Comments on: Somewhat More Intimidating Than the Usual Do-It-Yourself Project

By: Sreekala

Sreekala — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 05:56:48 +0000

During my 3-year-long stay in the US, I was amazed to see how people seemed to throw away broken appliances and even cars instead of repairing them – then I learned first hand that repairing is much more costlier or repairing services are non-existent. When we came back to India I made better buying choices and made sure that each appliance that I buy have a service backup in place. I have totally avoided buying appliances like toasters and microwaves. Now we are even cutting down on electronic gadgets as well.

By: Willow

Willow — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 05:03:06 +0000

I’m impressed! Good job! My husband is great at researching repairs and DIY options. He has repaired so many things in our house :)

By: Lauren

Lauren — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 14:57:52 +0000

Great job! I’ve vowed to not dispose of anything until the last possibility of repair has been exhausted. And, as a corollary, not to purchase anything in the future that can’t be repaired.

I’ve heard that in Europe most items (toasters, refrigerators) are repaired rather than replaced — there is some kind of requirement that manufacturers have to provide this service. I don’t know if it is true or not. Here in the U.S., home of $10 toasters and $60 microwaves courtesy of China/Wal-Mart alliance, it doesn’t make economic sense to repair. Throw-away is built in despite the high cost to the environment.

It is encouraging to have such a blog as this where like-minded people can gather and enjoy companionship.

By: Pam McCormick

Pam McCormick — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:18:20 +0000

I am just bowled over by you and your husband! So persistant and such a great example of team work and tenacity!!!! I have to say I would have caved in at such a monumental task but now after reading your journey…..I will try more.Thank you!

By: Melissa

Melissa — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:34:59 +0000

That is quite an accomplishment! I fixed a minor problem with my furnace after doing online research and I felt very proud of myself but it was nowhere near taking things apart like that.

By: Wendi

Wendi — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 23:46:13 +0000

Wow! What a story. Good thing you were able to get it fixed in time for spring!

By: Kelly

Kelly — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:04:35 +0000

Good job! Way to go. :)

By: M.L.

M.L. — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:46:17 +0000

Wow, what a job! Good for you.

By: Jo

Jo — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:54:44 +0000

Congratulations! When’s the celebration party?

Seriously, we live in a terrible throw away society. I wonder how much we waste, as a country or even as a world, by making things that can’t be repaired. It used to be that most everyone could repair just about everything they owned or find someone who could. Now business just says, sorry, this will have to be replaced.That’s not a very economical way to live in a world of diminishing resources.

Growing up poor in Maine has helped me to be very careful with my money and even if I could buy new today, I always look to see if I can fix it first. But things are made to be very complicated. Sometimes “progress” isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be. Maybe these difficult economic times we are going through will teach others, by necessity, to fix and repair instead of going into debt.

I come here every day, Shirley, for inspiration and ideas that enrich my life in so many ways. God bless you and yours.