Home appliances are big investments, so when they malfunction, you need appliance repair services you can trust. Whether it’s a leaky dishwasher, a broken garbage disposal, or a freezer that just won’t freeze, it’s important to get your appliances back to normal as soon as possible.

As you try to determine the best course of action, you may be wondering whether to call a local appliance repair company or seek service from the big box store where you bought your appliance. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two options, helping you make the best decision for your needs.

The Disadvantages of Big Box Stores

First, let’s define what exactly a big box store is. Big box stores are large retailers with many locations across the country. When it comes to appliances, you know who they are — think of the all-in-one store with the six-pointed yellow starburst, the orange home improvement center, or the bulk-products store with the famously cheap hot dogs.

While you may have gotten a great deal on your appliance from one of these big box stores, their follow-up service often leaves much to be desired. Disadvantages of choosing a big box store for appliance repairs include:

• Subpar customer service: Due to a higher volume of customers, you’ll often have to wait longer for the repairs you need — and that’s after the hassle of contacting their customer service department through an 800 number.
• Insufficient training: Technicians from big box stores may have varied levels of experience and training, so you never know what you’re going to get. They may be less familiar with older models or more uncommon repairs.
• Inferior quality: Big box stores’ number one priority is maximizing profits, even if it comes at the expense of quality. They may use generic replacement parts or cut corners during the repair process in order to reduce costs, impacting the longevity of your appliance.
• Higher costs: Big box stores often have higher overhead costs, which they pass down to you. Their service may seem like a great deal at first, but they are notorious for hidden fees and a lack of detailed breakdowns in quotes.
• Second-class warranties: Warranties, whether on the appliance itself or the repairs performed, may be less accommodating when provided by a large retailer. Plus, it can be challenging to deal with different technicians for follow-up repairs, potentially leading to inconsistent service.

Why You Should Work with a Local Appliance Repair Company

If you’re looking for quality repairs and highly skilled technicians who truly care about providing an excellent customer experience, you should consider seeking service from a local appliance repair company like Appliance E.M.T.

Personalized Customer Service

Local appliance repair companies are more likely to provide personalized and attentive customer service than large retailers. Working with a local appliance repair company gives you the opportunity to build long-term relationships with technicians, plus, you’ll typically get faster response times and more flexibility in scheduling.

Technician Expertise and Training

Local appliance repair companies often employ highly skilled and experienced technicians who are familiar with a wide variety of appliance brands and models. They might also have more experience with regional-specific issues.

Pricing and Transparency

Local appliance repair companies are more likely to offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees or unexpected costs. When you can directly communicate with the technician or business owner instead of jumping through hoops to talk to someone on a customer service line, you can get more accurate pricing information and quotes.

Supporting the Local Economy

Working with a local appliance repair company is an excellent way to contribute to the local economy and support your community. These businesses often invest back into the community, fostering economic growth. Most of the revenue from big box stores, on the other hand, goes to corporate headquarters rather than remaining local.

Local Appliance Repair from Appliance E.M.T.

As you weigh your options and decide on an appliance repair provider, consider your priorities. In most cases, it’s best to go with a local appliance repair company that has positive reviews and a strong reputation in your community. By choosing local appliance repair over service from  a big box store, you have the valuable opportunity to build a personal relationship with your technician and receive the personalized service you deserve. 

If your appliance is on the fritz, call Appliance E.M.T. for expert repairs. We are committed to providing you with everything you need to get your home back in working order.