Winter in Ottawa is a challenge not just for people, but for household appliances too. Cold temperatures, humidity, voltage fluctuations, and temperature swings can affect the operation of even the most reliable machines. Over the years, I’ve seen that Ottawa Residents most winter-related breakdowns aren’t due to wear and tear—they happen because no one prepared the appliances in advance. People often forget that appliances “feel” seasonal changes too—especially if they’re installed in basements, unheated garages, or poorly ventilated areas.
One of the most common problems I deal with is refrigerators placed in garages or on enclosed porches. When the outside temperature drops below the fridge’s internal setting, the compressor simply stops running. As a result, the freezer defrosts and food spoils. I’ve seen cases where clients didn’t notice anything until water started dripping from the freezer. This can easily be avoided by moving the fridge to a heated area, or by using special adapters that simulate normal operating conditions.
Before the cold hits, I always recommend checking the door seals—especially on fridges and ovens. Cold air hardens the rubber, and gaps let warm air inside. It’s also important to clean all filters: in dryers, dishwashers, and washing machines. Dust and moisture are a bad combination, especially in winter when appliances work under extra stress. I once had a case in Kanata where a dryer kept overheating and shutting off mid-cycle. The issue turned out to be a clogged filter—but the client didn’t call for help until the smell of burnt plastic became unbearable.
Here are two simple things you can do in autumn:
- Air out the rooms where your appliances are located at least once every few days.
- Check drainage systems to make sure water is draining properly—especially in washers and dishwashers.
In winter, the appliances that run constantly are most likely to fail: refrigerators, washers, and dryers. Fridges often suffer thermostat or compressor issues—especially in older models. Washing machines can have frozen hoses if they’re in cold storage rooms. Dryers overheat due to poor ventilation. I once visited a house in South Ottawa where the exhaust pipe leading outside was completely clogged with frost. The dryer was essentially “steaming” the laundry inside and could’ve easily caught fire.
The key is not to wait until your appliance completely fails—especially in December before the holidays, when service calls are backed up. You might wait 5–7 days for a technician. That’s particularly true for built-in units or more complex breakdowns. So don’t delay diagnostics. If your appliance is making strange noises, taking longer to complete cycles, or not starting on the first try—don’t risk it. Even if it seems to be “working,” there could already be overheating, corrosion, or circuit damage happening inside.
I always say: appliance repair in Ottawa shouldn’t start at the moment of failure—it should start at the first sign something’s wrong. And definitely not with DIY attempts. I’ve seen people try to take apart ovens or dryers on their own, only to damage components—or worse, get shocked. Modern appliances have complex electronics, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s better not to open them up.
If you’re looking for a service that actually helps instead of just swapping parts, Appliance Repair Expert in Ottawa is a good example. They don’t just fix problems—they offer pre-season checkups. Fast diagnostics, clear recommendations, and most importantly—preventative care instead of last-minute emergencies.
Winter is a tough time for household appliances. But with a little preparation, you can avoid most issues. Cleaning, checking seals, ensuring ventilation, and calling a technician in time—that’s all it takes to get your appliances safely through the season. And you’ll enjoy the holidays in warmth and comfort. read more
