APPLIANCE CHECK LIST

Here are some quick and easy possible solutions when one of your appliances acts up. Some of these solutions may sound silly as cheap as it is to replace the smaller ones. Just remember that if you want to save money and stretch those dollars it is definitely worth trying to fix it first.

APPLIANCE	PROBLEM	SOLUTION
Food Mixer or Blender	Will not run.	Could be a dirty or defective speed control. Clean or replace.
Washing Machine	Will not run on all settings.	Could be defective control switch, try replacing.
	Tub does not fill.	Water hoses could be blocked. Check for kinks or pinches in hoses.
	Tub does not drain.	Drain hose may be blocked or kinked.
	No spin cycle.	Drive belt may be loose or broken. Check and replace. Also check lid switch for contact.
	Washer vibrates.	Could be uneven load distribution. Machine may not be completely level.
Coffee Maker – Electric percolator	Lukewarm water	Check thermostat and replace if necessary. Circular unit located in base.
Refrigerator	Interior not cold enough	Could be inadequate ventilation. Make sure it sits not touching the wall. Also clean thoroughly the coils in the back and underneath.
Dishwasher	Dishes not clean	Water may not be hot enough, check the temperature on hot water heater.
Electric Dryer	Does not start	Door interlock switch may be defective. Replace if necessary.
	Does not heat	Heating element may be defective. Thermostat may be defective. Check and replace if necessary.
	Does not rotate	Drive belt is broken or drum is sticking. Check both and repair.
Electric Can Opener	Slow running	The cutting edge may be dull or chipped. Sharpen and replace.
	Noisy	The gears may be defective. Lubricate or replace.
Portable Fan	Fan erratic or slow	Clean and lubricate the motor bearings.
	Fan vibrates	Blades may be unbalanced, clean off all accumulated dirt. If blades are bent realign.
Vacuum Cleaner	Little suction, motor sounds normal	The exhaust outlet may be blocked, clean or replace filter.
Sewing Machine	Slow and noisy	Clean and lubricate following manufacturers’ instructions.
Waffle Iron	Too much or too little heat	Check thermostat, clean or replace if necessary.
	Waffles stick to grill	Grill not seasoned, brush with cooking oil and heat for 30 minutes.
Toaster	Toast will not pop up	Bread may be caught in wires, unplug; remove bread. Shake out crumbs.
	Toast too light or too dark	Linkage from color control may be broken or loose. Check that sliding parts are properly connected and replace if necessary.

Using these solutions many of your household appliances can be repaired and last for another week, month, or year. All you invest is a little time and a small amount of money. Saving money that’s what Penny Pinching Grandma is all about.

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