Got a broken cooker, a cold fridge, or a noisy washing machine? You don’t have to rush to buy a new one. A lot of common faults can be fixed for pennies if you know the right steps. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice that helps you decide when to roll up your sleeves and when calling a pro saves you cash in the long run.
First, figure out if the problem is something you can safely tackle. Simple parts like a faulty oven element, a broken hob burner, or a loose extractor fan are perfect DIY projects. Our guide on How to Replace an Oven Element Yourself walks you through the tools you need, safety checks, and the exact steps to get that oven heating again. If the fix only involves unplugging a connector or swapping a cheap part, you’ll likely spend under £20 and finish in under an hour.
On the other hand, anything involving gas, high voltage, or sealed systems (think boilers or heat pumps) is best left to a qualified engineer. Trying to fix a gas boiler yourself can be dangerous and could end up costing more if you damage it further. In those cases, a quick call for a professional quote often ends up cheaper than a botched DIY job.
Here are three fast fixes that pop up in many of our articles and can extend the life of your appliances:
1. Clean the coils and filters. A fridge that’s running but not cooling usually just needs a coil clean. Dust on the back or bottom coils makes the compressor work harder, leading to higher electricity bills and eventual breakdown. Grab a vacuum brush, turn the fridge off, and give those coils a good wipe.
2. Reset thermostats and sensors. Hot water not heating? Often a simple reset of the water heater’s thermostat does the trick. Our piece on Common Reasons Why You Keep Resetting Your Water Heater explains how to check for faulty sensors before calling a plumber.
3. Replace worn seals and gaskets. The dishwasher and washing machine both rely on good seals to keep water where it belongs. Over time the rubber can crack, causing leaks and noisy cycles. Swapping the seal is cheap—usually under £15—and it stops water damage and saves you from a costly service call.
When you spot a problem, do a quick online search for a step‑by‑step guide. Most of the posts on this tag, like the guide on fixing a stuck heat pump or swapping a kitchen extractor fan, break the process down into bite‑size actions you can follow.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to avoid buying a new appliance; it’s to keep the old one safe and efficient. A well‑maintained fridge, oven, or washing machine uses less energy, which means lower utility bills too.
If you ever feel stuck, a short phone call to a local repair service can give you a clear price before any work starts. Knowing the exact cost lets you compare the repair price with the cost of a new unit, helping you make a truly cost‑effective decision.
In short, a little knowledge and a few basic tools go a long way. Check the simple fixes first, follow the step‑by‑step guides, and call a pro only when needed. You’ll keep your appliances humming and your wallet happy.
Deciding whether to repair an electric oven after five years can be tricky, especially with advancing technology and evolving household needs. This article explores the practical aspects of oven repair, including cost-benefit analyses, common issues, and DIY tips to help inform your decision. By understanding key factors like repair costs versus replacement options, you can make an informed choice. Learn how to assess the condition of your oven and get tips on when professional help might be needed.
Ever got frustrated with cold showers while waiting for your hot water heater to get fixed? This article breaks down how long it really takes to repair different types of water heaters, from common issues you can fix yourself to problems that call for a pro. You'll learn what affects the repair timeline, plus some quick tips to speed things up. No more second-guessing if you’ll be stuck with icy water all day. Get the facts so you can plan around your next repair.
When your microwave starts making strange noises or fails to heat your food, it might be time to think about the magnetron. It's like the heart of your microwave, but is it worth the trouble to replace it or should you just buy a new one? This article explores the costs, benefits, and the nitty-gritty of magnetron replacement, throwing in some pro tips to help you make the right decision.
When your dishwasher starts acting up, a quick, accurate diagnosis can save you from bigger headaches and pricey repairs. This article walks through simple methods to spot dishwasher problems, from weird noises to stubborn leaks. You'll learn what to check first, how to tell if it's a DIY fix, and when it's time to call in a pro. Handy tips and real-life examples make this guide easy to follow, even if you're not a born handyman. Don't let a small hiccup become a kitchen disaster — know what to look for and act fast.
Find out why your tumble dryer isn't spinning and learn step-by-step fixes for common dryer problems. Stay informed with practical tips and real solutions.
Deciding whether to repair or replace a refrigerator can be a puzzling task for most homeowners. Factors like the age of the fridge, the cost of repairs, and energy efficiency play crucial roles in this decision. Getting a new fridge might seem attractive with the latest features, but sometimes repairing your old one is the better choice. Before making a move, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed choice.