On-Site Diagnosis and Quotation
A technician arrives at the customer's home, inspects the faulty appliance, diagnoses the problem, and explains the required repairs and associated costs.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
draining
The process of removing water or liquid from something, like a washing machine emptying water after a cycle.
lint filter
A screen or trap in appliances like washing machines that catches lint, hair, and small debris to prevent clogs.
pump
A device that moves fluids, such as water, in machines like washing machines to drain or circulate water.
drain hose
A flexible tube that carries water out from an appliance to a drain, often used in washing machines.
blockage
Something that obstructs or blocks the flow, like dirt or residue stopping water from draining.
faulty
Not working properly or broken, used to describe a part or machine that has a defect.
residue
Leftover substance, such as soap or detergent remains that can build up and cause problems.
warranty
A guarantee from the seller or repairer that covers repairs or replacement for a certain period if something goes wrong.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hi, thanks for coming. So, the washing machine isn't draining at all.
This is a polite way to greet a service person and describe the problem clearly. Use it when explaining an issue to a technician; 'isn't draining' uses present continuous for ongoing problems.
No problem at all. Let me have a look.
A friendly response to show willingness to help. 'Let me have a look' means 'allow me to inspect'; useful for professionals starting a task, with 'no problem' as a casual reassurance.
We've checked the lint filter, and that's clear.
This shares what you've already tried to fix the issue. 'That's clear' means it's not blocked; use in conversations to provide background and show you've done basic troubleshooting.
It sounds like there might be a blockage further down or the pump itself is faulty.
This explains a possible diagnosis politely. 'It sounds like' softens the statement; useful for suggesting causes without being certain, common in service talks.
For parts and labor, the total will be $180.
This quotes the cost breakdown. 'Parts and labor' refers to materials and work; use when giving repair estimates, with 'will be' for future certainty.
That includes a 90-day warranty on the new pump.
This adds details about guarantees. 'Includes' means it's part of the total; helpful for reassuring customers about post-repair support.
That sounds reasonable. Can you do it now?
Expresses agreement on price and asks for immediate action. 'Sounds reasonable' is a polite way to approve; use in negotiations to confirm and proceed.
I can get it done right away. It should take about an hour to an hour and a half.
This confirms quick service and estimates time. 'Get it done' means complete the repair; 'right away' means immediately, useful for setting expectations.