Easy Fix:
Home Repair 101
For many women, home repair seems like an intimidating task. However, constantly waiting on our husbands to get to those annoying projects can become a real source of frustration for all involved. Being a stay-at-home mom often means that we must wear many hats throughout our day. Home repair, is just one more hat that is worth the wear when you realize how easy many projects can be.
The first thing we’ll look at is some basic principles about repair work.
1. If it works for you, it works. Though it’s always a good thing to do your research, there is not always going to be an “official” fix for small household repairs. Being willing to think “outside the box” can be a real advantage!
2. Electrical tape is the “official” fix for a crimped power cord or exposed wire. I know it seems too easy to be true but it’s true.
3. A do-it-yourself manual is not very useful if it stays on your shelf. Pull it out and look it over. You might be surprised by what you learn.
Ok, so with those things in mind, the first thing I will discuss is the lawn mower. One classic problem that inevitably arises with any lawn mower (if they are not maintained) is a clogged filter. Motors require air flow to function properly. When a filter gets clogged, the engine will try to start but will die quickly after starting. On most mowers, the filter is contained in an exterior box that will sit just off of the motor (often right next to the priming button). It may be held in place by a single screw, a knob of some kind or plastic tabs. However, because the air filter is something that should be cleaned regularly, it should be fairly obvious and easy to remove. If your filter has not been changed in a long time you should take the filter to a hardware store and purchase a replacement. If you’re in a bind and you can’t get a replacement right away, clean the filter off by shaking it out (this is messy but it works) or by using an air hose to blow the dirt out of it.
Once you have cleaned the air filter and put the mower back together again, try starting it again and see if you notice a difference. Chances are good that your mower will start faster and run more smoothly than it had before.
