Amana Appliance Repair

We've fixed just about every Amana appliance out there, from refrigerators and ranges to washers and dryers. These machines tend to be pretty straightforward compared to fancier brands, which makes them easier to diagnose and repair them when things go wrong. Here's our breakdown of common Amana problems and how to handle them.

Refrigerator Problems

When Amana fridges act up, we usually see a pattern of issues. Cooling problems top the list of complaints.

First, check those condenser coils - they're usually underneath the fridge or on the back and collect dust like crazy. Pull the fridge out (carefully!), unplug it, and vacuum those coils thoroughly. You wouldn't believe how many "broken" refrigerators start cooling properly after this simple cleaning.

The defrost system causes all kinds of headaches in Amana models. If you notice frost building up on the back wall of the freezer, you're often looking at a defrost system issue. The problem could be caused by a faulty electronic control board, defrost heater or thermostat. The defrost heater typically looks like a long aluminum tube attached to the bottom of the evaporator cooling fins. Testing needs a multimeter to check for continuity after unplugging the fridge.

Evaporator fan motors quit working and cause temperature problems. This fan circulates cold air from the freezer throughout the refrigerator. When it fails, the freezer might still get cold while the fridge section warms up. Listen for the fan running - it should make a steady humming sound. No sound or strange noises mean trouble.

Door gaskets leak cold air when they get old and brittle. Run your hand around the edge of the door while it's closed - feel any cold air escaping? The rubber seal should be flexible and make complete contact all the way around. Sometimes cleaning with mild soap fixes minor issues but cracked or permanently deformed gaskets need replacement.

Compressor start relay problems show up as clicking followed by a buzzing sound, then the compressor shuts off. That relay helps the compressor motor start up, and when it fails, the fridge goes through this frustrating cycle without ever cooling properly. It's a small plastic device connected to the side of the compressor, relatively cheap and easy to replace.

Schedule refrigerator repair when you’re unable to find the cause and fix an Amana fridge problem own.

Oven and Range Issues

Here are the top issues that we face when repairing Amana ovens and ranges:

Broken Oven Elements

Bake elements burn out eventually in every electric oven. If your Amana oven heats unevenly or not at all, look at the bottom element. You'll see obvious damage like blistering, sagging, or breaks in the element if it's bad. Replacement is straightforward - usually just two screws and electrical connections in the back. Always unplug the range or shut off house circuit breakers for the oven to disconnect electrical power before troubleshooting and/or repairing problems.

Gas Oven Ignition Failure

Ignition problems plague gas models. If you hear clicking but no flame appears, the igniter might be weak or the gas supply restricted. Most Amana gas ranges use a hot surface igniter that glows bright orange/white before the gas valve opens. If it glows but no gas flows, the igniter may be working but weak or the safety valve might be stuck. If it doesn't glow at all, the igniter often needs replacement.

Oven Not Heating Properly

Temperature sensors drift out of calibration over time. Your oven might run too hot or too cold even when set correctly. That thin metal probe at the back of the oven cavity reads temperature and can develop problems. Some models allow recalibration through the control panel - check your manual for instructions specific to your model.

Electronic Control Problems

Control boards fail from heat exposure and power surges. Symptoms include erratic operation, displays that partially work, or ovens that won't maintain temperature properly. Board replacement requires matching your exact model number and usually some disassembly of the control panel area.

Surface Burner Failures

Surface burners develop hot spots or fail completely. Electric coil burners just plug into a socket, making them easy to replace when they wear out. Smooth-top ranges have elements underneath the glass that are a bit more involved to access but still manageable for a DIY repair.

Oven Door Problems

Door hinges wear out and cause alignment problems. If your oven door doesn't close properly or drops suddenly when opened, the hinges have weakened. Replacement involves removing the door and some disassembly but can be done with basic tools and care.

Set up Amana range repair when you need to have your oven or stove fixed.

Washer Troubles

Sears Home Services technician face these common issues with Amana washers:

• Agitation problems frustrate everyone. When your Amana washer fills but won't agitate, first check the lid switch. These machines have a safety feature preventing operation with the lid open. Listen for a click when closing the lid - no click means the switch needs attention. It's usually near the door frame where the lid closes down.
• Water inlet valve screens clog with sediment, especially in hard water areas. If your washer fills slowly or not at all, check those little screens where the fill hoses connect. Unscrew the hoses (after turning water off) and clean or replace the screens if they're clogged with mineral buildup.
• Drain pump problems cause water to stay in the tub. Listen for the pump running during the drain cycle. If you hear it but water remains, something's probably stuck in there. Coins, baby socks, bra underwires - we've found everything imaginable blocking these pumps. Access usually requires removing the front panel.
• Transmission issues show up as grinding noises during agitation or spin. Unfortunately, transmission repairs get complicated and expensive. Sometimes it makes more sense to replace the washer unless it's relatively new or high-end.
• Control timer knobs break internally but look fine from outside. If you turn the knob but cycles don't advance or start, the timer might be bad. These are replaceable modules - unplug first, then remove the control panel cover to access them.

Depend on Sears Home Services for accurate diagnosis and trustworthy Amana washer repair service when you’re unable to resolve a washing machine issue on your own.

Dryer Issues

Amana dryers suffer from these common failures:

• No heat complaints top the list for Amana dryers. First check the obvious - make sure it's set to a heat setting, not air fluff. Then check your circuit breakers. Electric dryers need two separate 120V circuits combining for 240V total. Sometimes one trips while the other stays on, giving you a running dryer with no heat.
• Heating elements burn out after years of use. They're just coils of wire that heat up when electricity flows through them. Over time, they develop weak spots and break. Visual inspection usually shows obvious damage when they fail. Replacement requires some disassembly but isn't overly complicated.
• Thermal fuses blow when dryers overheat. This safety device prevents fires but doesn't reset itself once triggered. Nearly always caused by restricted airflow from lint buildup. Always check and clean the entire vent path from dryer to outside when replacing a thermal fuse. They're usually located on the heating element housing or the blower housing.
• Clogged vents cause endless problems and create fire hazards. Pull the vent hose off the back and run a cycle. If it suddenly works better, you've found your problem. Clean from both the dryer end and the outside vent cap. Consider replacing accordion-style flexible ducts with smooth metal ones that collect less lint.
• Belt breaks happen eventually. Signs include the drum not turning while the motor runs, often with a burning smell from the belt. Accessing the belt means opening the cabinet - usually by removing the top and front panels. Note exactly how the old one routes before removing it!
• Moisture sensors fail and cause automatic cycles to run too long or shut off too early. Those metal strips in the drum detect moisture in clothing. Clean them with alcohol on a cotton swab first - fabric softener residue often coats them and causes malfunction. If cleaning doesn't help, they might need replacement.

Dishwasher Problems

Cleaning Problems

Cleaning performance issues frustrate Amana dishwasher owners.

• Check spray arms first - they get clogged with food particles or mineral deposits. * Look for blocked holes and clean with a toothpick or small wire.
• Make sure they spin freely when pushed gently.

Pump Problems

Pump and motor problems show up as humming without proper water circulation, or strange noises during operation. Access usually means removing the lower spray arm and screen, then the pump cover underneath. Look for obvious blockages before assuming the worst.

Water Filling Issues

Filling issues trace back to either the water inlet valve or float mechanism. If no water enters at all, listen for a humming when the cycle starts. No sound means the valve isn't getting power or has failed completely. Too much water usually means the float is stuck or damaged. Look for a small plastic dome or cylinder in the tub bottom that moves up and down.

Detergent Dispenser Failures

Detergent dispensers stick closed or won't latch properly. Residue builds up around the spring mechanism or hinges. Thorough cleaning with warm water and an old toothbrush often fixes this. If parts are broken, the whole dispenser assembly usually needs replacement.

Water Leaks

Door leaks develop as gaskets age and warp. Inspect the rubber seal around the door for damage, food debris, or deformation. Clean thoroughly and check alignment. Sometimes adjusting the door latch mechanism improves the seal without parts replacement.

Electronic Component Failures

Control board problems cause erratic operation or complete failure. Power surges damage these components, as does moisture intrusion over time. Replacement boards need to match your exact model number. Not the cheapest repair, but still less than a new dishwasher.

When to Call Us

Some Amana appliance repairs go beyond typical DIY territory. Sealed refrigeration system problems - like refrigerant leaks, compressor replacement, or evaporator repairs - require specialized tools and EPA certification. These components contain refrigerant under pressure that needs proper handling.

Gas appliance safety components shouldn't be modified by untrained hands. If your gas range or dryer has problems with gas valves, pressure regulators, or safety systems, professional service ensures proper repair and prevents dangerous situations.

Electronic control systems sometimes need specialized diagnostic equipment. If you've tried basic troubleshooting without success, our techs have proper testing tools to pinpoint issues efficiently.

We repair all models of Amana appliances daily and stock parts for units dating back many years. When a repair goes beyond your comfort level, our technicians can handle it with the right tools and experience.

Remember - always disconnect power before attempting internal repairs and never defeat safety features. No repaired appliance is worth risking safety over. When in doubt, give us a call.