DIY Life

A few months back, the control knob on my clothes dryer broke. Since it involved only a minor DIY repair job, I thought this a fab opportunity to try shopping for spare parts online. Result? A 10 out of 10 experience. I used PartSelect and was really happy. Other likely-looking choices include PartStore and big box store sites like SearsPartsDirect, to name just two of the many sites out there.

I was thrilled with how easy it was to locate such a tiny and obscure plastic doo-dad via the Web. Thrilled because ordering it online was possible in the first place. Also thrilled because such sites make simple appliance repairs easier for the beginner DIY'er. Interested? After the break, I'll share what you should know before cracking out that credit card:

The Speed Factor. Buying spare parts online saves you lots of valuable time. In the olden days, you would have to flip through the phone book to find likely parts suppliers. Then you would have to make some phone calls. Next, you would waste at least an hour driving to and from the supplier.

Ooh, and don't forget the dreaded experience of waiting in line for a salesperson. Now, I don't mind long shopping expeditions for fun stuff. And I don't mind long shopping expeditions for major purchases, like a whole new appliance. But I hate waiting in line to purchase a spare part that retails at exactly $2.99! Oh, and would you ladies like some condescending-salesman-attitude to go with your order?

Finally, factor in more wasted time if they didn't have the part in stock. You're looking at a fun return trip two weeks from now. Yay, you!

The Brain Factor
Overall, ordering appliance parts online is just dandy. Except for one thing: you must use your brain and know exactly which part you need. Be patient and scrutinize your online options before making your final purchase. Many of the parts look identical at a glance, so carefully compare the specs listed on the site with your appliance info. Here is the key information you will need:

1. Make/brand name (e.g. Kenmore, GE, Dyson)
2. Model number
3. Part number. Locate this online or in your user's manual. If you have lost your user's manual, do a Google search--they are often available on the manufacturers' websites as PDF files.

The best sites provide multiple, high-resolution images of their products. Lots of photos mean you're less likely to order the wrong part and then endure the hassle of a return and exchange.

The Price Factor
Yes, buying online allows you to easily compare prices. This is very cool. However, it's not just about low prices. To avoid getting ripped off, look for a site you can trust. Regardless of what I'm shopping for online, I look for signs of trustworthiness and professionalism.

For example, in this case I went with PartSelect because they display the BizRate Circle of Excellence icon and they are members of the Better Business Bureau Online Reliability Program.