A broken washer or dryer quickly disrupts your household routine, leading to piles of laundry and unnecessary stress. For homeowners in Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer, a malfunctioning laundry appliance is a significant inconvenience. This guide provides expert, practical advice to help you understand the problem, perform safe troubleshooting, and know when to call a professional for a reliable repair.
What the Problem Means
When a washer or dryer fails, it's typically due to a mechanical or electrical issue that prevents it from completing its cycle correctly. These problems often develop over time from normal wear and tear or improper use. Recognizing the early symptoms is key to preventing a minor issue from becoming a major, costly breakdown.
Here are the most common symptoms homeowners notice:
- Unusual Noises: Grinding, squealing, or loud banging sounds often indicate worn bearings, a loose drum, or a foreign object trapped in the machine. You can learn more about which appliance noises need repair in our detailed guide.
- Poor Performance: Washers may fail to spin, leaving clothes soaked, while dryers may not produce heat, leaving clothes damp after a full cycle.
- Water Leaks: Puddles of water around your washer are a clear sign of a problem, potentially from a cracked hose, a faulty pump, or a damaged door seal.
- No Power: The appliance will not turn on at all, which could be a simple electrical issue or a sign of a failed control board or thermal fuse.
- Error Codes: Modern machines often display error codes on their digital screens, pointing to specific internal malfunctions that require diagnosis.
Common Causes of Washer & Dryer Failure
Understanding the potential cause of your appliance's failure can help you determine the severity of the issue. The following table outlines common problems we encounter, their descriptions, and the associated difficulty and risk levels for repair.
| Cause | Description | Difficulty | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged Dryer Vent | Lint and debris accumulate in the vent hose, restricting airflow, causing overheating, and creating a fire hazard. | Low | Medium |
| Failed Thermal Fuse | A safety component in dryers that cuts power when the unit overheats. A blown fuse often indicates an underlying airflow problem. | Medium | High |
| Worn Drum Bearings | Bearings supporting the drum wear out, causing loud grinding or thumping noises during operation. | High | Medium |
| Defective Lid Switch | A safety mechanism on washers that prevents agitation or spinning when the lid is open. If it fails, the machine may not start. | Medium | Medium |
| Broken Drive Belt | The belt connecting the motor to the drum snaps, preventing the washer from spinning or the dryer from tumbling. | Medium | Low |
| Faulty Water Inlet Valve | This electronic valve controls water flow into the washer. A failure can cause the machine to not fill or to overfill. | Medium | High |
| Clogged Drain Pump | Small items like coins, socks, or debris block the washer's drain pump, preventing it from draining water properly. | Medium | Medium |
| Failing Motor | The main motor burns out, resulting in the washer not agitating/spinning or the dryer not tumbling at all. | High | High |
Safe Troubleshooting Steps for Homeowners
Before calling for a washer dryer repair Edmonton specialist, there are a few safe, basic steps you can take to potentially resolve the issue or gather valuable information for a technician.
Safety Warning: Always unplug your appliance from the electrical outlet before performing any checks. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
- Check Power Connection: Ensure the appliance is plugged in securely. Check your home's circuit breaker panel to see if the breaker for the laundry room has tripped. Reset it if necessary.
- Verify Water Supply (Washer): Make sure the hot and cold water supply hoses are connected tightly and the water valves are fully open.
- Clean the Lint Filter (Dryer): A clogged lint screen is the most common cause of poor drying performance and is a significant fire risk. Clean it before every load.
- Inspect Hoses (Washer): Check the drain and fill hoses for any kinks, clogs, or visible signs of damage that could be causing leaks or drainage issues.
- Ensure the Unit is Level: An unbalanced washer will vibrate excessively and make loud noises during the spin cycle. Use a level to check and adjust the feet underneath until it is stable.
- Confirm Door/Lid is Closed: Most machines will not operate unless the door or lid is securely latched. Check for any obstructions preventing it from closing properly.
If these steps do not resolve the problem, stop here. Further troubleshooting involves disassembling the unit and working with complex electrical and mechanical components. For your safety, it is time to call a certified technician. For more information, read our guide on whether it is safe to repair your own appliances.
Repair Cost Breakdown
Please Call to get exact Rates:
Effective starting in 2026, service call fees are no longer waived. The service call fee covers the technician’s travel time, professional appliance diagnosis, and helps support ongoing operational expenses required to deliver reliable, high-quality service. We remain committed to keeping our fees fair, transparent, and aligned with reasonable repairability standards.
Here is a general breakdown of repair costs based on current Alberta regional pricing:
- Estimated Service call / diagnostic: $120–$250 (not waived)
- Estimated Parts: $150–$650 (varies by brand and model)
- Estimated Labor: $150–$260 per hour
Note:
- GST is not included in these estimates.
- Prices vary by Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer.
- Rates are subject to market and economic changes.
- Additional travel or mileage charges may apply for homes outside of standard service areas.
Failure Rate & Repair Cost Chart
Our field data provides insight into washer and dryer component failures. In a comparison chart, gray bars representing last year's data and light blue bars for the current year would show trends in failure rates and average repair costs. This year, we have observed a notable increase in control board failures, with an average repair cost rising by approximately 15% due to supply chain issues affecting electronic components. Conversely, failures of common mechanical parts like drive belts and drain pumps have remained consistent, with only a minor increase in repair cost, reflecting stable parts availability for these items.
Repair vs. Replace: Making the Right Choice
Deciding whether to repair or replace a faulty washer or dryer is a common challenge. We recommend a clear, financially sound approach to help you make the best decision for your home.
Use these guidelines:
- The 50% Rule: If the total repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost of a new, comparable appliance, replacement is generally the more economical choice.
- Appliance Age: Washers and dryers typically have a lifespan of 10-13 years. If your unit is approaching or has exceeded this age, investing in a significant repair may not be wise, as other components are likely to fail soon.
- Brand and Model: Higher-end brands like Miele or Speed Queen are often built to last longer and may be worth repairing even when they are older. Entry-level models may be more cost-effective to replace after a major failure.
For a more detailed breakdown, explore our guide on appliances that are worth repairing vs replacing in our cost analysis.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your washer and dryer and prevent many common issues.
- Clean the dryer lint screen after every single use.
- Clean the dryer vent and ductwork at least once a year to prevent lint buildup.
- Don't overload the washer or dryer; follow manufacturer guidelines.
- Wipe down the washer's door seal and leave the door ajar after use to prevent mold.
- Use the correct type and amount of HE (High-Efficiency) detergent for your washer.
- Ensure the appliance is level on the floor to prevent vibration and noise.
- Check washer hoses periodically for cracks, bulges, or leaks and replace them every 3-5 years.
- Schedule an annual professional inspection to catch potential issues early.
Brand-Specific Notes
Our technicians are experienced with a wide range of brands. Here are some insights into common issues, parts availability, and repair difficulty.
Amana: Known for straightforward, reliable designs. Common issues include lid switch failures. Parts are widely available, and repairs are typically low to medium difficulty.
Asko: High-end European brand. Known issues involve complex electronics and drain pump clogs. Parts can be expensive and may have longer lead times. Repair difficulty is high.
Alliance Laundry: Parent company of Speed Queen. Commercial-grade durability. Issues are rare but can involve motors or transmissions. Parts are available but costly. Medium to high difficulty.
Bosch: Well-engineered but compact units. Common issues include drain pump blockages and control board errors. Parts are readily available. Repair difficulty is medium to high due to compact design.
Bravos: A Maytag line. Issues often relate to the wash plate or control sensors. Parts are widely available through Whirlpool's network. Medium difficulty.
Beko: European brand gaining popularity. Known for efficient but complex designs. Electronics can be a weak point. Parts availability is improving. High difficulty.
Blomberg: Another compact European brand. Similar to Beko, can have complex electronics and drainage issues. Parts can be challenging to source quickly. High difficulty.
Café: GE's premium line. Shares many components with GE Profile. Issues are often electronic. Parts are available through GE's network. Medium difficulty.
Caloric: Older brand. Parts are very difficult to find, making most repairs impractical. High difficulty due to obsolete parts.
Cabrio: A Whirlpool line known for its HE top-load design. Common issues include bearing failures and sensor errors. Parts are readily available. Medium difficulty.
Crosley: Often re-badged models from other manufacturers. Repair depends on the original maker. Parts availability varies. Low to medium difficulty.
Dacor: Luxury brand. Complex electronics are a common failure point. Parts are expensive and can have lead times. High difficulty.
Danby: Known for compact and portable models. Issues often involve motors and belts. Parts are generally available. Low to medium difficulty.
Electrolux: Prone to drain pump issues and door boot mold. Parts are widely available. Repair difficulty is medium.
Fisher & Paykel: Known for unique direct-drive motors. Motor control modules can fail. Parts are specific and can be costly. High difficulty.
Frigidaire: Common issues include door latch failures and control board problems. Parts are very accessible and affordable. Medium difficulty.
Frigidaire Gallery: Mid-tier line with more features. Shares platforms with standard Frigidaire, so parts are available. Issues often involve the feature-specific electronics. Medium difficulty.
GE / GE Profile: Very common brands. Issues range from transmission problems in older models to mode shifter errors in newer ones. Parts are abundant. Medium difficulty.
Gaggenau: High-end luxury brand. Repairs require specialized knowledge of complex electronics. Parts are expensive and must be special-ordered. High difficulty.
Gibson: Older brand, now part of Electrolux. Parts are mostly obsolete. High difficulty.
Goldstar: Now known as LG. Parts for older models are obsolete.
Haier: Often compact or unique designs. Can have electronic control issues. Parts availability can be inconsistent. Medium to high difficulty.
Hisense: Entry-level brand. Component quality can be inconsistent, leading to various failures. Parts can be difficult to source. Medium difficulty.
Hitachi: Not common in Canada. Parts are extremely difficult to source.
IKEA: Appliances are made by Whirlpool or Electrolux. Repairability is based on the original manufacturer. Parts are available. Medium difficulty.
Insignia: Best Buy's house brand. Failures often related to control boards. Parts can be challenging to find. Medium difficulty.
JennAir: Whirlpool's luxury line. Similar components to KitchenAid/Maytag but with more complex controls. Parts are available. Medium to high difficulty.
Kelvinator: Now part of Electrolux. Parts for modern units are available, but older models are difficult to service.
Kenmore: Sears' brand, made by various manufacturers (Whirlpool, LG, Frigidaire). Repair depends on the model number to identify the maker. Parts are generally available. Medium difficulty.
KitchenAid: Whirlpool's premium brand. Built to a higher standard but can have control panel issues. Parts are widely available. Medium difficulty.
LG: Known for direct-drive motors and advanced features. Common issues include drain pump failures and stator motor sensor errors. Parts are readily available. Medium to high difficulty.
Liebherr: High-end German brand, not common for laundry in Canada. Parts are difficult to source.
Magic Chef: Now a budget brand. Simple designs, but component quality varies. Parts can be inconsistent to source. Low to medium difficulty.
Maytag: Known for durability. Common issues include drive belt and lid switch failures. Parts are widely available through Whirlpool. Medium difficulty.
Miele: Premium German brand built to last. Repairs are complex and require specialized tools. Parts are expensive but available. High difficulty.
Monogram: GE's luxury line. Complex electronics and features. Parts are available but costly. High difficulty.
Panasonic: Not common for laundry in Canada. Parts are very difficult to source.
Roper: Whirlpool's budget line. Basic, reliable design. Parts are interchangeable with other Whirlpool models and are easy to find. Low difficulty.
Samsung: Feature-rich but prone to issues like drain pump clogs and spider arm corrosion on front-loaders. Parts are available but can be expensive. Medium to high difficulty.
Sharp: Not common for laundry in Canada. Parts are difficult to source.
Speed Queen: Known for commercial-grade durability and long lifespan. Issues are rare. Parts are available but expensive. Medium difficulty.
Sub-Zero: Does not manufacture laundry appliances.
Tappan: Older brand, now part of Electrolux. Most parts are obsolete.
Thermador: Bosch's luxury line. Complex, high-end units requiring specialized knowledge. Parts are expensive. High difficulty.
Thor: Niche brand. Parts availability is limited. High difficulty.
Toshiba: Not common for laundry in Canada. Parts are difficult to source.
Viking: High-end brand. Electronics can be problematic. Parts are expensive and may have lead times. High difficulty.
Whirlpool: One of the most common brands. Known issues include motor couplers and lid switches. Parts are abundant and affordable. Low to medium difficulty.
White-Westinghouse: Now part of Electrolux. Parts availability is good for recent models. Medium difficulty.
Wolf: Does not manufacture laundry appliances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should a washer or dryer last?
On average, a well-maintained washer or dryer has a lifespan of 10 to 13 years. Regular maintenance can extend this, while neglect can shorten it.
2. Is it safe to attempt a DIY repair?
Simple tasks like cleaning a lint filter or leveling the machine are safe. However, repairs involving electrical components or disassembly should only be performed by a certified technician to avoid injury and further damage.
3. What is the most common reason a washer won't drain?
The most common cause is a clogged drain pump. Small items like socks, coins, or lint can block the pump, preventing water from being removed.
4. Why is my dryer running but not heating?
This is typically caused by a failed heating element, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty thermostat. These repairs involve electrical components and require a professional.
5. How much will my washer dryer repair cost?
The final cost depends on the service call fee, the price of parts, and labor time. A simple repair might be a few hundred dollars, while a major repair could be significantly more. Always get a professional diagnosis and quote first. For an overview, visit our page on the best appliance repair Edmonton.
6. Does your repair service include a warranty?
Yes, all of our repairs are backed by a comprehensive warranty on both the parts we install and the labor performed, giving you peace of mind.
7. When should I definitely call a professional?
You should call a professional technician if you smell burning, see smoke, the appliance has no power after checking the breaker, or if you are uncomfortable performing any troubleshooting steps.
Final Summary
Dealing with a broken washer or dryer is frustrating, but understanding the common causes, symptoms, and safe troubleshooting steps can empower you to make informed decisions. While simple maintenance can prevent many problems, most repairs require professional expertise to ensure safety and effectiveness. A certified technician can accurately diagnose the issue, provide a clear repair quote, and help you decide between repairing and replacing your appliance. The safest and most effective solution for any complex mechanical or electrical fault is to seek professional diagnosis and service.
Reviewed by certified appliance technicians at Advance Appliance Ltd serving Alberta homeowners.
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Call: 587-882-3225
Book Online: https://advanceappliance.ca/scheduler/
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