Online videos make appliance repairs look easy. Sometimes they are. But modern appliances combine mains electricity, water and, in the case of cookers and hobs, gas, and mistakes with any of those can hurt you or damage your home. This guide explains where the real risks are, what you can safely check yourself and when to leave the job to a qualified engineer.
Gas: not a DIY job
Anything that involves the gas supply, burners, taps, pipes, regulators or ignition on a cooker, hob or oven must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Anyone you employ to work on gas appliances in your home must be Gas Safe registered, and the Gas Safe Register advises householders not to attempt gas work themselves, because faulty work can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning, which you can't see or smell.
Don't use switches, lighters or flames. Open doors and windows, turn the gas off at the meter (unless it is in a cellar) and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999, free, 24 hours, from outside the property.
The Gas Safe Register lists some warning signs of an unsafe gas appliance: flames that look limp and yellow, more condensation than usual, and black marks around the appliance. If you see these, stop using the appliance and have it checked. Gas Safe also recommends an annual check of gas appliances by a registered engineer.
Mains electricity
Ovens, hobs, washing machines, dryers, fridges and dishwashers all connect to the mains. Switching an appliance off at the wall doesn't make every part safe: capacitors and some components can hold a charge, and fixed appliances such as cookers and hobs are wired into the home's circuits. Risks include electric shock, burns and fires from a poor connection that doesn't show up until later.
Replacing elements, thermostats, control boards or motors involves exactly the sort of work where a mistake can be dangerous, and the wrong part or a poor connection can lead to overheating.
Water and electrics
Washing machines and dishwashers mix water and electricity by design. A badly refitted hose or seal can leak slowly and cause damage you won't notice for weeks, such as rotten flooring or damp, or a short circuit.
Other risks
- Injuries. Appliances are heavy, with sharp edges and springs. Pulling out a washing machine or oven on your own is a common way to hurt your back.
- The wrong part. Parts differ between models, even within the same make. A part that fits but isn't right can fail or cause damage.
- Warranty and insurance. A repair by an unqualified person may affect your manufacturer's warranty, your appliance insurance or both. Check your terms.
- A misdiagnosis. It is easy to replace the wrong part, spend money and find the fault is still there.
What is safe to check yourself
- That the appliance is plugged in, the socket works and the circuit hasn't tripped
- That the door is shut, and settings and programmes are correct
- Filters and drains that are meant to be cleaned by the owner, such as the washing machine pump filter and dishwasher filter
- Vents and fans free from fluff and obstructions
- Cleaning, seals and levelling
Always switch off and unplug before you check. If you feel unsure, stop.
Why use a professional
Our engineers are our own employees. They are DBS checked, trained in-house and by manufacturers and carry the tools and common parts for most repairs. We are Gas Safe registered (registration number 596103), and we guarantee every repair for 90 days. Repairs start from £70 + VAT, and we repair appliances both in and out of warranty. Call us before you pick up a screwdriver, and we will tell you whether the fault sounds like something you can check yourself.
Call us on 029 2088 5355 for a quote, or book online. Same-day or next-day where possible, repairs from £70 + VAT, and a 90-day guarantee on every repair.
Book a repair onlineFrequently asked questions
What can I safely check on a broken appliance myself?
Simple things: that it is plugged in and the fuse and circuit have not tripped, that doors are closed and settings are right, that filters and drains are clear, and that vents are not blocked. Always switch off and unplug first, and stop if you are unsure.
Can I repair a gas appliance myself?
Anyone you pay to work on gas appliances in your home must be a Gas Safe registered engineer, and the Gas Safe Register advises against doing gas work yourself. If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
Could a DIY repair affect my warranty or insurance?
It can. Manufacturers' warranties and some insurers expect repairs to be carried out by a qualified person, so check your terms before opening up an appliance.
