Sooner or later, every piece of equipment breaks down. To extend its life and keep it in tip-top condition, proper maintenance and repair are indispensable. Since maintenance is a year-round affair and consumers are regularly confronted with repair issues, they turn to the home, appliance, auto, electronics and other specialized experts. Here are some valuable resources on the types of services offered by the various repair technicians:
1. Appliance repair
Full-service appliance repair companies service major brands of appliances and specialize in prolonging the lives of appliances such as:
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Washers and dryers
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Refrigerators
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Dishwashers
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Microwaves
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Ice makers
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Stoves
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Garbage disposals
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Garbage compactors
Parts and workmanship are usually guaranteed; generally, parts have a one-year warranty. Consumers should choose an appliance repair company that supplies a price quote prior to commencing the work. Flat-rate pricing, whereby the fee depends on the level of the repair work's complexity, is common. Service calls are frequently gratuitous with repair. Many companies offer senior discounts.
2. Air-conditioning repair and heating repair
Most air-conditioning and heating repair companies service both commercial and residential clients and schedule both daytime and evening appointments. Many offer a 24/7 emergency repair service. Customers should shop around for a fully-licensed and insured company with a proven track record and employees who are certified by the National Comfort Institute. The majority of air-conditioning and heating repair companies offer a written warranty on their service repairs.
3. Electronics repair
Electronics repair shops will generally service all models and major brands of electronics at affordable rates. Among the services they provide either on-site or in-shop are:
4. Camera repair
At quality camera repair businesses, each technician is a specialist in a specific type and brand of camera. This results in a greater proficiency in servicing the equipment and contributes to a lower repair cost for the customer. Camera repair shops provide digital camera repair as well as camera lens repair and services all video camera formats, such as NTSC and PAL.
5. Phone repair
Phone repair companies repair all types of phones from VOIP and cordless to home phones, antique phones and cellular phones. Repairs usually come with a 30-day warranty. New designation strips, plastic covers and handset cords, as well as refurbishing are usually included in the cost of repair. Customers should make sure that there are no hidden fees.
6. Auto repair
Certified technicians at body shops provide servicing for both domestic and foreign cars. It is not unusual to find a disparity in auto repair estimates. Consumers should ensure that all repairs are backed by a lifetime workmanship warrantee. The majority of auto repair shops offer extended hours, early-bird drop-off, and Saturday service. They also have a waiting area and place a rental car or towing service at customers' disposal. Most body shops offer a comprehensive range of services, including:
7. Mobile home repair
RV repair companies service all aspects of the interior and exterior of motor coaches and motor homes, including (1) window repair, (2) roofs, (3) counter tops, (4) side wall panels, (5) bumpers, (6) cabinetry, (7) water lines, (8) electric brakes, (9) gas systems, and (10) bath tubs. Many provide road service by sending out a service truck to pick up a customer's RV that has broken down.
8. Watch repair
Watch repair facilities typically service all types (i.e. chronograph and tuning fork) and brands of watches. Many offer free technical assistance for clients' repair needs. Cleaning an ordinary wrist or pocket watch typically costs from $50 to $150. More sophisticated watches such as chronographs, as well as brands that are unique or have costly parts such as the luxury Swiss watches, command a higher price.
9. Furniture repair
Many furniture repair shops offer on-site services, such as (1) refinishing and polishing, (2) repair and stabilization of the furniture's structure, (3) antique restoration, (4) revitalization of wooden pieces and expensive furniture, and (5) color matching. Furniture repair companies wipe out water rings, dents, gouges and scuffs. They can even restore pieces that are damaged by water or fire or that are broken.
10. Home improvement and repair
Many full-service building and remodeling companies offer a wide array of affordable services to homeowners, such as (1) roof repair, (2) chimney repair, (3) plumbing repair, and (4) home foundation work. Consumers should inquire as to whether the home improvement contractors are insured and bonded and ensure that quality building materials are utilized.