5 Essential Do's and Don'ts from My Journey of Finding Appliance Repair in Toronto GTA

Pavel Haimovich
May 12
3 min read

Nothing throws your day off like a malfunctioning appliance. I’ve been there, staring at a washing machine that refused to spin and opening a fridge that felt warmer than my living room. Living in the busy and competitive Toronto GTA area, I’ve learned that not all appliance repair services are created equal. After dealing with several repairs over the years, I’ve gathered some hard-won wisdom that could save you time, money, and stress.

Here’s my personal list of essential dos and don’ts plus a few facts to help you make smarter choices when your appliances go rogue.

DO: Research Like Your Wallet Depends on It (Because It Does)

Before you start calling repair companies, spend some time researching options in the Toronto GTA. A quick online search can provide many insights into each company. Look for customer reviews on websites like Google and Yelp. For example, a company with an average rating of 4.5 stars or higher can be a promising choice, while one with frequent complaints and lower ratings (below 3 stars) might signal trouble ahead.

Be sure to check that the technicians are licensed and insured. This will help you avoid losing money or facing problems down the line. A qualified technician will have the right training and experience to handle repairs safely and efficiently.

DON’T: Jump at the First Option

I made this mistake once, I picked the first company that popped up on Google, only to have the technician ghost me after half-fixing the issue.

Take your time. Gather at least three quotes. Ask for a clear breakdown of labour costs, parts, and potential additional charges. And be wary of rock-bottom prices; they can indicate inexperience or shortcuts.

Pro Tip: A slightly more expensive company that offers a written warranty is often the better long-term investment.

DO: Ask Smart Questions Upfront

Think of this like interviewing someone to care for your home. Some key questions I now always ask:

Are your technicians certified and insured?
Do you provide a written estimate before starting?
What kind of warranty do you offer on parts and labour?
Is your business incorporated or a solo operation?

An incorporated business often means better accountability and a more structured support system. I once dealt with a solo freelancer who vanished three weeks later when the repair failed, no callback, no refund, no help.

DON’T: Overlook Communication Red Flags

If you struggle to get a clear answer on the phone or wait days for an email response, walk away. A good company keeps you in the loop from start to finish.

During one repair, I was impressed when the technician called mid-job to explain a surprise issue and walk me through the options. That kind of transparency builds trust.

DO: Look for Value Beyond Price

A cheap repair today might become an expensive headache tomorrow. Instead, look for companies that stand behind their work with warranties, follow-up services, and flexible scheduling.

Fact: The average warranty for appliance repairs in Canada is 30 to 90 days. Anything less should be a red flag.

Extra perks to consider:

Free diagnostic if you proceed with the repair
Follow-up check-ins or maintenance tips
Discounts on future repairs

DON’T: Ignore the Fine Print

Some companies sneak fees into the service agreement—fuel surcharges, weekend rates, or restocking fees for cancelled appointments. Always read the contract and ask for clarification. It's better to ask too many questions than be surprised by hidden costs.