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What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an Appliance Technician in Wichita?

Many skilled appliance repair technicians in Wichita can repair various commercial and residential appliances, such as ovens, refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers. While these technicians may have a broad knowledge of various types of appliances, many of the technicians in Wichita who handle appliance repairs prefer to focus on specific areas, such as the following:

• Product-based repair: These technicians mainly focus on products from major brands such as Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Samsung, and LG.
• Appliance-based repair: These technicians mainly deal with specific types of appliances, regardless of the brand.
• Energy source-based repair: These technicians handle appliances with energy sources such as gas, electric, solar, and dual-fuel/hybrid.
• Size-based repair: These technicians mainly deal with industrial and commercial appliances,

Below is a list of typical life expectancies for various types of appliances in Wichita:

• Refrigerators: 10 – 13
• Freezers: 10 -15
• Washing Machines: 9 - 10
• Dryers: 10 – 13
• Dishwashers: 8 – 10
• Microwave Ovens: 8 – 10
• Ranges/Oven Hoods: 10 – 16
• Garbage Disposers: 10 – 12
• Compactors: 6 – 7

Note that the durability and lifespan of your appliance can vary depending on its model, make, and usage.

Even if your appliance is relatively new, you should always contact a professional appliance repair technician for assistance if it presents any issues like the following:

• General appliance malfunction
• Burning smells
• Significant increase in energy costs
• Abnormal appliance sounds
• Unexplained moisture around or within the appliance

Are You Licensed as an Appliance Repair Technician in Wichita?

There are no occupation-specific licenses for appliance repair technicians in Wichita. However, appliance repair technicians may be required to obtain a state-issued license from the Sedgwick County Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) before providing some services. For instance, if your technician deals with repairs of air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating appliances, they need to obtain a mechanical license from the MABCD.

To be eligible for this type of license, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Pass an apprenticeship program
• Demonstrate at least two years of verifiable work experience
• Pass a trade exam with at least 75%

Furthermore, according to federal regulations, appliance technicians who intend to work on appliances that emit or contain refrigerants must also complete Section 608 Certification with an EPA-approved organization.

Before hiring a technician to perform any work requiring a license, verify they hold the proper license and are qualified to provide the services you need. You can verify the licensing status of professionals by contacting the Sedgwick County Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) at (316) 660-1840. In general, contact this number for licensing information concerning professionals holding a state-issued license.

What Rates Do You Charge for Appliance Repairs in Wichita?

The average cost of appliance repairs in Wichita is around $50 to $500, including the technician's labor rates, which range from around $50 to $100 per hour. However, the exact figures of your appliance repair service will depend on several factors, such as the following:

• The cost of required replacement parts
• The nature of the issue
• How quickly the appliance can be fixed
• The type, brand, and model of the appliance

Some of the repair price ranges for common appliances in Wichita are listed below:

Always ensure that your technician is reliable and skilled in handling the repairs you need. We recommend that you get and compare cost estimates from at least three appliance repair technicians in Wichita before making your final hiring decision. This strategy will ensure you get the best price possible and don't get ripped off by shady technicians.

Are You Certified by the Manufacturer to Repair This Appliance?

When looking to repair appliances, such as washing machines, refrigerators, and ovens, hiring an appliance repair technician certified or authorized by the product manufacturer is best. These technicians have the necessary training and experience to handle the repairs of different products made by the manufacturer. Hence, even if the cost of hiring a factory-certified technician is higher, you will gain added benefits when you hire one. Here's three:

• Warranty protection
• Professional service delivery
• Access to direct support from manufacturers and genuine replacement parts

If you cannot find a factory-certified technician to handle the repairs on your appliance, you can look for skilled appliance repair professionals with training and certification from reputable organizations like the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians, the Professional Service Association, and the United Appliance Servicers Association. Ensure you verify any credential claims your preferred repair technician makes.

Do You Replace Parts with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts?

An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part refers to an accessory or component made and supplied by the manufacturer of a specific appliance. You should always confirm with your appliance repair technician that they will use OEM parts for the repairs. These types of parts are generally more durable and of higher quality than generic parts, which are typically made and supplied by other companies not affiliated with the original manufacturer. Using OEM components for repairs can also help preserve your appliance's existing warranty.

If original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are unavailable, your technician may have to use generic components for your appliance repairs. Be it as it may, you should always ask for a warranty that covers the materials and workmanship of the appliance repair technician.

Will My Home Warranty Cover the Cost of Repairing the Appliance?

A home warranty is a type of service contract that provides protection if appliances such as washing machines, ovens, and ranges break down due to regular wear and tear. It typically lasts for one year and can be renewed annually. Please note that unlike home insurance, which provides coverage for unexpected damages to personal property and your home, a home warranty only covers certain appliances and is limited to issues caused by regular wear and tear.

Although some home warranty companies cover repairs or maintenance, most do not cover issues caused by pre-existing faults, improper installation, or misuse. So, you should always check the terms and conditions of a home warranty to clearly understand it before signing it.

Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Wichita Appliance Technician?

Even though there is no legal requirement for appliance repair technicians to carry liability insurance in Wichita, always confirm that the technician you hire is adequately insured. Why? Because if something goes wrong during the work, you could be held liable for any damages.

Be aware that appliance repair technicians who hold a valid HVAC contractor license and wish to operate their business in Wichita must obtain a trade contractors license from the MABCD Mechanical Division. To be eligible for this license, the technician must provide a certificate of liability insurance of at least $300,000 and proof of workers' compensation insurance for their employees, if any.

To learn more about the insurance requirements for Wichita appliance repair technicians holding a trade contractors license, contact the Sedgwick County Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department (MABCD) at (316) 660-1840.