DIY Appliance Repair: Quick Fixes & When to Call a Pro

That washing machine drum making a weird noise? You're not alone. Most people try to fix it themselves first—sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Here's what actually saves you time and cash, straight from real Taunton households.

Start with the easy stuff. If your electric hob suddenly stops working, try resetting it first. Flip the kitchen circuit breaker off for 30 seconds, then back on. Many hobs just need a quick reboot—no plumber needed. Same goes for fans: if your bathroom extractor fan dies, check if it's just clogged with hair and dust. A quick wipe might get it spinning again.

When DIY Actually Works

For simple fixes, you’ve got this. Flushing your water heater every 6 months stops sediment build-up (a common cause of leaks). Just turn off the power, attach a hose to the drain valve, and let it run for 10 minutes. It’s messy but doable. Same with washing machines: if it won’t spin, check for socks stuck in the drum. Pull them out, restart it, and boom—fixed.

When to Stop and Call a Pro

But here’s the thing: some fixes can backfire. If your boiler’s leaking or your gas oven won’t light, don’t mess with it. That’s not a DIY moment—it’s a safety risk. We’ve seen too many people try to fix gas appliances and end up with bigger problems. The same goes for water heaters with rusted tanks: replacing the anode rod might work, but if the tank’s cracked? You need a pro. Trying to patch it yourself could flood your kitchen.

Also, check the cost. Replacing a washing machine drum can cost £300+—but if your machine’s over 10 years old, it’s often cheaper to replace it. We’ve helped Taunton families decide this when their repair bills hit £250 for a £400 machine. A quick call to us saves you from a headache.

Bottom line: try the simple fixes first. If it’s not working after 10 minutes, stop. Call a local pro instead of risking more damage. We’re here to help with quick, honest advice—no hidden fees, no pressure. Just get your appliances running again, fast. Taunton’s your home, and we’re your neighbors fixing things, not just selling services.

Extractor Fan Installation: Can You Really Do It Yourself?

Posted by Orin Trask
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Extractor Fan Installation: Can You Really Do It Yourself?

Thinking about installing an extractor fan? This article breaks down what it really takes to put one in yourself. Learn the practical steps, the common challenges most folks overlook, and safety tips that might make you reconsider tackling it solo. Get clear about what’s actually involved and see if it’s the right DIY job for you. No unnecessary jargon—just straight talk and handy advice.

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