Move the refrigerator out from the wall. Unplug the refrigerator power cord, and turn OFF the water supply to the icemaker.
Using hand tools, remove screws and discard the defective water supply valve. When installing a water supply valve on the water heater, install only on the cold-water side of the water heater. Read the rest of this entry »
Most labour-saving household appliances contain an electric motor of some description. They are the workhorse of these appliances and most of them are capable of coping with the work loads inflicted upon them. However, some motors, either through poor design or as a result of manufacturers’ cost limitations, are inadequate for the job they are required to do. Adequate or not, at some point it is almost inevitable that they will fail or simply wear out. To delay this, use the appliance with some care and attention, be aware of its limitations and carry out regular inspection and servicing. This will prevent small problems escalating into major ones
Not only do the sizes of motors vary greatly between products, so too do the ways in which they work. To diagnose faults successfully and service or repair appliances, a working knowledge of motors is essential. The following provide a basic introduction to the various types, a description of how they work, the appliances in which each may be found and their particular advantages and drawbacks. Specific problems can be found on individual appliances. Read the rest of this entry »
The information given here also applies to the grills on many cookers. This is a simple way to ascertain if the control is faulty. Short circuit failures on elements may damage regulators in which case, if you are in any doubt, renew it.
The following test is for a single circuit application, that is, a single element. For double regulators, that is, a double element, the same procedure will be required on both single and double operations of the switch. From off position an anticlockwise turn will put into circuit one element (usually the inner), a clockwise turn from the off position will put into circuit both inner and outer. Check that double regulators operate independently on a half turn each. For singles, use ony a full turn. Read the rest of this entry »
The humble kettle has been given a new image in recent years. Simple versions consisting of only a container with a heating element fixed inside are still available, but for many years the trend has been towards the automatic kettle that turns off once the water has boiled.
Some more recent models have been further improved with high-speed elements and spout filling. The latest jug version combines all the features of a modern kettle with the added feature of the handle’s being positioned on the side, so that the user avoids the steam when pouring.
As with irons, cable damage through wear and tear and misuse tends to be a common fault. Cordless kettles and jugs preempt this problem. They are similar to cordless irons in that they require a power base that has its own mains lead. When the cordless kettle is placed on its base, electrical contact is made to its heating element. The operation from then on is like any other automatic kettle. Read the rest of this entry »
The brush roll is supported on bearings at each end so the barrel rotates freely. Types of bearings, barrels and brushes differ from model to model as well as between manufacturers. Some manufacturers supply individual parts for the brush roll, such as brush strips, bearings and barrel; others supply only complete assemblies. The brush roll on some models may have removable brush strips, whereas others may be a solid brush roll of wood or plastic with fixed brushes. A small selection is shown here to highlight the differences. Read the rest of this entry »
The upright style of vacuum cleaner is perhaps the best for large areas of carpet. It is especially good at removing dirt embedded within the pile and pet hairs from the surface, even on sculptured carpets. A drawback with the basic upright cleaner is its difficulty with cleaning stairs. The problem has been overcome with the modern combination of upright and cylinder cleaner. This type may be the best option if you have large areas of fitted carpet and staircases. The motor within the upright cleaner creates the airflow (suction) and drives a rotating brush roll, often called an agitator barrel. Read the rest of this entry »
The domestic vacuum cleaner has been with us now for some 90 years, during which time it has become the most popular labour-saving appliance in the home. The basic principle of operation is quite simple. An electric motor drives fans to create a fast-moving air flow. At one end, a vacuum (suction) of air is created, while at the opposite end the air is exhausted. If the air is moved quickly enough at the inlet end, it will carry with it any debris that enters the airflow. A means of removing the debris from the airflow is required to prevent its redistribution as the air is expelled. Read the rest of this entry »
Cord rewinds are now found on all types of cleaners, from simple hand-operated versions to the fully automatic rewind at the touch of a button. Many auto cord rewind systems use open coil springs and great care should be exercised if a stripdown of these systems is called for. Protection for the eyes is recommended. Goggles afford adequate protection from the spring itself or any item that it may throw out in the event of its slipping from position.
Operation of the cord rewind relies on tensioning of the rewind spring as the cord is pulled out for use. A small brake pad prevents the immediate return of the spring and cord drum to its original position. Read the rest of this entry »
