Common Issues with KitchenAid Stand Mixers: Identifying and addressing typical problems

KitchenAid stand mixers are among the most popular and reliable kitchen appliances on the market. They can help you whip up cakes, breads, cookies, and more with ease and efficiency. However, like any other appliance, they can also encounter some problems from time to time. In this article, we will discuss some of the common issues that KitchenAid stand mixer owners may face, and how to fix them or prevent them from happening. If issues arise with your Kitchen Aid refrigerator in Santa Barbara, know that our reputable partner stands ready to deliver quality service.

Issue #1: The mixer won’t turn on

One of the most frustrating issues that can happen with your KitchenAid stand mixer is when it won’t turn on at all. This could be due to several reasons, such as:

• A faulty power outlet: The first thing you should check is whether the power outlet that you are using is working properly. You can do this by plugging in another appliance or device into the same outlet and see if it works. If not, you may need to replace the outlet or reset the circuit breaker.
• A damaged power cord: The power cord of your mixer may have been damaged by wear and tear, or by accidental cuts or burns. You can inspect the cord for any visible signs of damage, such as fraying, cracking, or melting. If you find any, you should replace the cord immediately, as it could pose a fire hazard or an electric shock risk.
• A faulty speed control board: The speed control board is the part that regulates the speed and power of your mixer. It may malfunction due to overheating, moisture, or electrical surges. You can test the speed control board by using a multimeter to measure its resistance and voltage. If the readings are abnormal, you may need to replace the board.

Issue #2: The beater hits the bottom of the bowl

Another common issue that can affect your KitchenAid stand mixer is when the beater hits the bottom of the bowl, causing scraping noises, uneven mixing, or damage to the bowl or the beater. This could be due to several reasons, such as:

• An improper adjustment: The beater height of your mixer may need to be adjusted from time to time, depending on the type and size of the bowl and the beater that you are using. You can adjust the beater height by using a screwdriver to turn the screw located at the hinge pin of the mixer head. You can use a dime as a guide to measure the clearance between the beater and the bottom of the bowl. The beater should just clear the dime when it passes over it.
• A worn out or broken spring: The spring that holds the mixer head in place may become worn out or broken over time, causing the head to drop lower than it should. You can check the condition of the spring by lifting and lowering the mixer head several times and observing its movement. If it feels loose or wobbly, you may need to replace the spring.
• A bent or warped beater or bowl: The beater or the bowl of your mixer may become bent or warped due to excessive force, heat, or impact. You can check the shape of the beater and the bowl by placing them on a flat surface and looking for any gaps or irregularities. If you find any, you may need to replace them.

Issue #3: The mixer leaks oil

Another common issue that can occur with your KitchenAid stand mixer is when it leaks oil from the motor housing or the planetary assembly. This could be due to several reasons, such as:

• A normal occurrence: Some amount of oil leakage from your mixer is normal and expected, especially if you don’t use your mixer frequently or store it in a cold place. This is because the grease inside your mixer may separate into oil and solid components over time, and some of the oil may seep out through small gaps in the housing. This does not affect the performance or safety of your mixer, and you can simply wipe off any excess oil with a cloth.
• An excessive amount of grease: Your mixer may have been overfilled with grease at some point, either during manufacturing or during servicing. This may cause too much pressure inside your mixer, forcing some of the grease out through small gaps in the housing. You can fix this by opening up your mixer and removing some of the excess grease with a spatula or a paper towel.
• A worn out or damaged gasket: The gasket that seals the motor housing or the planetary assembly may become worn out or damaged over time, allowing some of the grease to leak out through larger gaps in the housing. You can fix this by replacing the gasket with a new one.

Issue #4: The mixer makes loud noises

Another common issue that can bother you while using your KitchenAid stand mixer is when it makes loud noises during operation. This could be due to several reasons, such as:

• A loose attachment: The attachment that you are using, such as the beater, the whisk, or the dough hook, may not be securely attached to the mixer shaft, causing it to wobble or rattle. You can fix this by pushing the attachment all the way onto the shaft and locking it in place with the locking pin.
• A worn out or broken gear: The gears that transmit the power from the motor to the mixer shaft may become worn out or broken over time, causing them to grind or skip. You can check the condition of the gears by opening up your mixer and inspecting them for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or missing teeth. If you find any, you may need to replace them.
• A loose or misaligned screw: The screws that hold the various parts of your mixer together may become loose or misaligned over time, causing them to vibrate or rub against each other. You can fix this by tightening or realigning the screws with a screwdriver.

Conclusion

KitchenAid stand mixers are durable and dependable appliances that can last for years with proper care and maintenance. However, they can also encounter some common issues that can affect their performance or functionality. By identifying and addressing these issues, you can keep your mixer in good shape and enjoy its benefits for a long time. If you need any help with repairing or replacing your KitchenAid stand mixer parts, you can contact us at appliancepulse.com. We are your trusted online source for all your appliance needs.

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Vacation Tips: Preparing your Sub-Zero appliance for extended non-use

If you are planning to go on a vacation for a long time, you might be wondering how to prepare your Sub-Zero appliance for extended non-use. Sub-Zero appliances are designed to keep your food fresh and safe, but they also need some care and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some tips on how to get your Sub-Zero appliance ready for your vacation.

1. Clean the condenser coils. The condenser coils are responsible for removing heat from the refrigerant and transferring it to the air. Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate on the coils, reducing their efficiency and causing the appliance to work harder and consume more energy. To prevent this, you should clean the condenser coils every three to six months, or more often if you have pets or a dusty environment. To clean the condenser coils, you will need a soft brush, a vacuum cleaner, and a flashlight. Follow these steps:
   • Unplug the appliance or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
   • Locate the condenser coils. They are usually behind a grille at the top or bottom of the appliance. Refer to your use and care guide for the exact location of your model.
   • Remove the grille by unscrewing or unclipping it.
   • Use the soft brush to gently brush away any dust or dirt from the coils. Be careful not to bend or damage the coils.
   • Use the vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dust or dirt from the coils and the surrounding area.
   • Replace the grille and secure it with screws or clips.
   • Plug in the appliance or turn on the power at the circuit breaker.
2. Check the door seals and hinges. The door seals and hinges are important for maintaining a tight seal between the appliance and the outside air. This prevents cold air from escaping and warm air from entering, which can affect the temperature and humidity inside the appliance. To check the door seals and hinges, follow these steps:
   • Open and close the door several times and observe how it aligns with the cabinet. The door should close smoothly and evenly without any gaps or sagging.
   • Inspect the door seals for any cracks, tears, or wear. The seals should be soft and pliable, not hard or brittle.
   • Clean the door seals with a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth. Wipe them dry with a clean cloth.
   • If you notice any problems with the door seals or hinges, contact a Factory Certified Service provider for repair or replacement.
3. Empty and clean the interior. Before you leave for your vacation, you should empty and clean the interior of your appliance to prevent any food spoilage, odors, or mold growth. Follow these steps:
   • Remove all food items from the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Discard any perishable or expired food, and store any non-perishable food in a cool and dry place.
   • Remove all shelves, drawers, bins, and baskets from the appliance and wash them with a mild soap and water solution. Rinse them well and dry them thoroughly.
   • Wipe down the interior walls, ceiling, floor, and door of the appliance with a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth. Pay special attention to any spills or stains that might harbor bacteria or mold.
   • If your appliance has an air purification filter, replace it with a new one or clean it according to your use and care guide.
   • If your appliance has a water filter, replace it with a new one or flush it with water according to your use and care guide.
   • Leave the doors slightly open to allow air circulation and prevent odors.
4. Adjust the temperature settings. If you are going to be away for more than four weeks, you can save energy by adjusting the temperature settings of your appliance. Follow these steps:
   • Set the refrigerator temperature to 38°F (3°C) or higher.
   • Set the freezer temperature to 5°F (-15°C) or higher.
   • If your appliance has an ice maker, turn it off by lifting up the wire arm or pressing the on/off switch.
   • If your appliance has a vacation mode, activate it by pressing the vacation button on the control panel.
5. Unplug the appliance or turn off the power. If you are going to be away for more than six months, you can further reduce energy consumption by unplugging the appliance or turning off the power at the circuit breaker. Follow these steps:
   • Empty and clean the interior as described in step 3.
   • Adjust the temperature settings as described in step 4.
   • Unplug the appliance from the wall outlet or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
   • Leave the doors slightly open to allow air circulation and prevent odors.
6. Arrange for someone to check on the appliance. Even if you follow all the steps above, it is still a good idea to have someone check on your appliance periodically while you are away. This can help you detect and prevent any potential problems, such as power outages, water leaks, or pest infestations. Ask a friend, neighbor, or relative to visit your home at least once a month and do the following:
   • Plug in the appliance or turn on the power at the circuit breaker.
   • Check the temperature and humidity settings and adjust them if necessary.
   • Check the door seals and hinges and make sure they are in good condition.
   • Check the condenser coils and clean them if necessary.
   • Check the interior for any signs of spoilage, odors, or mold.
   • Unplug the appliance or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
   • Leave the doors slightly open to allow air circulation and prevent odors.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Sub-Zero appliance will be ready for your return. Enjoy your vacation and rest assured that your appliance will keep your food fresh and safe for a long time. For more information on Sub-Zero appliances, visit their official website or contact their customer care experts.