Sunday, November 8, 2009

Buying an Appliance Part

Buying nearly any appliance part will require a model #. Since all appliance parts are given a designated part #, this # must match the model it is suited for. Since most user manuals contain information on several models, it is important to get the model # directly from the appliance model tag. The first 2 digits of the serial # may also be needed for some parts as well, so always get that too. With this information, you can contact any parts house or research the web to find a part #. Be aware that some websites do not use the actual part #, but a private stock #. They do this to discourage price shopping, hoping to get rewarded for helping you find a needed part.
Finding your model tag depends on the appliance. See this FAQ page for some pointers:
http://www.timerking.com/servlet/the-template/faq/Page
Hope this helps!
Regards,
Jim B

Sunday, November 1, 2009

WHEN TO BUY A USED APPLIANCE PART

Used appliance parts have become popular as a result of many ebay sellers as well as other internet sites. sellers from major companies to the backyard mechanic have taken advantage of the widespread exposure avialable through low cost website selling. So when is it prudent to buy a used appliance part?

First, consider the real age of your appliance. If you run 7 loads of laundry a week and your machine is over 4 years old, a used part can be a wise moneysaving choice. A tested used part will likely outlive the machine. While cars last longer than they did 20 years ago, appliances have a much shorter lifespan, 7-8 years on average, than they used to.

Second, consider the cost of the part. If it costs $100 new and $60 used, the savings alone may be worth considering. The higher the price new, the greater the potential savings.

Third, consider the seller. On ebay, feedback and other seller ratings will tell you a whole lot about the integrity of the seller and whether or not you can expect good service and reliable warranty coverage. On private websites, the "about me" page can tell you about the seller's mission, policies, and philosophy. Look for straightforward facts and not bragging - braggarts tend to overpromise, while fact tellers are more likely to be flexible in providing support after the sale.

Finally, think about the environment. The first rule of recycling is to reuse. this makes sense because many resources are saved by reusing.

Hope this helps!

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Just remove the venting from both ends and run a damp rag through it. You can also do the same inside the chute coming out of the dryer. Be sure to clean your lint filter after every load for greater efficiency.

Monday, September 14, 2009

Welcome!

Fall is here - time to check the venting on your dryers and clean it out. Dryers are a major source of house fires. Newer dryers have a thermal fuse which is designed to blow after a time when venting gets restricted. This is a good safety, but if it blows a service call to replace it can cost from $60 to $100. Keeping the venting clear provides the safest and cheapest option. Enjoy the cool evenings!