Tools used in Appliance Repair

Most of the appliances in homes are taken for granted. However, they do wear out, break down and just plain old give up. Whether the appliance is in the warranty period or not, the owner can perform many of the repairs needed. They do not take that much time and can save you a lot of money. A good set of tools will help you to achieve that.

Tools you can purchase or use if you already have them:

• An adjustable wrench set- You will usually require a wrench for appliance repairs. There is always something to take off and then put back on. A set of open and box end wrenches would be best. It also would not hurt to have a “spanner wrench.” Virtually all of these and what is listed below can be purchased at your local home improvement store.


• Screw driver set- You need a good set of screwdrivers (preferably with long shanks) for removing and replacing a variety of screws that hold things on the appliance or help hold it together. They will have to be both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers to accommodate the different types of screws in all appliances.


• Nut driver set- These manual drivers are used to remove and re-install nuts on bolts or screws. Depending on what appliance you are working on, you may need deep welled drivers as well. (Deep well means it has a “deeper” socket due to the length of the bolt or screw you are removing the nut from.)


• Hose clamp pliers- These pliers are used to “pinch” the ends of hose clamps to either remove them or place them back on after replacing hoses. They will save a lot of grief over a regular pair of pliers.


• Meters- A compliment of meters such as an ohm meter, a volt meter and an amp meter will make many repairs easier to complete should the manual directions need you to know those ratings while working on the appliance. Good to have around the house.