September 2008
Do it yourself and save
There’s info available to help you tackle all kinds of jobs
Do you really need to pay $95 an hour every time you have a clogged drain or $150 to have someone hook up your TV? Does installing software require a $129 visit from a computer technician? You might want to learn how to handle those and other tasks yourself.
There are more resources than ever, many of them online, to help you do anything, whether it's grooming your dog or changing your car's air filter. Not only can you save money, but you'll get the satisfaction of doing a job with your own two hands. And even if you still decide to call in an expert, knowing how a job is done can make you a smarter consumer.
Where to look
- Take a course. Community centers, colleges, libraries, and other local organizations offer adult-education courses free or at low cost.
- Check out a manual. Sometimes you can learn how to fix a product by reading the instructions that came with it. For example, your vehicle owner's
manual probably tells you how to check the oil and other fluids and replace fuses. Manufacturers often prepare repair and
maintenance manuals for specific models. And there are many aftermarket publications, some of which you can find at the library.
- Try a Web search. We typed "replacing a faucet" into Google and found many useful resources, including the Web site of the home-improvement
retailer Lowe's (www.lowes.com). Also try searching with and without the words "do it yourself."
- Use forums. Participants can be very knowledgeable and helpful. Often you'll find pros eager to give advice. And if someone gives you
a bum steer, someone else will probably come along to correct the error, especially on popular groups. Find forums on do-it-yourself
and specialty Web sites devoted to the subjects you're researching, such as automobiles, computers, or home improvement.
A major resource is Usenet, with thousands of newsgroups devoted to many subjects. On alt.home.repair, users discuss repair and maintenance projects. On rec.bicycles.tech, visitors talk about bike repair. Access newsgroups by going to www.groups.google.com. You can also participate in Usenet newsgroups using the newsreader program in applications such as Microsoft Outlook Express.
Can you do it?
When using online sources, you may need to register your e-mail address, especially if you intend to participate in user forums. It's generally best to use a disposable e-mail address like a free one from Google (www.gmail.google.com) because you'll probably get a lot of solicitations. And many online do-it-yourself sites are supported by advertising, so be prepared for the marketing pitches.
Gather as many do-it-yourself resources as you can find for your project, and compare steps, photos, illustrations, and other details. Review the procedures to determine whether the project matches your experience, time, and patience. Finally, make sure you have the right tools, and check out safety precautions, especially if working around electricity or machinery.
If you reach a roadblock in your project, you can ask for advice on a forum. But don't be shy about turning to a pro if you find yourself in over your head.
This article was also published in Consumer Reports Money Adviser. Subscribe now to get more expert financial advice you can trust.
