Resources

How to Reset the Garbage Disposal

Never put your hand in the hopper (down the drain into the disposal) while it is running!

Step 1 - Turn the garbage disposal on and off quickly and check to see if it has power. If it hums, the power is on but the impeller is jammed. Move on to step 3. If it doesn’t hum, it may have overheated and tripped a circuit breaker. Move on to step 2.

Step 2 – Restore power to the machine. Most disposals have an overload switch that trips when the motor starts to overheat. To reset the switch, look for a small red button on the bottom of the housing, and push it in. If your disposal doesn’t have an overload switch or the machine still won’t run after you reset the switch, reset the circuit breaker that serves the disposal.

Step 3 – Clear the jam from underneath. On many disposals, you can insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench into the bottom of the housing and manually move the motor shaft and flywheel to dislodge the jam. If your disposal has an opening for an Allen wrench, insert the wrench and move it back and forth until the motor and flywheel turn freely.

Which Screws Will Not Rust

Brass, aluminum and stainless steel screws will not rust.

Essentials for Your Own Toolbox

• Screwdrivers: 1 Slotted and 1 Phillips head
• Claw Hammer: 16 oz. would be sufficient weight for most jobs
• Adjustable wrench
• Pliers
• Small Level
• Utility knife
• Retractable metal tape measure
• Safety goggles/glasses

Why Should You Unplug Small Appliances When Not in Use

Many small appliances made today continue to draw power, even when they are switched off. Nearly 20 percent of the electricity used by appliances is lost while they are in the standby mode, waiting to be used. Of course, the biggest standby loss of energy – sometimes referred to as “leaking electricity” – occurs in modern consumer electronics. Video equipment – TVs, DVD players, cable boxes and satellite dishes – account for the largest share of a home’s leaking electricity, roughly 35 percent.

For now, the only way a consumer can prevent some appliances from leaking electricity is to unplug them. When you realize that the typical home has three to 10 small appliances or electronics plugged in at every room at all times, the cost of electricity leakage adds up quickly.

Which Light Bulbs Should You Buy

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs.

Given that most estimates are that CFL bulbs are up to 70% more efficient, you may save as much as $100 over the life of the bulb.

How to Clean a Faucet Aerator

When a faucet has a weak or intermittent flow, the problem is often with the aerator. Aerators contain a fine wire screen that mixes water with air to provide an even flow. Over time this screen can become clogged with mineral deposits or debris, reducing the amount of water coming through.

To solve the problem, unscrew the aerator from the end of the faucet and soak it overnight in a cup of white vinegar. The acid in the vinegar will dissolve any deposits and make the aerator as good as new.

Why Should You Use a Deadbolt

These locks provide more security as the deadbolt latch is larger and goes farther into the doorframe. It can also be keyed on both sides for extra security.

How to Store Paint Brushes Between Painting Sessions

Place the wet paintbrush in a large ziplock or similar freezer bag and seal it. Place that bag inside another bag, such as a used plastic or paper shopping bag for double protection. Place the bag containing the paintbrush inside the refrigerator. This will prevent the paint from hardening, and your brush will be ready for use.

You can keep wet paintbrushes for weeks in this manner. Don’t use this method for oil-based paint as the fumes will contaminate your food in the refrigerator.