Our washing machine broke last week and the first thought was to buy a replacement but I wanted to at least attempt a repair first.

The machine would still fill and empty water, but the dishes remained dry and there was a burning smell. So, I unplugged it, tipped it over and popped open the bottom cover.

Aside from the controller, the dishwasher was very simple: a drainage pump, a circulation pump, a heating element and some solenoid valves. A multimeter showed the (main suspect) circulation pump still had continuity which narrowed the search down to the pump’s starting capacitor. Seven euros and a few days later and it’s back in action!

The simple fix really gave me a sense of joy and satisfaction. It feels great to extend the use of something that I already have rather than need to consume more.

Can anyone relate? Any good repair stories?

I’m a big fan of the right to repair movement.

  • lapislazuli@sopuli.xyz
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    1 year ago

    Congrats, I hope it stays fixed! I can’t repair anything, but I support the movement in principle. I usually try to take good care of the things I own and buy things which with replaceable parts (think headphones) or things which are more ecological (think traditional wet shaving with a DE razor). Actually, come to think of it, I might try to repair my headphones. Something that can’t be replaced broke – part of the headband near the ear cups but I think I can fix it with tape.

    • cizra@lemm.ee
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      11 months ago

      Straight razor user here! Nothing cuts through a week-old beard like a straight razor. DE razor (which I also own and use) barely manages - I have to unscrew and flush it every now and then. The new fancy cartridge-based ones with 17 blades just clog instantly.

      As for hoarding shaving soap - that happens when you promote a tool into a hobby.

      • lapislazuli@sopuli.xyz
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        11 months ago

        Promoting a tool into a hobby is a succinct way to put it. Something I’m guilty of, nonetheless…