Long winters and appliances
Spokane's winters are long and cold, with about 72 freeze-thaw cycles in an average year and heavy snow, according to NOAA's engineering weather data. Appliances in garages, basements and laundry rooms near exterior walls feel it.
Garage refrigerators and freezers
Refrigerators and freezers in unheated garages may not keep the freezer cold enough in winter, because many rely on a thermostat in the fresh-food section that rarely calls for cooling when the garage is cold. Some models are designed for garage use. Check the manufacturer's operating range, and use a thermometer to make sure the freezer is at 0°F.
Frozen water lines
Washers and ice makers can have supply lines freeze in cold laundry rooms, garages and exterior walls. A cracked inlet valve or hose leaks when it thaws. Insulate supply lines, keep laundry areas above freezing, and check for leaks after a cold snap.
Dryer vents and snow
Snow and ice can block outdoor dryer vents, and a blocked vent causes overheating and lint buildup, which is a fire risk. Clear snow from vents after storms, keep the flap working, and have the vent cleaned regularly. Vents through cold spaces should be insulated and slope to drain.
Power outages
Winter storms can cause outages. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food safety guidance recommends discarding perishable refrigerated food that's been above 40°F for more than a couple of hours. Surges when power returns can damage electronic controls; a whole-home surge protector installed by an electrician helps.
Water and the aquifer
Spokane's drinking water comes from the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, a sole source aquifer. When an old appliance is replaced, refrigerants must be recovered and appliances recycled properly. Ask the installer or your local solid waste program how old appliances are handled.
Before you hire
Ask Spokane appliance technicians what they found and how they confirmed it, whether they carry parts for your brand, what the repair costs, and how long they warranty the work. For gas appliances, ask whether they'll test for leaks after the repair. Use L&I's contractor lookup to check registration if the work involves installation.
Basement laundry rooms
Many Spokane homes have laundry in the basement. A burst washer hose or failed inlet valve in a finished basement can soak carpet and drywall before anyone notices. Replace rubber fill hoses with braided ones, consider a drain pan or a water leak alarm under the washer, and turn off the supply valves when you're away for more than a few days.
Repair or replace
Component repairs such as fans, defrost parts, igniters, pumps and belts are usually worth doing on an appliance in good condition. Sealed-system refrigerator repairs and major control boards on older machines often make replacement the better value. Ask for a written diagnosis and price so you can compare, and ask whether the part is under the manufacturer's warranty.