THE NEWELL POST: Operator error

22 Dec.,2023

 

Michelle Newell

Versatile cabinet combines function, style

This week's item is not a picture frame, at least not entirely, anyway. It's a recessed medicine cabinet that allows you to insert your own art, whether that be a favorite print or family photo. The cabinets come in three sizes and six finishes. It's available unfinished, so you can paint it any color you'd like.

Made by iinnovators, it's a little pricier than other cabinets with mirrored fronts, but I couldn't resist sharing. Its versatility lends itself to any room in your home. Use it in the hallway for keys and mail, in the bedroom for jewelry and personal items, in the kitchen for spices and more. Visit ConcealedCabinet.com to learn more.

Operation: User error

I had problems with two machines last week and, as it turned out, both issues were the result of user error (shocker).

I went to the garage to check on a load of towels that had been tumbling for more than an hour, but were still damp. I reset the timer, turned around and noticed a large wet spot underneath my lawn mower. I couldn't tell if it was leaking gasoline or oil, but when I started it the following day, large puffs of smoke came pouring out the side.

I'd purchased extended warranties on both the dryer and the mower so I made repair appointments for each.

With the help of my mom and the dreaded minivan, I dropped the lawn mower off at a repair shop across town. I felt very adult and responsible when I presented my receipt and warranty information to the man behind the counter. Of course, this ended up being unnecessary since the repairs weren't covered under the warranty (are they ever?). It turned out I'd put too much oil in the mower and saturated the air filter (pause for laughter). They repaired it to the tune of $40, and I got a lesson on checking the oil levels in a lawn mower (Hint: It needs less oil than you think).

I also learned some valuable lessons from the Sears representative who came out to check my dryer. I knew that the suddenly long drying times would probably be solved by cleaning out the dryer vent, but since I'd never done this before and the warranty I'd purchased covered maintenance, I thought I'd leave it to a pro. So, I spent some time on Saturday watching the nice man vacuum out my dryer, definitely something you could do yourself with a shopvac. He vacuumed the filter and the inside of the dryer, but then pulled the dryer out and disconnected the vent (i.e. the metal tube thing in the back) and showed me the dried lint inside. He explained that wet lint can get stuck inside the vent, then dry and harden (think stale cotton candy). This can block air flow from the dryer, causing it to overheat and start a fire. Not good.

According to the United States Fire Administration, 12,700 clothes dryer fires occur annually in residential buildings, resulting in 15 deaths and 300 injuries. It also stated that "failure to clean" is the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in residential buildings. (Read more about this at usfa.dhs.gov and here.)

The rep also showed me where the dryer vents to the outside, which was completely blocked by lint. He showed me how to clean it out and recommended I check it monthly to make sure it wasn't blocked. He also suggested that I relocate some of the surrounding plants to ensure the flaps covering the vent had ample room to open.

As frustrating as it was to be without a dryer or mower for a week (I was afraid to use either), at least I learned some valuable lessons. Plus, it was a good reminder of the importance of learning about the appliances in your home and, more specifically, that they don't run themselves. Sometimes, they need a little help from you. That can be a tough, but valuable, lesson for those breaking out on their own, whether you own or rent.

What problems have you experienced around your home that were the result of user error? What did you learn from the experience? Please share your stories!

Michelle Newell is an @home staff writer, first-time homeowner and practicing DIYer. She welcomes your feedback, suggestions and inspiration. Visit Michelle'sblog for more adventures from this first-time homeowner. Find us onFacebook.

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