Appliances
KITCHEN
Dirty dishes in the dishwasher? If dishes won't come clean in your dishwasher, the problem could be a clogged chopper assembly, which can restrict water flow.
Dishwasher won't start? Lights don't go on? The problem could simply be a blown thermal fuse inside the control panel. You can purchase a new fuse and fix the dishwasher yourself.
Freezer: If your freezer has stopped freezing and only works after it is unplugged, then plugged back in (rebooted), your problem may be a faulty thermal fuse, or thermistor. Here's how to check -- and replace it, if needed -- as well as the defrost sensor. Part 1 Part 2
Repair a toaster? Is it worth it? Find out what it takes in this two-part, instructional video. And be sure to check out the viewer comments for additional tips. Part 1 Part 2
Oven glass: Are ugly food spills staining the glass inside your oven door? Easily take apart your oven door and clean the glass inside and out! Caution: The door is heavy, so you may need two people to lift it out.
Refrigerator: If your refrigerator has stopped cooling and only works after it is unplugged, then plugged back in (rebooted), then your problem may be a faulty thermal fuse, or thermistor. Here's how to check -- and replace it, if needed. Part 1 Part 2
Refrigerator / freezer won’t cool? If you have a Samsung, the problem could be your compressor start relay, which is integrated into the motherboard. Here’s how to replace the motherboard.
BATHROOM
Noisy bathroom fan? Chances are you don't need to replace the entire unit. The blower wheel, or fan, may be loose on its axle. Here's how to replace the blower wheel.
DVD/CD PLAYERS
Jammed tray in your DVD or CD player? You might be able to fix it using the "Star Wars" technique! Or you might try a more workable suggestion below for the price of a plumbing part.
DVD or CD player won't open? Before shelling out money for a new one, try this simple repair for less than a couple of bucks! The part is easily obtainable at your home center or hardware store.
DEHUMIDIFIERS
Demystifying the dehumidifier: It's really just a simple machine once you get to know it! Understanding how it works can help you troubleshoot and identify any problems you may be having.
Demystifying the dehumidifier Part 2: Here's how to easily take yours apart for cleaning, maintenance or repairs. All you'll need are some basic tools -- like a screwdriver.
Demystifying the dehumidifier Part 3: If your dehumidifier ices up or freezes up, here's why and what you can do about it! You should have your dehumidifier running again in no time.
HEATING/COOLING
Electric stove heating unit: Have the "flames" gone out in your freestanding electric stove heating unit? Easily restore them with a pair of light bulbs and a screwdriver.
Geothermal heating: The condensate drain tube in your geothermal furnace/heating unit should be cleared of debris annually. Here's what to do and what could happen if you don't.
Outside combustion air: If you plan to use outside combustion air for your Blaze King or Princess woodstove, the outside air adapter might not fit correctly. Here's how to modify it so it will attach properly.
Outside combustion air: Here's one way to connect your Blaze King / Princess woodstove to outside combustion air. Outside combustion air can reduce the amount of indoor smoke from your wood stove.
LAMPS AND LIGHT-DUTY APPLIANCES
Replace the plug: Don't throw that lamp or light-duty appliance away just because there's a short in the electrical plug. For a few dollars, you can replace the plug yourself.
TELEVISION
Ready to "cut the cord?" Make this powerful, digital TV antenna and watch TV for free! Complete, detailed step-by-step instructions, right down to what size screws you need!
Set up your TV antenna! Here's how to set up your do-it-yourself digital TV antenna -- or most any TV antenna -- and how to configure your TV to receive antenna signals.
VACUUM CLEANER
Vacuum attachment stuck? You don't need to buy a new vacuum cleaner or a new hose. Easily free the latch on the attachment with a flat-blade screwdriver, and the attachment should come off.