Tips on making repairs to save some money

In nearly all situations, it's cheaper to repair than to replace. That's a principle that we've allowed to be forgotten in a time when electronics and appliances are constantly improving.

When the TV goes out, we just assume it's better to buy a new one because the newer models are so much better than our old piece of junk. Or when the icemaker quits making ice, it must be time to get a new refrigerator. Well, not so fast. There may be an easier and cheaper way.

Remove and thaw

When our 11-year-old icemaker stopped working, I wondered if it was worth replacing since the fridge is getting old and a repairman would charge at least $250. It was still going to be $100 if we replaced it ourselves. Prior to doing anything, we took the icemaker out of the freezer to let it thaw out before ordering and replacing the motor. We decided to reinstall it, and it's been working fine ever since. — Jodi, Texas

OxiClean liquid trumps powder

I tried the tip about cleaning grout with a paste made of OxiClean powder. It cleans great, but the mess of making the paste, applying it only to the grout and then cleaning the floor of the gritty mess was a pain. I experimented with other cleaners, but the OxiClean paste still worked the best at cleaning grout. While shopping one day, I found a liquid version of OxiClean. I sprayed it on the grout, let it sit, scrubbed with a toothbrush and wiped it up with a damp rag. — Julie, Arkansas

Vinegar hair rinse

For 60 years, I've been using vinegar as a hair rinse after shampooing. I pour some vinegar in a glass, fill with water and then apply it to my hair after rinsing out the shampoo. I rub the vinegar into my hair and then rinse again with plain water. My hair is soft, and the vinegar gets rid of any soap residue that may remain. — Anne, Minnesota

Reconstituted soft scrub

My Soft Scrub cleaner had pretty much dried up in our Arizona heat, but I couldn't toss it out. I boiled a 1⁄4 cup of water in the microwave and then slowly poured the water into the Soft Scrub bottle. I shook it up thoroughly. My Soft Scrub came alive again. — Marlene, Arizona

Do you have a question for Mary? Email her at mary@everydaycheapskate.com, or write to Everyday Cheapskate, P.O. Box 2135, Paramount, CA 90723.