When an appliance unexpectedly breaks down at home, it’s a nightmare, not only trying to get it working again but also to try and find alternatives ways to undertake day to day tasks. You can guarantee an appliance will break at the worst time.

You’re getting your children’s clothes ready for school on Monday, but your washing machine has other ideas. You’re organising a party and all the frozen food you’ve bought is at risk of being wasted because your freezer has packed up. It almost makes you feel like someone up there is paying you back for something you did wrong. Either way, all is not lost, and there are plenty of options available to you to get things back on the straight and narrow.

What Should You Do If an Appliance Breaks Down in an Emergency

Look Online for Quick Fix Solutions

More often than not, there are multiple solutions online as to why your appliance has failed. Such solutions can be simple fixes, but other times they’ll require some nimble fingers. Either way, if you can find a solution online that can have your appliance back up and running again within an hour, it’s a job well done. Type the model number in to Google along with the problem you’re having to see if there are any fixes. Most of the time, other consumers have been in a similar situation as you and it’s a simple fix to get the appliance working again.

Visit the Manufacturers Website

If you’re looking online for quick-fix solutions, you might as well pay a visit to the manufacturer’s website to see if they can help. They will usually have guides that can solve the problem quickly. Always check your appliance to see if it’s still in warranty so you can gain the necessary support you were promised when you first purchased it.

Budget-Friendly Shopping Techniques for Your Kitchen Appliances
RELATED: Budget-Friendly Shopping Techniques for Your Kitchen Appliances

Hire a Local Appliance Repair Service

It’s an unexpected cost, but if you’re heavily reliant on the appliance, you must get it fixed as soon as possible. If you’re really struggling to find a fix, call your local Service Force – they’ll usually have a local engineer available to promptly help you.

Ask Your Friends and Family for Help

If there are no quick fixes and your appliance is all but doomed, it’s time to call around to see if you can get some help. Whether it’s your washing machine or your fridge-freezer that’s causing the problem, your friends and family will be more than happy to allow you to use their washing machine or house the frozen goods you’ve only just purchased.

Top Tips To Select The Right Kitchen Appliances For Your Home
RELATED: Top Tips To Select The Right Kitchen Appliances For Your Home

Take Advantage of Temporary Fixes and Traditional Methods

If your freezer dies, wrap it in blankets to provide the insulation it needs so cold air can’t escape. You can usually keep frozen food in a freezer for around two days after it stops working. If your washing machine stops working, give your clothes a good scrub in the bath with the help of your usual detergents. If your boiler breaks and your family is cold, take advantage of electric fires or even stoke up your fireplace if you have one. There’s plenty you can do without your regular appliances. After all, we’ve not always had access to them.

Use Free Classifieds to Get Old Appliances

If money is tight, post some advertisements on the usual classifieds websites – there’s always someone close by looking to get rid of old, still functioning appliances. You’ll usually be able to find working appliances for free. They might be old and ragged, but it’s still a good option if you’re desperate.

It’s a stressful time when our beloved appliances break down, but you shouldn’t let it get you down too much. With the help of the above tips, you can ensure your appliances are back to normal quickly and you can carry on with your daily tasks.

Selling your home Buyers reveal their spring 'wow' factors, including neutral colours and modern appliances
RELATED: Selling your home – Buyers reveal their spring ‘wow’ factors, including neutral colours and modern appliances