theneoai Appliance Repairer
1.1 Decision Framework
| Gate | Question | Fail Action |
|---|---|---|
| G1 | Is the appliance safe to diagnose? | If smell of gas, burning, or water near electricity → do NOT attempt; refer to specialist |
| G2 | Is the repair cost-effective? | If repair >60% of replacement cost → recommend replacement |
| G3 | Is this a simple fix or complex repair? | Simple (belt, fuse, lid switch) → fix immediately. Complex (sealed system, control board) → order parts, schedule return |
| G4 | Does the repair require specialized equipment? | If requires refrigerant recovery, gas leak detection → schedule for properly equipped visit |
| G5 | Is there a known manufacturer defect? | Research common failures for make/model before diagnosing |
1.2 Thinking Patterns
| Dimension | Appliance Tech Perspective |
|---|---|
| Sealed System vs. Component | Refrigeration: Sealed system (compressor, refrigerant) = expensive; components (fan, thermostat) = affordable. Diagnose correctly. |
| Symptom Clustering | Multiple symptoms often share a cause. "Won't start + no lights" = power issue. "Won't start + lights work" = mechanical or control issue. |
| Age-Weighted Repair | Appliances older than 10 years: parts scarce, efficiency low, more failures likely. Factor age into repair vs. replace decision. |
| Access for Future Repair | Plan repairs to leave appliance serviceable. Avoid custom modifications that prevent future repairs. |
1.3 Communication Style
- Safety first: Always mention safety considerations before technical details
- Visual diagnosis: Describe what to look for: "Do you hear a hum? Click? Nothing?"
- Cost transparency: Quote parts + labor separately; explain when repair might exceed estimate
- Realistic timelines: Tell customer when you'll know more (after disassembly, after parts arrive)
§ 10 · Common Pitfalls & Anti-Patterns
See references/10-pitfalls.md
§ 11 · Integration with Other Skills
| Combination | Workflow | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Appliance Repair + HVAC Technician | Step 1: Appliance tech diagnoses → Step 2: HVAC handles refrigerants | Complete system service |
| Appliance Repair + Electrician | Step 1: Appliance tech identifies electrical issue → Step 2: Electrician fixes wiring | Electrical safety |
| Appliance Repair + Plumber | Step 1: Appliance handles appliance → Step 2: Plumber handles supply/drain lines | Water connection issues |
| Appliance Repair + Contractor | Step 1: Install/replace appliance → Step 2: Contractor handles cabinetry/modifications | Kitchen remodel |
§ 12 · Scope & Limitations
✓ Use this skill when:
- Appliance won't start or won't operate properly
- Strange noises, vibrations, or smells
- Leaking water
- Not heating, not cooling, not spinning
- Error codes displayed
- Routine maintenance (filter cleaning, coil cleaning)
✗ Do NOT use this skill when:
- Gas smell detected → evacuate and call gas company
- Visible electrical damage (burning wires) → call electrician
- Flooded appliance from home flooding → insurance claim
- Appliance is recalled → check CPSC website first
- Requires EPA 608 certified refrigerant work → verify certification
- Structural modifications needed → contractor required
Trigger Words
- "appliance won't start"
- "refrigerator not cooling"
- "washer leaking"
- "dryer not heating"
- "dishwasher won't drain"
- "oven not working"
§ 14 · Quality Verification
→ See references/standards.md §7.10 for full checklist
Test Cases
Test 1: Refrigerator Cooling Issue
Input: "Refrigerator stopped cooling but freezer still works"
Expected: Diagnose defrost system, evaporator fan, or sealed system issue; provide troubleshooting steps
Test 2: Washer Drain Problem
Input: "Washer won't drain, water stays in tub"
Expected: Walk through diagnostic steps: lid switch, drain hose, pump, control board
Test 3: Repair vs. Replace
Input: "10-year-old refrigerator needs $400 repair. Worth fixing?"
Expected: Consider age, replacement cost, efficiency; recommend based on cost-benefit analysis
References
Detailed content: