Deciding to repair an appliance.

For the most part, most of the repairs that I suggest for you to consider are simple to complete with some assembly. Items like appliance handles, filters, door hardware, stove elements, and the parts inside of the dishwasher compartment, usually don't require advanced skills or tools. Most are simply to remove and replace the broken part with minimum tools. Most households have screw drivers, some sort of wrench, utility knife, etc. Several of the tools that come in handy are, a bright mini flashlight, multipurpose screwdriver, an assortment kit containing socket and screw remover bits, needle nose pliers, Lineman's pliers, and some adjustable wrenches, one being a slip joint kind.

What is your ability with putting things together? If you struggle with replacing a printer ink cartridge, then it would be best to get someone else to attempt the repair. Many components inside of an appliance requires removing covers and other components to get to the defective part, this is where skill level and ability should be considered before attempting the repair. One thing great about social media is the ability to watch videos on how to diagnose the problem with the device and how to replace the problematic part. Some repairs are just too difficult and pose the danger of injury or damage and are worth the cost of a new unit or hiring a professional to do it.

The most important thing to consider is Safety, Sheet metal edges are very sharp and cut skin easily. Some electrical components store a charge and can shock you if not properly discharged. ALWAYS remove and verify the power is off while replacing electronic components, The same goes for water and gas appliances, always turn the valves off and verify that it is off. Water and gas leaks often create damage or danger very quickly and double checking to verify that they are turned off is well worth the extra time and effort. Some repairs require PPE, Personal Protective Equipment, like gloves and eye protection to protect you from injury. The one safety component that is often overlooked is being in a hurry and not completing the repair correctly or not taking the preventive steps needed to keep yourself safe.

There are repairs that must be done by a professional, which is the only option. For example, at an apartment complex that I worked at, we were replacing old over the stove microwaves rather than repairing them and they required a higher electrical circuit breaker, we had no choice but to have an electrician upgrade the electrical circuit. A good rule of thumb is, if it's part of something inside the wall or poses immediate danger if something goes wrong, hire a professional. If doing the repair has potential danger, you have no choice but to hire a professional.