The pandemic quickly created conditions for a national appliance shortage last year, and it continues to endure with a shortage of parts. Global factory closures last year created shortages of crucial parts. This is causing delays to many home appliance repairs waiting for fixes.
The increased time spent at home during the pandemic has resulted in more intensive use of appliances. Parts created overseas are hard to come by such as magnetron tubes for microwaves and compressors for refrigerators/freezers are very hard for stores to get in stock.
What do you do if your appliance doesn’t work, parts are delayed? Check to see if you one-year manufacturer warranty is coming to an end. If it has past the Better Business Bureau says:
- Make sure you have an official case number with the manufacturer
- Ask if they will extend the warranty if you’re waiting on pandemic delayed parts and delayed repair attempts
- Get the name of the representative you’re dealing with on the phone and follow up in writing with an email
Experts have noted the pandemic revealed vulnerabilities of supply chain spread out across the globe. Suppliers are seeing shortages in stainless steel, a major component of appliances, and insulation used in refrigerators. Be patient, experts say this could last for another six months.
