Random Home Maintenance Notes

Appliance Maintenance

Clean the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher regularly to prevent clogs and ensure efficient operation.
If the control panel is unresponsive, try resetting the appliance by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in. If that doesn't work, check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn't tripped. Also, if the appliance doesn't have a plug (hardwired), turn off the power at the breaker for a few minutes before turning it back on. Finally, if the issue persists, it might be a blown thermal coupler or a faulty control board. Both of these issues can be handled by someone with moderate DIY skills.

If the machine is rocking or vibrating excessively during the spin cycle, it may be unbalanced. To fix this, stop the cycle, open the lid, and redistribute the clothes evenly around the agitator. Close the lid and restart the spin cycle. But if the problem persists, check that the washer is level and adjust the feet as necessary.
As I dsicovered recently, if the machine is bouncing excessively, and the above steps don't help, check the shock absorbers. These can wear out over time, especially if the washer is frequently overloaded. Replacing the shock absorbers is a more involved repair, but still something a moderately handy person can do.

If the hot water in your house smells like rotten eggs, while it may be due to bacteria, it's often caused by a chemical reaction between the anode rod in the water heater and the sulfate in the water. Replacing the anode rod can normally fix this issue. This is an involved fix, so you should probably hire a plumber unless you're very comfortable working with plumbing.