Appliance Repair, Parts & Service in Fernley, NV. 

Appliance repair is one of those topics that divides opinions—some people are all for it, while others aren't. There are those who subscribe to a "throw-away" mentality, opting to purchase the cheapest appliances available, expecting to replace them often. Then there are the rest, who prefer to keep their appliances running by repairing or replacing parts when needed. With several options for appliance technicians available, how do you choose the right one? Are all technicians the same, or do some just charge more or less than others? The answer isn't straightforward because it requires understanding more of the context to make a well-informed decision.

Some folks think fixing appliances is simple. How hard could it be, right? Many “engineers” or self-proclaimed “handy” individuals looking for a new career or a side hustle often consider appliance repair. These so-called “technicians” frequently rely on internet or YouTube videos for guidance. Before heading out for a service call, they might be watching tutorials on how to repair the appliance they are about to work on. This reliance is problematic because it creates a false sense of competence—they might believe they're prepared to repair your machine properly, but that’s not always the case. The reality is that appliances are sophisticated pieces of equipment that must meet numerous safety regulations to function safely in your home. For instance, refrigerators need flame-proof components and electronic controls to monitor safety, ensuring user safety. Washing machines now have locking lids to protect children and prevent injuries. Appliances have a lot of complexities, and without proper factory training on how to disassemble and diagnose them correctly, a technician could cause more harm than good—damaging panels, breaking plastic parts, cutting wires, and potentially leaving you with a non-functional appliance that needs replacing.

What about companies in town that are factory trained? There aren’t as many as you might think. In a region with a population of 460,000 (Washoe County), you would expect more factory-trained companies. In reality, only three or four companies in the area regularly attend factory training classes. And we’re proud to be one of them. A key question is, who provides factory-authorized service for the major retailers? Local companies typically self-service, meaning they only warranty the products they sell. But what about the thousands of appliances sold every year by big box stores? Who services those appliances under warranty? There are only a handful of companies that can fill this role. This becomes a significant problem if you’re a customer needing a refrigerator repair while it's under warranty—most servicers are booked weeks in advance, and immediate assistance may not be available.

          What’s the solution to this significant problem where consumers feel like there are no reliable appliances left on the market? The answer, much like for many societal issues, is to reduce our dependence on large retailers that sell builder-grade products and fail to service what they sell. Instead, consider purchasing from local dealers who are capable of resolving issues effectively. As a community, we need to support these businesses, sharing our patronage with companies that keep everything running smoothly. Back in the 90s, there were nearly twice as many servicing appliance dealers as there are today. This decline has significantly reduced the servicing network that once helped manufacturers stay out of trouble. Nowadays, most appliances are sold by companies that have little regard for their customers; if a product is unsatisfactory or breaks down, the big box store simply returns it and makes the manufacturer take it back.

Sargent’s has weathered all these changes, through the ups and downs, and we’re still here, working tirelessly every day to keep our customers satisfied. If you're looking for a trustworthy company to work with, consider giving Sargent’s in Fernley a try.