Roper Appliance Repair

We've fixed Roper appliances for decades and seen just about everything these budget-friendly machines can throw at us. Even though they're generally simpler than fancy brands, they have their own quirks worth knowing about. Here's our guide to the most common Roper problems we encounter.

Washer Troubles

• Water fill problems plague these washers at times. First check the obvious - make sure those water valves behind the machine are fully open. Then check if the inlet screens are clogged. These little filters where the hoses connect to the washer get packed with mineral crud, especially in hard water areas. Unscrew the hoses (water off first!) and clean those screens with an old toothbrush.
• Agitation issues frustrate everyone. When your Roper fills but won't agitate, check the lid switch first. These machines won't run with the lid open - a safety feature. The switch is usually near the door frame and should click when the lid closes. No click means it needs fixing or adjusting.
• The motor coupling breaks on certain models of these machines when you overload them. The motor coupler is a small plastic and rubber part connecting the motor to the transmission. When it fails, you'll hear the motor humming, but nothing happens. Parts cost about 10 bucks and take maybe 30 minutes to replace if you're somewhat handy. You’ll need to tip the washer back to access the bottom.
• Drive belts slip or break on belt-driven models. If the motor runs but nothing else happens, the likely culprit is a broken belt. You'll need to pull the washer out and remove the back panel to check. Replacement belts need to match exactly - take the old one with you when buying.
• Drain problems show up as water not pumping out. Check the drain hose first - make sure it's not kinked or clogged. Then look at the pump itself, usually accessible from the bottom or back. We've pulled everything from baby socks to coins out of these pumps. Always unplug before sticking your hand anywhere near that pump!
• Timer knobs break internally but look fine from outside. You turn the knob but nothing happens or cycles don't advance. The timer is basically the brain of simpler Roper washers, and they do wear out. Replacement means removing the control panel and swapping out the whole timer assembly with a new one.

Dryer Issues

• No-heat problems top the list for Roper dryers. First check your circuit breakers for electric models. These need two separate 120V circuits that combine for 240V. Sometimes one trips while the other stays on, giving you a running dryer with no heat. For gas models, make sure the gas valve is actually open.
• Heating elements burn out in electric models. These are just coils of wire that heat up when electricity passes through them. They develop weak spots and break after enough heating cycles. Visual inspection usually shows damage when they fail. Replacement isn't too difficult - unplug everything, remove some panels, and swap it out.
• Thermal fuses blow when dryers overheat. This safety device prevents fires but doesn't reset once triggered. Almost always caused by lint buildup restricting airflow. Check the entire vent path from dryer to outside wall. The fuse itself is usually on the heating element housing or blower housing – a small white or beige device with two wires.
• Vent clogs cause endless problems and create serious fire hazards. Disconnect the vent hose and run the dryer. If it suddenly works better, you've found your problem. Clean from both the dryer end and outside vent. Consider replacing accordion-style ducts with smooth metal ones that collect less lint.
• Belt failures happen after years of use. Signs include the drum not turning while the motor runs, often with a burning smell from the belt slipping. Getting to the belt means opening the cabinet - usually removing the top and front panels. Take a picture of how it's routed before removing the old one!
• Gas valve solenoids fail on gas models. If you hear clicking but no ignition when starting a dry cycle, the solenoids might be bad. These electrical components open the gas valve when energized. Testing requires a multimeter and some knowledge of gas appliance safety. Not really a beginner DIY job.

Refrigerator Troubles

• Cooling problems hit Roper fridges over time. First check those condenser coils - they're usually underneath or behind the fridge and collect mountains of dust over time. Unplug the unit, pull it out carefully, and vacuum those coils thoroughly. This simple maintenance prevents tons of problems.
• Defrost system failures show up as frost buildup on the back wall of the freezer. Components that might fail include the defrost timer, heater, or thermostat. The heater looks like a tube attached to the cooling coils. Testing requires a multimeter after unplugging. When the defrost system fails, airflow gets blocked, and cooling suffers.
• Fan motors quit working and cause temperature issues. Roper refrigerators have multiple fans - one for the condenser (near the compressor) and another for the evaporator (inside the freezer section). When either fails, cooling performance drops dramatically. Listen for unusual noises or lack of expected fan sounds.
• Compressor start relays fail and prevent the compressor from running properly. Signs include a clicking sound followed by a hum, then nothing. That relay helps the compressor motor start, and when it fails, the cooling cycle never completes. It's a small device plugged into the side of the compressor - relatively cheap and easy to replace.
• Door gaskets leak cold air when they get old or damaged. Run your hand around the door edges while closed - feel any cold air? The rubber seal should be flexible and make complete contact. Food spills that harden on the gasket prevent proper sealing too. Clean thoroughly with mild soap first before deciding on replacement.
• Temperature control issues happen when the thermostat fails. If your fridge runs constantly or not enough, the thermostat might be misreading temperatures. It's usually a thin tube running to a dial control. Testing and replacement get somewhat technical but are doable with basic tools.

Range and Oven Problems

• Heating elements fail in electric models. If your bake element (bottom) or broil element (top) has visible damage, gaps, or blistering, it needs replacement. Just a couple of screws and wire connections in most cases. Always unplug first!
• Ignition problems plague gas ranges. If burners click but don't light, first check if the pilot is lit (older models) or if the igniter glows (newer models). Igniters weaken over time and need replacement when they no longer get hot enough to open the gas safety valve.
• Temperature inconsistency makes cooking frustrating. Your oven might run too hot or too cold even when set correctly. The temperature sensor - that long metal probe at the back of the oven cavity - can drift out of calibration. Some models allow adjustment through the control panel settings.
• Burner switches wear out on electric ranges. If a surface burner won't turn on or won't adjust properly, the switch controlling it has probably failed. These are behind the control knobs and take some disassembly to replace, but parts are generally affordable.
• Gas valves stick or fail on gas ranges. If burners won't adjust properly or won't shut off completely, the valve needs attention. These repairs require some experience with gas appliances, so consider calling us if you're not comfortable working with gas connections.
• Door hinges wear out and cause alignment problems. If your oven door doesn't close properly or drops suddenly when opened, the hinges need replacement. Some maintenance like tightening loose screws might help temporarily, but worn hinges eventually need new parts.

Dishwasher Issues

• Poor cleaning performance frustrates Roper dishwasher owners. First check spray arms for clogs. Food particles and mineral deposits block the small holes over time. Remove the arms (usually just twist and pull) and clean each hole with a toothpick or small wire. Make sure they spin freely when reinstalled.
• Filling problems point to the water inlet valve or float switch. If no water enters, the valve might have failed or be clogged with debris. Too much water usually means the float is stuck. Look for a small plastic dome in the tub bottom that should move up and down freely.
• Drain issues leave standing water in the bottom. Check the drain filter for blockages first - usually accessible in the bottom of the tub. Then look at the drain hose where it connects to your sink drain or disposal - make sure it's not kinked or clogged. The drain pump itself might have failed if everything else checks out.
• Control problems show up as no response when buttons are pressed or cycles that stop midway. The control board takes a beating from heat and moisture over years of use. For simpler mechanical timer models, the timer motor might have failed. Either way, the "brain" needs replacement.
• Door leaks develop as gaskets age and warp. Check the rubber seal around the door for damage or deformation. Clean thoroughly and check if the door alignment needs adjustment. Sometimes tightening hinge screws improves the seal without replacing parts.
• Detergent dispensers stick closed or won't latch. Residue builds up in the mechanism over time. Thorough cleaning with warm water and an old toothbrush often fixes this. If parts are broken, the whole dispenser assembly usually needs replacement.

When to Call Us

Some Roper repairs go beyond typical DIY territory. Sealed refrigeration system problems - like refrigerant leaks, compressor issues, or major blockages - require specialized tools and EPA certification. These components contain refrigerant under pressure that needs proper handling. Schedule Roper refrigerator repair when you know that a compressor or sealed system problem exists.

Gas appliance safety components shouldn't be modified without proper training. If your gas range or dryer has problems with gas valves, pressure regulators, or ignition safety systems, professional Roper range repair service ensures proper repair and prevents dangerous situations.

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

We repair all models of Roper appliances regularly and stock parts for units dating back many years. These basic machines are often worth fixing rather than replacing. When a repair goes beyond your comfort level, give us a call - we'll help keep your appliances running smoothly.

Remember - always disconnect power before attempting internal repairs and never bypass safety features. No repair is worth risking your safety over.