Can I Fix a Home Appliance Problem Myself
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When faced with a problem in our homes, it’s tempting to reach for the phone and call a maintenance specialist. However, you may spend more money and time than if you just tried to fix the problem yourself. Sometimes unscrewing a lightbulb is as easy as turning on your faucet, but stubborn clogs or broken springs are difficult to tackle on your own.
Repairing a coffeemaker, or dryer is easier than you might imagine. Still, many appliances, such as an oven, refrigerators, or washing machines, will be too challenging to repair alone. If you have a device that’s no longer working correctly, there are some things you can do to rectify the situation and save money in the long run.
Leaking Fridge Fixes
Sometimes, the best way to deal with a leaky fridge is to fix it yourself. The first thing you should do is make sure the internal parts are still in working order. Check that the seal on your fridge is properly in place and that the screws are tight (tighten them if they’re loose).
If you suspect any of these things, don’t risk trying to reseal the refrigerator yourself. Contact a technician to help fix your leaking appliance instead.
Dryer Fixes
What do you do if your dryer stops working? If this is the case, consult the repair manual, or look online for troubleshooting basics. For example, if you can see the drum inside your dryer, there’s probably a gas leak or something wrong with it.
If you feel overwhelmed by the problem, contact an Auburn appliance repair service. A team of experts can come out and solve the issue at hand. If you decide to call the professionals, use this opportunity to learn as much as you can from them. Watch how they tackle the problem and ask any questions you may have.
Clean a Clothes Dryer Vent
Dryer vents are often overlooked but can quickly become clogged with dust and lint. Even if your dryer seems to be doing its job, you should periodically clean the vent. To do this, remove the vent from the back of your dryer.
Use a flexible brush to remove any loose lint or dust from the vent, and then wipe it down with an all-purpose cleaner or soap and water. You can also buy a special dryer vent cleaning brush if you have trouble reaching the vent.
Central Air Conditioning Fixes
If you have central AC, there’s a good chance that your heating and cooling system is connected to a wall thermostat. This device can control the temperature in your home, but it may also mean that the air you’re breathing is not very clean. One of the best ways to fix this problem is by installing an air purifier in your home.
You don’t need to be a professional to do this as long as you have some electrical or plumbing experience. If you’re dealing with a relatively easy problem, such as a faulty thermostat, or part that’s not working, it may be easier for you to call the contractor.
Test Your A/C Unit
Leaks can damage your air conditioning unit and reduce its efficiency. The most common leak areas are the hose connections, air filters, and condenser coils.
To test your unit for leaks, use a piece of duct tape to cover the suspected leak areas. If there’s a leak, you should be able to see signs that the video will have absorbed moisture or become less sticky.
Clean Air Filters
Particles that accumulate in the air ducts, and filters can eventually cause the air conditioning unit to produce less or no airflow. When your air conditioner is forced to work harder, it uses more electricity, leading to higher utility bills.
One of the easiest things you can do to improve your energy bill is to have your ducts cleaned every few months. Your contractor should be able to provide a list of recommended cleaning agents, but dryer sheets work well (they’re inexpensive and easy on the allergens).
Contact a Professional Repairs Company
If all else fails, or if you wish to have expert guidance from the onset of the problem, contact a professional repair company from your area. An appliance repair expert can also offer you valuable tips on how to detect and handle future problems that may arise.
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This content is brought to you by Katherine Webre
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