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06 Dec

Deciphering Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes

**NOTICE**
Due the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information. 

Bosch dishwashers feature an internal diagnostic system that automatically identifies problems with its various components. This guide reviews the error codes you may encounter and how to resolve for these Bosch models:

GM926710

SHE44C05UC/20

SHE44C06UC/17

SHE46C02UC/17

SHE46C05UC/17

SHE46C05UC/22

SHE46C06UC/17

SHE55M05UC/50

SHE55M05UC/52

SHE55M05UC/53

WFW97HE

SHE56C02UC/17

SHE56C02UC/18

SHE56C05UC/17

SHE56C06UC/17

SHE56C07UC/17

SHI4302

SHI4306

SHI6802

SHI6805

SHI6806

Bosch dishwasher error code E1 or E2

What it means:

Both error codes signify an issue with the temperature sensor or thermistor.

How to fix:

Start by resetting dishwasher: turn it off for five seconds and turn on again. If this doesn’t work, check sensor with multimeter to ensure continuity. If it fails, sensor must be replaced.

Bosch dishwasher error code E3

What it means:

Dishwasher unable to fill with enough water.

How to fix:

Start by turning off water supply and then power. Look for any bends or cracks in water hose to see if it’s blocked or obstructed. Disconnect hose to make sure it’s not blocked. If it is, unblock and then reconnect hose. If hose working correctly, check water inlet valve and replace if necessary.

Bosch dishwasher error code E4

What it means:

Problem with water flow sensor.

How to fix:

Start by resetting your dishwasher by turning it off and then back on after five seconds. If that doesn’t work, the water flow sensor will need to be tested, and if faulty, replaced.

Bosch dishwasher error code E5

What it means:

Dishwasher filling up with too much water. Most common reason is faulty float switch.

How to fix:

Reset dishwasher by turning it off for five seconds and then back on. If this doesn’t work, test float switch for continuity and replace if not working.

Bosch dishwasher error code E6

What it means:

Faulty aqua sensor.

How to fix:

Reset dishwasher by turning it off for five seconds and then back on. If error code still showing, test aqua sensor for continuity. Replace aqua sensor if defective.

Bosch dishwasher error code E9

What it means:

Heating element problem.

How to fix:

Reset dishwasher by turning it off for five seconds and then back on. If this doesn’t work, test heating element for continuity. Replace if not working, and also if it’s cracked or damaged in any way.

Bosch dishwasher error code E15

What it means:

Water leak causing flood sensor to activate.

How to fix:

If no water seen on floor, error code may be mistake. Reset dishwasher by turning it off for five seconds and then back on. If this doesn’t work or water is on floor, find source of  leak, which most likely caused by defective hose or cracked inlet valve or connection.

Bosch dishwasher error code E22

What it means:

Blocked filter causing excess water to build up in sump.

How to fix:

Reset dishwasher by turning it off for five seconds and then back on. If that doesn’t work, remove filter from dishwasher (usually found at bottom of dishwasher). Thoroughly clean filter before returning to unit. Turn appliance off and then on and check code again.

Bosch dishwasher error code E24 or E25

What it means:

Both codes indicate problem with dishwasher drainage system.

How to fix:

Reset dishwasher by turning it off for five seconds and then back on. If that doesn’t work, turn dishwasher on to drainage cycle and listen to sounds made. Humming noise indicates faulty drain pump impeller. Test the part and replace if faulty. If dishwasher not trying to drain at all, drain pump needs to be tested and replaced if defective.

Bosch dishwasher error code H24

What it means:

24-hour delay.

How to fix:

Reset dishwasher by turning it off for three minutes and then back on. Then, press start button for 10 seconds to further reset dishwasher computer. After 10 seconds, error code should disappear and dishwasher ready again.

Special thanks to Fred’s Appliance Academy for this helpful tip.

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06 Dec

CE Tech Tips — December 2022

**NOTICE**
Due to the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information.

LG TV, 60PV25
Reason for Service: Solarized picture.
Solution: Found lots of bad solder on Y & Z sus boards and in power supply. Check and resolder as necessary.

Samsung, LN32C540F2DXZA
Reason for Service: Won’t turn, no functions.
Solution: Discovered bad CM808 in power supply. 018uF/1KV

Samsung PN64D7000
Reason for Service: Splash screen continually cycles.
Solution: Replaced flash chip on main, IC1302. Verify by freeze spraying.

Samsung, UN55D6000DF
Reason for Service: Set won’t start, but has standby light.
Solution: Reflowing BGA on main fixed set. IC1001

Sony TV, RA6 chassis
Reason for Service: Relay clicks, 6 blink error.
Solution: Found shorted D5002 on G board. Replacing fixed set.

Toshiba, 40G300U1
Reason for Service: Power button turns logo on, but nothing else works.
Solution: Replaced 7A fuse on inverter board and Q303.

Toshiba TV, 55SV670U
Reason for Service: Dead set.
Solution: Replacing R850 on power board fixed set. 1.8ohm/5W

Zenith TV, Z50PV220
Reason for Service: Top half of picture missing.
Solution: Replacing lower Y-buffer fixed set.

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05 Dec

PT Holdings Rebrands as Parts Town Unlimited, Announces Leadership and Organizational Changes

New brand and structure will support accelerated growth and innovation

ADDISON, Il., Dec. 5, 2022 – PT Holdings, the parent company of Parts Town, a global leader in high-tech distribution of foodservice equipment parts, residential appliance parts, HVAC parts, and related products, today unveiled its new brand, Parts Town Unlimited. In addition, the company has announced a number of organizational changes to further accelerate growth and innovation. Parts Town Unlimited includes 45 unique brands across multiple divisions with nearly $2 billion in annual revenue and over 4,500 team members worldwide. The group is primarily focused on high-tech distribution of mission-critical replacement parts and related products.

The reorganization will support Parts Town Unlimited’s growth strategy, which includes a rapidly expanding product offering and global reach. The company will continue to emphasize digital leadership, operational excellence, and long-term high integrity partnerships, supported by its relentless focus on core values, people, and culture.

“Many companies include the acronym ‘LLC’ after their name, where the first ‘L’ stands for limited. We are going a different direction and focusing on the unlimited growth potential of our business: we are a town without limits,” said Steve Snower, Town Troublemaker (aka CEO), Parts Town Unlimited. “Over the past 19 years of our growth journey, we have updated our organization structure many times. Updating our brand and implementing these leadership changes will position the business for rapid growth in the coming years. We look forward to an exciting future.”

Overview of Parts Town Unlimited
Parts Town Unlimited includes the following divisions:

  • Parts Town, the technology innovator and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice, residential appliance, and HVAC equipment replacement parts. Also known as “Parts Town Americas,” this divisionprimarily serves the U.S., Canada, and Latin America, along with select customers in other international markets.
  • Red Lightning Group, a division that focuses solely on technology innovation to support the foodservice industry and beyond, serves as an incubator to help innovative “Townspeople” bring their ideas to life. Red Lightning Group developed the technologythat underpins Parts In Town, an ecommerce solution designed to help local service companies and distributors grow their businesses, improve equipment up-time by providing quick pickup and delivery of parts in the foodservice industry, and promotegrowth of genuine OEM part sales locally. Red Lightning Group also developed the Parts Town Marketplace, which provides customers an online, one-stop shopping experience for OEM parts beyond the foodservice category, as well as items and products across a
    variety of new categories, eliminating the need for customers to visit multiple websites to find the parts and related products they need.
  • Parts Town Home, the company’s fastest growing capability, includes residential appliance parts, HVAC parts, and consumer electronics parts primarily through its Encompass brand. Parts Town Home has rapidly grown to represent 15% of Parts Town Unlimited’s 2022 revenue, compared to just 3% in 2021.
  • Parts Town Europe, which serves Europe and other international markets through its REPA Group brands, GEV Group, LF Group, EPGC, Atel, and Big Warehouse. Parts Town Europe includes locations across Europe in addition to a presence in both Australia and China.
  • Parts Town UK, which serves the UK through First Choice and Commercial Catering Spares brands.
  • Unlimited Service Group, which supports several local parts and service companies that partner with leading manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada. Individual, local brands will continue to be emphasized, reflecting the unique histories, cultures, expertise, and local focus of each of these businesses.

Leadership Moves
As part of the reorganization, Steve Snower will be focusing his role on group CEO responsibilities, with Clint Holder appointed to the role of Group President, Parts Town Americas. This will allow Snower to lead Parts Town Unlimited’s strategy, drive the company’s vision for growth and innovation, accelerate its acquisition efforts, and build on its unique culture.

“Clint has done an incredible job building unique, high integrity partnerships across the industry. Under his commercial leadership, we have dramatically expanded our master distribution capability and deepened our partnerships with service companies across the industry,” said Snower. “For the past 19 years, I have played the dual role of group CEO and President of Parts Town, and I am excited to turn the president role over to Clint to lead the business forward, allowing me to focus on building out the group vision.”

John McDonough has been named Chairman of Parts Town Europe. McDonough joined Parts Town Unlimited’s board of directors following Parts Town’s acquisition of Heritage Parts in 2019 and has remained an active advisor to the business. McDonough will now re-engage full-time and relocate to Munich, Germany, to partner with Alex Wiegand, CEO of REPA Group, in accelerating Parts Town Unlimited’s global reach.

“I am so excited that John will be a full-time partner in the business. His integrity and experience are unmatched,” said Snower. “As CEO of Heritage Parts, he led the digital transformation of the business and the full transition to genuine OEM parts. His presence with our team in Europe will make a huge impact.”

Miron Washington has been named Chief Digital Officer. He joins Parts Town Unlimited from Home Depot, where he held the role of Vice President of Customer Experience and General Manager of the company’s $3 billion Quote Center business unit. His previous experience includes digital leadership roles at Amazon, Staples, and Hewlett Packard. Washington will be charged with advancing the digital vision of Parts Town Unlimited.

Several other organization changes were announced, all with the intent to accelerate Parts Town Unlimited’s growth and innovation across its target markets.

About Parts Town Unlimited
Parts Town Unlimited is the global leader in high-tech distribution of mission-critical equipment replacement parts and related products and services for the foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC industries. Guided by its core values of Safety, Integrity, Community, Passion, Courage, and Innovation, Parts Town Unlimited delivers infinite possibilities, unlimited potential, and boundless innovation with a focus on people, innovation, and long-term partnerships. Parts Town Unlimited is an organization without limits, led by dreamers who continuously grow and bring value to our partners and amazing opportunities to our team members around the globe.

About Parts Town
Parts Town is the leading, technology innovation-driven distributor of genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC equipment repair parts. When there’s a hiccup with any piece of equipment, Parts Town is ready to jump in and help with the most in-stock parts on the planet, innovative technology, and an unmatched customer experience. Customized solutions benefit equipment service technicians of all kinds, as well as chain and independent restaurants, schools, health care facilities and hospitality providers.

By partnering with the top manufacturers of foodservice, residential appliance and HVAC replacement parts, Parts Town improves the supply chain, increases sales of genuine OEM parts and keeps every customer’s business running like clockwork. Parts Town also partners with equipment and supplies dealers of all sizes to offer a one-stop-shop through its Parts Town marketplace.

For more information, visit https://www.partstown.com/.

Contact Information
Katie Whorton
katie.whorton@finnpartners.com
404-569-9901

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02 Dec

Encompass Streamlines Midwest Footprint to Advance Growth Strategy

Significant counter sales improvements also underway

Lawrenceville, Ga., November 14, 2022 – Encompass Supply Chain Solutions, a leading national provider of replacement parts and supply chain services for a diverse range of product brands, today announced it is consolidating four distribution facilities clustered in Ohio and Indiana.

These facilities are among 12 appliance parts counter sales and distribution centers previously maintained by Dayton Appliance Parts (DAP), which has merged with Encompass. The consolidating facilities are in Cincinnati; Indianapolis; Dayton, Ohio; and Castleton, Ind. Their operations will be combined with other nearby Encompass facilities in Cincinnati, Dayton and Metropolitan Indianapolis. The company’s Blue Ash, Ohio warehouse is being transitioned to another distributor.

Additionally, the Dayton facility will transition from primarily a distribution center to focus on counter sales and managing major client programs, such parts supply chain management (4PL). The Greenwood, IN facility will also now be a counter sales location. These facilities will be upgraded to provide a highly merchandised customer experience. Encompass existing operations in Florida, New York, Georgia and Nevada will continue operating as normal.

Joe Wang, Encompass chief strategy officer, said the decision to consolidate the specific four locations was based on service area, building condition, employee impact and other criteria. He said employees at the affected facilities have been offered other roles within the business.

“Dayton Appliance was a strong regional supplier, so having multiple locations in close proximity worked well at the time,” said Wang. “However, Encompass is a national parts supplier, so we had to analyze our entire footprint and determine the best way forward in alignment with our overall business goals.”

Wang said one of Encompass’ key objectives is to expand next-day order delivery to customers coast to coast. As such, the company is investing millions of dollars to add more warehouse automated functionality and expedite throughput.

“In our business, customers can’t wait days on end for a part to come in to repair their refrigerators or laptops or heating and cooling units. They must have their critical appliances and electronics working again yesterday. Encompass is working very hard to help speed up the repair cycle through faster parts delivery.”

Encompass President and CEO Robert Coolidge added that Encompass is continuing to experience record transactional volume, which requires the company to stock more inventory in more places. He said the company is evaluating other areas around the country to open new distribution centers.

“We’ve got immense coverage in the Southeast, Northeast and Midwest, enabling us to reach a majority of the U.S. population in two days or less,” said Coolidge. “We are now evaluating other locales to help us extend that reach further,” said Coolidge.

The Appliance parts market remains a driving factor in the company’s growth, as well as a surge in support for major customer segments like Home Warranty, Extended Warranty and Multifamily Property Management. Encompass also manages the parts supply chain for a number of world-leading brands, including Sony, Panasonic, Liebherr, Braun, Philips and others.

With the integration of Dayton Appliance Parts and the backing of Parts Town – Encompass’ parent company and market-leading distributor of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) foodservice parts – the company is even better positioned to support the repair industry, said Coolidge.

“Going into 2023, our 70th year in business, we could not be more excited about where we’re headed. Foremost, we are committed to delivering an exceptional experience for our customers. Everything we do operationally centers around helping our customers be more successful.”

About Encompass Supply Chain Solutions

Formed in 1953, Encompass is one of the country’s largest suppliers of repair parts and accessories for products throughout the home. Encompass also offers complete parts supply chain management, 3PL, depot repair and reverse logistics service. In addition to consumers, we support an array of B2B customers, including manufacturers, multi-family property management, warranty providers, service networks, independent dealers and retailers.

In 2022, Encompass was acquired by Parts Town to expand its residential parts division. For more information, please visit solutions.encompass.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

 

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11 Nov

Pressure Test Sealed System with Nitrogen

**NOTICE**
Due the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information. 

**NOTE: Working on refrigerator sealed systems is considered an advanced repair that should only be performed qualified, professional technicians.**

To check for leaks in sealed refrigeration systems, nitrogen can be used instead of air or water because it’s inert, odorless and has low moisture content.  Following are some basic steps for conducting a pressure test:

  1. Attach the service hose to the process stub on the compressor.
  2. Then, attach the service hose to the regulator on the nitrogen tank.
  3. Turn the nitrogen tank on check the PSI. A brand new tank should have about 2,000.
  4. Deliver nitrogen to the refrigerator by turning the T-handle to the right until reaching about 100 PSI. Turning the handle to the left will decrease pressure or turn it off.
  5. With nitrogen now pressurizing the system, check all joints for leaks. Large leaks should be heard on the suction line, but for smaller leaks, bubble testing is required.
  6. As nitrogen leaves the system and pressure further decreases, bubbles become smaller and smaller. The smaller the leak, the smaller the bubbles.

Please keep in mind when bubble testing, the system should always be pressurized. This helps prevent the solution from being drawn into the sealed system, as well as to show the bubbles.

 

Special thanks to Fred’s Appliance Academy for this helpful tip!

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11 Nov

CE Tech Tips — November 2022

**NOTICE**
Due to the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information.

Samsung TV, HP-T5054
Reason for service: Panel doesn’t prime, but audio okay.
Solution: Replaced two FET’s on Y-board: Q5303 and Q5304. 

Samsung, LNT3232HX/XAA
Reason for Service: Backlights not working, but sound Ok.
Solution: Replaced 4 bad caps in power supply, CM851, CM852, CM856, CM858 and bad fuse F3 on inverter board.

Samsung TV, UN40JU6400
Reason for service: No video or audio and no backlight.
Solution: Found shorted cap off pin 8 of IC304. Just removed cap.

Samsung, UN46H6201AF
Reason for Service: Set has no video, but audio and backlight are okay.
Solution: Replaced  T-Con board.

Sony TV, RA6
Reason for service: Dead set, 6 blink error.
Solution: Found D5004 on G board shorted.

Toshiba TV, 32TL515U
Reason for Service: No audio.
Solution: Reflowing BGA on main restored audio. IC100

Vizio, E550VL
Reason for Service: Has amber logo, but won’t turn on.
Solution: Replacing IC U14 fixed set.

Vizio TV, E422VA
Reason for service: No video or audio.
Solution: Reflowing BGA on main fixed set. U401

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25 Oct

Evolution of Parts Distribution

It’s said the only constant in life is change – a sentiment that is certainly a given in the business world.  Companies form, merge with others or disappear for lack of innovation against startups or competitors. Industry disruptors have been a prevalent part of commerce for thousands of years since cattle trading gave way to coins as currency.

Just when it seems impossible, something new comes out of nowhere to upend the status quo. From online retailers usurping brick and mortar retailers to mobile phones replacing landlines, answering machines and cameras, it’s not a matter of if a better mousetrap will come along, it’s when.

While a disruptor may be inescapable, it’s not all that dire. In fact, a study conducted by Strategy& (PwC’s global strategy consulting team) found that the “fear of disruption can be more damaging than actual disruption.” Additionally, existing businesses typically have plenty of time to respond to new trends before they are impacted, according to the study. Examples cited were Amazon and Google, which each took at least 10 years before dominating the web and ecommerce.

When facing a threat, established businesses that try to rush out ill-conceived strategies are just about as ineffective as those that do nothing, the study found. Instead, incumbents are more likely to succeed when they focus on continually accentuating their own core strengths and forming tighter customer connections to build loyalty.

Distribution is no less vulnerable to disruption than any other industry. As a middleman, distributors are always at risk for disintermediation. In turn, they must continue evolving and innovating to provide increasingly value-added services. The question that should be asked repeatedly is “how can we help our customers be more successful?” This is the difference between a partner and merely an order-taking vendor and a disrupter and an incumbent.

In parts distribution, it’s all about keeping critical components in stock and getting them to the customer the same or next day. This requires a massive effort beginning with forecasting what customers will need and ending with the right parts quickly in the hands of the customer. In between, every step of the process must be optimized for efficiency, accuracy and maximum throughput.

With decades of parts experience, Encompass is heavily investing in the latest AI and predictive technology to arm customers with vital data. Helping customers troubleshoot repairs and identify the right parts for the job are just a couple of ways we’re serving as more than just a supplier. Working directly with customers, we also develop creative tools that address specific pain points and help them be more successful.  Along with product repair training, video content and matching tech skills with those needing to strengthen service networks, Encompass is deploying a host of resources for the benefit of the entire industry.

We’re also targeting warehouse management solutions and automated functionality with the goal of expediting parts delivery. Backed by the resources and best practices of our parent company Parts Town – the global market leader in foodservice equipment parts distribution – we’re better positioned than ever to turn our customer-centric visions into reality.

While technology is at the heart of many of our innovations, we still believe in good old-fashioned people skills. If you want to interact with a real person, Encompass has the channel for that. Our teams are always out visiting customers in person all over the country or we’re calling them with information on important new services or just to find out if we can do anything to assist.

In 2023, Encompass will celebrate its 70th anniversary. We could not have survived in a competitive industry this long without continually raising the bar for customers. While we mark this important milestone in our history, we will forever be looking forward and exploring how we can offer more.

To the market disrupters out there, we say: our resolve to be best-in-class is only getting stronger.

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06 Oct

CE Tech Tips — October 2022

**NOTICE**
Due to the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information.

Hisense TV, LTDN46V86US
Reason for Service: Set won’t start, intermittently.
Solution: Found 3 bad caps on the power board, C811, C812 and C814.

LG TV, 42LG50
Reason for Service: Picture was solarized.
Solution: Found and replaced bad U21 on the T-Con Bd. AS15F.

LG TV, 60PV400UB
Reason for Service: Power comes on, but set doesn’t prime.
Solution: Repaired Z-Sus module by replacing a leaky C418 chip cap and three 10ohm resistors R430, R439 and R517.

LG TV, 60PV400
Reason for Service: Set powers on, but no prime.
Solution: Replaced following on Z-Sus module: R439, R517 R430, all 10ohm chip and C418.

RCA LED52B45RQ
Reason for Service: Dead, but red LED blinks once when power button pressed.
Solution: Found bad cap on power supply board, C14, 47uF.

Samsung TV, PN60E530A3FXZA
Reason for Service: Doesn’t prime, no video or picture.
Solution: Replaced ceramic caps with 10uF/63V electrolytics. C5160, C5162 and C5046. 

Sanyo TV, FW65D25T
Reason for Service: No video, audio is okay.
Solution: Replacing FRC board fixed set. 

Vizio TV, XVT3D474SV
Reason for Service: Set will not start. Amber logo, but doesn’t change to white.
Solution: Reflowing the BGA on main board fixed the set. U9

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05 Oct

Bosch Oven Troubleshooting and Repair Tips

**NOTICE**
Due the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information. 

 

This article provides step-by-step instructions for fixing some of the most common Bosch oven problems. From replacing a burned-out light bulb to cleaning a dirty door seal, these tips can help keep an oven in top condition:

1. Oven won’t turn on

One potential reason that an oven is not turning on is interruption to the power supply. Check to see if the circuit breaker has tripped or a fuse blown. If so, reset the breaker or replace the fuse and try turning on the oven again.

Another common cause for an oven not turning on is a faulty igniter. If the igniter — which lights the gas in the oven — is not working correctly, the oven will not heat up. To test the igniter, see if it is glowing. If it’s not glowing brightly or not lighting the gas within 90 seconds, it needs to be replaced. You can also test the igniter for continuity with a multimeter.

Finally, a damaged bake element can also prevent an oven from turning on. The bake element, which generates heat, is located at the bottom of the oven. If it’s cracked or broken, it will need to be replaced to fix the problem.

2. Oven light out

There are a few different causes for an oven light to go out. First, check the light bulb to see if it needs to be replaced. If the bulb is intact and screwed in tightly, the problem may be with the socket or wiring. When sockets and wiring are involved, it’s best for safety to to call a professional electrician to assist.

Otherwise, it may be a blown fuse. Check the fuse box to see if a fuse has blown, and replace it if necessary.

3. Oven time not setting

One of the most common problems with ovens is a clock or timer not working. One reason for this could be that the power cord is not plugged in all the way. Additionally, the power outlet may not be working, or there’s something else wrong with the oven.

First, ensure the power cord is plugged in securely. If it is, check the power outlet by plugging in another appliance. If the outlet works, then there may be a separate problem with the oven, requiring a professional service provider.

4. Oven not heating

Another common problem is an oven not heating. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty heating element, blown fuse or issue with the temperature. In most cases, the problem can be resolved relatively easily.

Check to see if the heating element is still in place and functioning properly. Next, check the fuse box and replace any blown fuses. Finally, adjust the temperature to see if that resolves the issue.

If the oven still isn’t heating up, it’s possible there’s a more serious problem with the wiring. In this case, it’s best to call in a qualified technician for further assistance.

5. Oven not baking evenly

There are several reasons why an oven might not bake evenly. One common cause is a build-up of dirt and grease on the heating elements. This gunk can insulate the elements and prevent them from adequately conducting heat.

Another possibility is that the oven door is not sealing properly. If there is even a small gap, heat can escape, resulting in uneven baking. The final and most serious cause is a problem with the oven’s thermostat. This can cause the temperature to fluctuate, making it impossible to achieve consistent results.

Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that can be taken to fix these problems. First, make sure to clean the oven regularly, paying special attention to the heating elements. If the door is not closing properly, check the gasket for damage and replace if necessary. Then, if the thermostat appears to be malfunctioning, contact a qualified technician for repairs.

6. Broiler not working

One obvious reason is the broiler element is not heating up. If so, replace it. Another possibility is a problem with the igniter, which sparks gas in the oven. If it’s not working, the gas won’t ignite and the broiler won’t turn on. It will need to be replaced if found to be faulty.

Finally, the gas valve could be defective. If the gas valve is not open, gas will not flow to the oven and the broiler will not turn on. If you think this might be the problem, it’s best to contact a qualified technician to replace the valve.

 

Special thanks to Fred’s Appliance Academy for this helpful tip!

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13 Sep

Best Ways to Clean Dryer Vents

**NOTICE**
Due the danger and complexity of electronic equipment repair, the following technical tip is intended for professional reference only. Please refer to manufacturer’s recommendations as Encompass does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability or safety of this information. 

Vents are generally installed from a dryer to an external port on the side of the home. They’re an important part of any laundry setup, but are often ignored until they become clogged and cause issues such as:

  • Excessive lint on clothing
  • Minimal to no drying
  • Laundry is excessively hot
  • Humidity might rise during dry seasons

Cleaning a clogged vent is relatively easy; here are five steps to getting your unit in tip top shape:

1. Disconnect Dryer to Access Vent

First, ensure the dryer is disconnected from its power source. Look for any clips or screws that might hold down the housing from the unit and unclip/unscrew them to detach the vent from. Always make sure the power has been disconnected before attempting any appliance repair to avoid getting shocked.

2. Clean Exhaust 

Excessive lint most often builds within the exhaust that connects the dryer housing. Take a quick look at the filters and the overall unit for any dirt/sand or lint. Use a  wire brush to reach in with a twisting motion and then gently pull it out to capture lint and other possible debris.

3. Brush and Vacuum Duct and Pipe

This step requires the most effort due to its location going from the dryer unit inside the wall through to the outside. Place a bucket or small trash can underneath the end of the duct to catch debris. Then, use a stretchable or twisty brush and scrub the inside of the duct. Use a brush handle extension to reach into the pipe as far as possible. The pipe leads the duct all the way to the exterior for expelling air and lint, so it needs cleaning.

After scrubbing the duct and pipe interior walls, lint should come loose. Use a vacuum rod extension or flexible hose and run it down the length of the duct to suck up the debris.

4. Check Exterior Vent

All vents lead to an outer exhaust opening. To help ensure the brushing has not propelled the lint to the far end, check the exterior opening as well. Open the grate of the vent if it is grilled. Use a flexible brush to scrub as far as you can reach, and then use a vacuum to remove loosened lint. This will ensure that airflow is unobstructed and directed toward wet clothes instead.

5. Reconnect Everything 

To return the dryer to working condition, connect the duct and pipe to the exhaust section of the dryer unit, taking care to replace the outer grill. Next, reconnect the exhaust to the dryer and test it to check for proper airflow. If everything flows nicely without spitting out too much debris, it’s a home run.

 

Special thanks to Fred’s Appliance Academy for this helpful tip.

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