Before you start any repair project, make sure you have the right tools for the job. Here are some of the most common tools you’ll need for DIY Kitchenaid refrigerator repairs:
- Multimeter: This is a device that measures voltage, current, and resistance in electrical circuits. You can use it to diagnose and troubleshoot various electrical problems in your refrigerator, such as faulty switches, sensors, thermostats, or compressors. A multimeter can cost anywhere from $30 to $40.
- Cordless electric drill: This is a handy tool that makes disassembling and reassembling appliance parts easy. You can use it to remove or install screws, bolts, or nuts in your refrigerator. A cordless electric drill can cost anywhere from $20 to $80.
- Rubber mallet: This is a tool that delivers force without damaging surfaces. You can use it to adjust or seat appliance components that are stuck or misaligned. A rubber mallet can cost anywhere from $4 to $10.
- Putty knife: This is a tool that has a flat blade and a handle. You can use it to scrape residue, apply filler, or remove appliance components that are held by clips or adhesive. A putty knife can cost anywhere from $4 to $10.
- Wire cutters: These are tools that have sharp blades and handles. You can use them to cut wires or small pins when repairing or replacing electrical components in your refrigerator. Wire cutters can cost anywhere from $20 to $50.
- Wrench set: These are tools that have open-ended or closed-ended heads and handles. You can use them to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts in your refrigerator. A wrench set can have various sizes and shapes, depending on the type of nuts and bolts you’re working with. A wrench set can cost anywhere from $40 to $100.
- Nut driver set: These are tools that have hexagonal sockets and handles. You can use them to fit over hexagonal nuts or screw heads, offering better grip and turning leverage than standard screwdrivers. A nut driver set can have various sizes and shapes, depending on the type of nuts and screws you’re working with. A nut driver set can cost anywhere from $12 to $30.
- Handheld steam cleaner: This is a device that uses hot steam to clean grime and sticky residue from appliance components. You can use it to sanitize and deodorize your refrigerator after a repair. A handheld steam cleaner can cost anywhere from $35 to $50.
- Shop vacuum: This is a device that uses suction to clean debris, dust, or water from appliance interiors or surrounding areas during a repair. You can use it to prevent clogging or damage to your refrigerator parts. A shop vacuum can cost anywhere from $60 to $100.
- Appliance rollers: These are devices that have wheels and handles. You can use them to safely move heavy appliances like refrigerators or ovens. You can also use a slip-resistant mat or glide underneath appliances to move them without scratching the floor. Appliance rollers can cost anywhere from $20 to $40.
Where to Buy Them
You can buy these tools from various sources, such as hardware stores, home improvement stores, online retailers, or appliance parts suppliers. Some of the most popular places where you can find these tools are:
- Amazon.com: This is an online marketplace that sells a wide range of products, including tools for appliance repairs. You can browse through different categories, brands, prices, ratings, and reviews to find the best deals and quality.
- Home Depot: This is a home improvement store that sells various products for home improvement projects, including tools for appliance repairs. You can visit their physical stores or shop online through their website or app.
- Lowe’s: This is another home improvement store that sells various products for home improvement projects, including tools for appliance repairs. You can also visit their physical stores or shop online through their website or app.
- Sears PartsDirect: This is an online retailer that sells parts and accessories for various appliances, including Kitchenaid refrigerators. You can also find tools for appliance repairs on their website, along with manuals, videos, and guides to help you with your DIY projects.
How to Use Them Properly
Once you have the right tools for your DIY Kitchenaid refrigerator repairs, you need to know how to use them properly. Here are some tips and precautions to follow when using these tools:
- Always unplug the refrigerator before you start any repair. This will prevent electric shocks, fires, or damage to the appliance or yourself.
- Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing when working with electrical components, sharp edges, or hot surfaces. This will prevent injuries, burns, or cuts.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations when using any tool. This will ensure optimal performance and safety of the tool and the appliance.
- Always use the right tool for the right job. Don’t use a tool that is too big, too small, or not designed for the task. This will prevent damage to the tool, the appliance, or yourself.
- Always keep your tools clean and well-maintained. This will extend their lifespan and prevent rust, corrosion, or malfunction.
- Always store your tools in a safe and dry place. This will prevent theft, loss, or damage to your tools.
Conclusion
With these tools in your toolkit, you’ll be ready to tackle most common Kitchenaid refrigerator repairs on your own. You’ll save money and time by avoiding service calls and fees. You’ll also gain confidence and satisfaction by fixing your own appliances. However, if you encounter a problem that is beyond your skill level or requires specialized tools or parts, don’t hesitate to call a professional repair service. They’ll have the expertise and experience to handle any refrigerator issue safely and efficiently.