Don't try to repair electric furnace heating elements or other major electrical components. Refer to the Heating Element Fix-It Guide and other fix-it guides for troubleshooting information and call a professional HVAC (heat-ventilation-air conditioning) technician for service. From Electric Furnace Repair.

As basic maintenance, wipe down your exercise equipment with a soft dry rag after each use to keep perspiration from corroding metal parts. Once every few months, clean surfaces with mild household cleaner and water. From Exercise Equipment Repair.

If you're replacing an older thermostat with a new programmable unit, get one that allows at least two daily cycles. Select one that allows you to vary the settings for the weekend or daily requirements. From Comfort Controls Repair.

Before working on a dishwasher, always turn off power to the machine. Built-in models are plugged in under the sink. If you can't easily access the plug, turn off the appropriate breaker in the electrical service panel . Also remember to locate the water supply shutoff and turn the water off before beginning repairs. From Dishwasher Repair.

Lamps and smaller appliances use flat-cord plugs. Cords on electrical devices typically are manufactured with and sealed to the cord. Quick-connect replacement plugs are easy to install but won't stand up to repeated plugging and unplugging because they are not sealed to the cord. Medium and larger appliances and devices typically use round-cord plugs, often with a third prong for grounding the circuit. Some heating appliances use detachable cords. If you replace a detachable cord, make sure the new cord is of the same power rating and prong configuration. From Electrical Cord Repair.