As Master Tech Scott, my days are filled with troubleshooting, problem-solving, and connecting with customers through JustAnswer. Each call brings a new challenge, a new story, and sometimes a surprising connection. Today was no exception—a whirlwind of washers, grills, microwaves, refrigerators, and a dose of life lessons. Here’s a glimpse into my day, sharing the journey of an appliance repair tech navigating the highs and lows of keeping household machines alive.
Morning: Tackling an LE Error on a Washer
The day kicked off with a customer grappling with an LE error code on their washing machine. For those unfamiliar, an LE error typically points to a motor issue—often a faulty rotor sensor or motor overload. We dove into the nitty-gritty, discussing potential causes like overloading the drum, worn-out motor bearings, or a glitch in the sensor. I walked them through basic checks: ensuring the load wasn’t unbalanced and inspecting the motor for obvious signs of wear. Resolving the motor issue would likely fix the problem, but with a 9-year-old machine, parts can be tricky. I suggested contacting the manufacturer to inquire about any extended warranty on the motor, though I warned that after nearly a decade, coverage was unlikely. The customer appreciated the guidance, and we left the call with a plan—check the motor, contact the manufacturer, and weigh the cost of repair versus replacement. First call of the day: a solid start.
Mid-Morning: A Culinary Connection Over a Damaged Grill
A few calls later, I connected with a customer about a damaged grill. Unfortunately, we didn’t make much headway on the repair—the damage was extensive, and parts for high-end grills can be a logistical nightmare. But what started as a technical discussion quickly turned into something special. The customer revealed he’s a respected culinary chef and a promoter of high-end appliances. As the father of a budding chef who’s trained for years at the Young Chef’s Academy in San Antonio, Texas, I couldn’t help but get excited. We bonded over our shared love for the culinary world, swapping stories about my daughter’s passion and his experiences with top-tier brands like DCS, SKS, Wolf, Dacor, and even the luxurious La Cornue and Lacanche.
We geeked out over the artistry of these appliances and even touched on the prestigious culinary program at Johnson & Wales University, where he’d crossed paths with aspiring chefs. On the technical side, we discussed bypassing or repairing the grill’s damaged hose, but the real win was the connection. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love this job—not just fixing machines, but building relationships with people who share my enthusiasm for craftsmanship, whether it’s in food or appliances.
Afternoon: Saving a Vintage Microwave
Next up was a customer with a 20-year-old microwave that had seen better days. A cleaning crew had damaged the turntable mechanism, leaving the microwave functional but hobbled. For an appliance that’s practically a relic, finding replacement parts is a gamble. Fortunately, LG and Whirlpool had adopted the part’s blueprint for their newer models, meaning there was a chance to source a compatible replacement. I walked the customer through the process of identifying the part number and checking with suppliers. The relief in her voice was palpable—she wasn’t ready to part with her trusty vintage microwave just yet. It’s always satisfying to help someone keep a beloved appliance running, especially when it’s been a kitchen staple for two decades.
Late Afternoon: A Lesson in Humility with a $15,000 Refrigerator
Things took a more humbling turn with my next call. A strong-willed DIY enthusiast was dealing with a 20-year-old Thermador refrigerator—a $15,000 beast with a faulty control board. Replacement parts for a machine this old are nearly impossible to find, so we discussed the option of taking the bad part to a specialized repair shop for refurbishment. The customer, however, was skeptical about the value of professional help. He scoffed at a tech who quoted $160 for a diagnosis, chuckling at the idea of a technician charging “$160 an hour” for what he assumed was simple work.
As a 10-year industry veteran, I’ve heard this before. I gently explained that no detailed repair guides exist for consumers—those are typically reserved for trained technicians, and even then, they’re not always publicly available. The customer seemed disappointed, expecting a step-by-step manual to magically appear. I’ve seen this scenario play out countless times: customers undervaluing the expertise of a tech, only to realize the complexity of the task when they’re knee-deep in a disassembled appliance. Our call ended on a pleasant note, but I suspect he’ll come to appreciate the skill and knowledge a tech brings—maybe not today, but eventually. It’s a humbling reminder that not every fix is as simple as it seems.
End of the Day: Laughing Over a Throwaway Washer
My final call of the day was with an everyday customer facing a all-too-common issue: a cheap washer with a malfunctioning control board, just 24 months old. We shared a laugh about the sad state of modern appliances—“things aren’t made like they used to be,” she said, and I couldn’t agree more. She raised a poignant point: no one invests in repairs anymore, so manufacturers churn out disposable machines, and the cycle of breaking and replacing continues. It’s a wasteful reality—her washer was essentially junk after just two years. We weighed the cost of a new control board against the price of a replacement washer, and it was clear the repair wasn’t worth it. We parted ways with a shared sense of frustration at the throwaway culture of modern appliances, but also a chuckle at the absurdity of it all.
Reflections on the Day
Today was a microcosm of what it means to be an appliance repair tech. From troubleshooting obscure error codes to bonding over a shared love of culinary craftsmanship, from saving a vintage microwave to navigating the ego of a DIYer, each call brought its own flavor. Some customers leave with a fixed machine, others with a new perspective, and sometimes, we just share a laugh about the fleeting nature of modern appliances. As Master Tech Scott, I’m not just fixing machines—I’m solving problems, building connections, and occasionally reminding folks that expertise is worth its weight in gold.
This journey through my day is a testament to the unpredictability and humanity of this job. Whether it’s a 9-year-old washer or a $15,000 refrigerator, every appliance has a story, and I’m grateful to play a part in keeping those stories alive—or at least helping customers move on to the next chapter.
Thanks for joining me on this ride! If you’ve got an appliance tale of your own, drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear it.
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