Q. Our washing machine has started making a lot of noise. At first, I thought it was the size of the loads, so I cut them down to a smaller size. But that didn't help. What can I do to fix this washing machine? I can't afford to replace it. Can you help?
A. Try resetting the level before you do anything else. The front legs are adjustable, so set your level on the top of the machine and turn the front "feet" to raise or lower it to get it level.
Check it in all directions, and keep adjusting until it's perfect. Then run it with no clothes in it and see if it's OK. If the tub still moves, you should probably call a repair person and have it checked out inside and out. Most of the time, the leveling makes a huge difference.
Q. I want to refinish my dining-room buffet table one of these days, but not today. I do, however, want to see if you have a solution to remove the white ring created by a serving dish placed on it during Thanksgiving. Can you help?
A. See if by smearing a blob of petroleum jelly over the white spot and giving it time to soak in, you can wipe it away. This will work only on some surfaces, so make sure to check the treatment in an out-of-the-way area, like a drawer, first.
Q. We are going to renovate our bathroom, and we have beige sinks and a beige bathtub. We are having trouble finding a matching beige toilet. What would you recommend, other than replacing everything?
A. If you can find the name of the original manufacturer (located on the sink or tub), see if you can contact them for a source of replacement.
If they can't help you, maybe they can at least give you the paint code. If that doesn't work, contact a kitchen and bath supplier, and put them to work on it.
You can even check with building surplus houses and see if they have one. Sometimes you can get lucky on eBay or Craigslist.
Q. Why do the tube lights in my garage give me so much trouble in the winter?
A. They are made to operate in warmer temperatures, so if the weather is cold and the garage isn't insulated enough, it could cause them to flutter or not function properly. It might be possible to shop for a newer bulb made to work in colder climates, or a new fixture might be in order.
Has your water pressure dropped off over the years, your hot water especially? Many times, this is due to a buildup of mineral deposits in your plumbing system.
There's a little trick you can play on your pipes with a dime to clear out some of these deposits. We've written the steps down so that you can try this yourself.
Just send your request for the free instructions, along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope, to: "Better Water Pressure," Super Handyman, c/o Sun-Times, 350 N. Orleans, Chicago IL 60654.
