Tips

How to Fix an AC Compressor

Fixing AC compressor problems increases the unit's efficiency and extends its life. An AC compressor contains a motor with start and run windings. The motor turns a piston that compresses the system's refrigerant. The compressor sits inside the air-conditioning system's condensing unit. Because of the high-pressure load the piston creates during startup, the motor uses its start windings to reach full speed. The amperage load an air conditioning compressor draws throughout its start phase burns loose-fitting wire terminals.

How to Troubleshoot the Kenmore 790 Combination Microwave Oven

The Sears Kenmore 790 Combination Microwave Oven works in combination with a wall oven, and provides features such as safety door latches, turntable, interior light and variable cooking times and speeds. If your Kenmore 790 Combination Microwave Oven appears not to be operating properly, some troubleshooting steps may help you to diagnose the problem, and may resolve it without the need to call in a repair man. Make certain the microwave and wall oven are plugged in to a working and grounded power outlet, if the problem is that the microwave does not turn on or function.

How to Fix the Tension Spring on a Miter Saw

A miter saw is an indispensable tool for a number of home improvement projects. It is perfect for making precise cuts at a number of different angles for molding, trim and other woodworking. When the tension spring (or torsion spring) of a miter saw is damaged, the cutting head may not stay in its upright position, causing a safety hazard. Fixing the tension spring is simply a matter of finding the proper replacement part and replacing it, and you'll be back up and running in no time.

How to Wire a Small House

You can tackle a home wiring project yourself. Doing so will save you money, but before beginning any large-scale home wiring project, you may want to consult with your electric utility and a licensed electrician to be sure you have all the information you need to do it right. Install the appropriate electrical boxes wherever your cable is cut. They protect exposed wire. Map out the exact locations in the house that will need electrical outlets and wall switches.

How to Build a PVC Telescoping Bird Feeder Pole

A telescoping bird feeder pole allows you to keep the bird feeder away from predators such as cats, while still making it easy to reach for cleaning and filling. Store-bought models are effective, but expensive. The solution: make your own. A trip to your local hardware store yields all you need to make a telescoping bird feeder pole. This may seem daunting, but construction requires little more than a couple of pieces of PVC piping and some ring pins.

How to Remove Gel Deodorant Stains

Gel deodorants often are less likely to leave stains on clothing because of their transparent color, as opposed to the white color of most roll-on and stick deodorants. Even gel deodorants, however, can leave underarm stains over time if they contain the antiperspirant ingredient of aluminum salts. Adding vinegar to your wash can help to remove stains from gel deodorants. These salts can react with perspiration, which can cause discolored areas to appear in your clothing over a period of extended use.

How to Transition From One Color Tile to Another

If you are installing tile in a room that joins with an existing tile floor of a different color, use a tile transition. A tile transition is a strip of tiles that is put where two different color tile floors meet. The transitions are often small tiles in colors that complement both tile choices. Attractive tile transitions are important to give your home a uniform look and soften the change from one color to another.

How to Remove Permanent Marker From Ceramic Sinks

Ceramic sinks are usually (but not always) glazed to make them less porous, and therefore more stain resistant. Despite this stain resistance, permanent marker ink won’t simply wipe off after it has dried on a ceramic surface--whether the surface is glazed or not. You’ll need to use chemicals beyond soap and water--chemicals that will break the bond between the permanent ink and the ceramic’s surface. You have several chemical products to choose from, including a few you may already have around the house.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chainsaw Carving

From doll making to needlework, American folk art has a rich and eclectic history, and one of the most creative forms today is chainsaw sculpture. We have all admired the roadside chainsaw sculpture stands and have maybe even been lucky enough to see a demonstration. Your lawn will never be the same. Things You Will Need + Log or section of wood beam Cutting stump Work gloves Safety glasses Ear plugs Chainsaw Bark spud or pry bar Drill Four screws Lumber crayon marker Wood carving tools Grinder with sanding disc Wood stain (optional) Paintbrush Wood sealer If you are interested in learning to carve, make sure you are fully versed in the technical and safety practices of using a chainsaw before embarking on a project.

How to Fix a Formica Table

Formica is a high-pressure laminate material frequently used for countertops, sinks and tabletops. The material is inexpensive, durable and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Formica tables are commonly used as craft or sewing tables because of the smooth, consistent surface. While it is durable, it is not damage-proof. If you find nicks, cuts or cracks on your Formica table, repair them using basic materials found at your local home improvement store.