smaller size wall ovens? Someone mentioned looking into an oven made for a yacht.  I also wondered what others have done to replace these ovens. Are there convection ovens that are small that may work in this space?  Thanks for the help!  I sure am STUCK!

Thanks,

Kris

A: Hi, Kris,

Thanks for your note. 

Your problem is a common one across this country. Remodelers are kept busy doing what has to be done and sad to say, you may never find a product of the same size as yesteryear. I would contact a kitchen design company, give them the size requirements and ask what they can do. If anyone can help, they're the guys.

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Replacing Hot Water Heater

Hi, Joe,

I would greatly appreciate hearing your opinion on the tankless water heaters.  We are needing to replace our traditional gas hot water tank, and the plumber is recommending the "new" tankless style.  We are not sure what to think about that style.

Thank you,

Laurie

A: Hi Laurie,

Thanks for your note. 

Please keep in mind that I am not a plumbing expert but my comments come from others who are.


The system is old, especially in other countries where hot water is not used at the rate that we use it in America. It is very expensive and the cost recovery time is too long. Some homeowners have complained that they should have had two of them installed, as the single one couldn't keep up with the demand when heavy usage occurred. There is also a maintenance factor that you will have to perform.


One last factor to consider...I have asked many plumbers if they have one in their home. I have not found one yet.

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Maytag Washer/Dryer Combo

Hi, Joe,

Our Maytag washer/dryer (stacked model - 1986) has performed very well - considering it is 25 years old. Lately, the washer spin cycle doesn't seem to extract as much water as it did earlier. And the dryer sometimes tangles clothes, not allowing thorough drying to occur. Is our faithful Maytag just getting old and tired or is there some remedy we might consider - aside from purchasing a new combo. And if so,what brand/model would you recommend?

Many thanks!
Rob

A: Hi, Rob,

Thanks for your note. 

Your product is the best ever made especially in the stackable category. I believe that you need a roller kit for the motor slide assembly and 2 belts. As for the dryer, the belt may be slipping or the idler assembly is worn causing the drum not to turn fast enough. I do not suggest you replace this product. 

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Top Load Washer

Hi, Joe,

Great show! I like to listen while working.

I need a good top loader washer. I have seen reviews but I remember you said that most of the new washers don't use enough water. Do you have any recommendations? I need a washer that cleans!

Thank you!
A: 

Thanks for your note. 

I like the Speed Queen washer very much. Stop by Heydlauff Appliance in Chelsea. They will give you a crash course on washers.

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Best A/C Available

Hi, Joe,

Is the Infinity Carrier A/C worth the money? I have a 2500 to 2600 sq foot house. What about the SEER rating?

I need new A/C and want to replace furnace at same time.

Thanks for your time,

Tom

A: Hi, Kathleen,

Thanks for your note. 

I'm sure Carrier is a good product, but there are others. I suggest you contact Pat Kelley at Kelley Brothers 734-462-6266 and tell him I asked you to call. I believe he has the best A/C company in the country! His Amana products have the finest warranties available.

Regards,

Joe Gagnon

Consumer Question: Replacing "old" Appliances

Q: Hi, Joe,

We built our home 19 years ago and had new appliances at that time. Other than replacing the microwave and hot water heater, all are still working fine. According to average life of appliances, all of the rest of the appliances should be ready to replace. Do we wait until they die or look to replace sooner even though they seem to work fine? 

Thank you,
Sally

A: Hi, Sally,

Thanks for your note.

Back then they made appliances to last 20 years or more. That is not true today. Now you can expect half the life span of yesteryear! I suggest you keep what you have until a repair bill would be too expensive.

Regards,

Joe Gagnon