7 tools & kits every DIYer should own

Home » 7 tools & kits every DIYer should own

1.     10-in-1 Screwdriver
This handy screwdriver is perfect for appliance and outdoor power equipment repair – and any home improvement project. With this high-quality Klein Tools™ 10-in-1 screwdriver, you won’t have to dig around in a toolbox in the middle of a project or lug around multiple screwdrivers. It includes a small and large Philips, small and large straight standard and ¼-inch and 5/16-inch nut driver (hex) heads, a T10 and T15 Torx, and a number 1 and 2 square bit. Many appliance manufacturers are using Torx and hex head fasteners in lieu of Phillips head screws.

This is the screwdriver neighbors, friends and family will borrow and “forget” to return to you. It makes a great gift for fellow DIYers and new homeowners.

00674330 Klein 10-in-1 screwdriver
2.   Digital Multimeter

This digital multimeter is a top favorite among our experts because of its reliability. This helps DIYers figure out what’s wrong and fix their problem like a pro. Use this device to effectively and efficiently determine continuity in parts of appliances. Failed electrical components such as fuses, switches, sensors, heating elements and motors can be tested using this meter. Part testing is an important step in the troubleshooting process. It also allows you to check the incoming voltage to an appliance. It includes a temperature probe as well. A 9V battery is included.

Digital multi-meter

3.    Dryer  Vent Brush

Dryer maintenance is all about proper air flow. Be sure to clean your dryer’s lint trap after each load. If you notice the dryer is taking too long to dry, then there’s a good chance the vent needs to be cleaned. Any vent longer than 10 feet should be regularly cleaned. This top-selling brush makes the job easy. Feed the cable through the vent to the outside. Then, outside of your home, pull the brush end through. You’ll find additional dryer safety tips here.

Note: Most dryers also have a thermal fuse, so if the vent becomes clogged, the dryer will stop heating or running altogether and you’ll need to replace the fuse. Before replacing the fuse, be sure do a thorough vent cleaning.

20 ft cleaning brush - 00559868

4.    Spanner Wrench

A spanner wrench is our go-to tool for easily removing tub locknuts on Whirlpool, Kenmore, GE and Maytag washing machines. If you’re a DIYer and own a washer that has a spanner or lock nut, having this on hand will determine whether or not you will be able to complete a repair.

Enter the washer’s model number here to find the wrench that’s designed for your model.

spanner wrench

5.    Condenser Coil Cleaning Brush

This long-handle cleaning brush makes cleaning refrigerator condenser coils easy. It also doubles as a great tool for removing hard-to-reach lint from dryer lint traps.

Condenser coils are your refrigerator’s coils located at the back or beneath the unit. These coils will be hot to the touch when the refrigerator or freezer is running. Unfortunately, they’re dust and dirt magnets which hinders their ability to dissipate heat. Overtime, dust and hair build up on the coils causes the refrigerator to not cool properly and the refrigeration system will function less efficiently and result in increased energy consumption.

These coils should be cleaned every 12 months; if you have pets, you may need to do this more frequently. We’ve found that dogs enjoy resting in front of the fridge. A long-handled bristle brush and your vacuum cleaner will work best to remove dirt and fur from the coils.


6.    Ignition Tester

If your lawnmower, chainsaw, or other small engine does not start, having this tool will save you substantial amount of troubleshooting time. For an engine to start, you need a spark and to figure out why an engine does not start, you need to determine if the problem is electrical, mechanical or a fuel problem. This tool will enable you to run a few simple, quick tests to rule out issues with the spark plug, ignition coil and other electrical components so that you can move forward with additional troubleshooting efforts.

Ignition Tester


Tune-kit image7.    Small Engine Tune-up Kit

As a DIYer, you already know the importance of proper maintenance of outdoor power equipment. A spring engine tune-up will improve engine performance, reduce emissions and extend the life of equipment. Save yourself the hassle of finding tune-up essentials like motor oil, air filters, spark plug and fuel stabilizer individually. A tune-up kit designed for your engine includes everything you need.

Enter your engine model number at https://www.repairclinic.com/Shop-For-Parts/a21c114/Lawn-Mower-Tune-Up-Maintenance-Kit-Parts to find the kit designed specifically for your model. All tune-up kits are on sale through May 31, 2013.

Check out seven ways to make your lawn mower run like new.

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Something broken? We’ll help.

RepairClinic has replacement parts for washing machines including hoses, pumps, belts, touch-up paint, water inlet valves, pulleys, seals, leveling legs, knobs, gaskets and many others. Our troubleshooting and repair help guide offers help information on the likely cause of its problems as well as the recommended part(s) for your machine. Have your model number ready and head here.

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About RepairClinic.com

Since its founding in 1999, RepairClinic.com has helped three million do-it-yourselfers save 225 million dollars in repair costs by successfully repairing appliances and outdoor power equipment on their own.

RepairClinic’s free online repair help system empowers do-it-yourselfers to fix common problems associated with major home appliances, outdoor power equipment, HVAC equipment, water heaters, floor care, and more. DIYers can enter a model number to choose from a list of common symptoms for that particular model, troubleshoot and watch expertly-produced videos to learn the most likely causes and conditions and purchase the correct, recommended part.

RepairClinic.com stocks more than one million parts and accessories for 160 brands of furnaces, air conditioners, air handlers, heat pumps, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, lawn mowers, snowblowers, leaf blowers, edgers and many other products.

Since 1999, the company has served more than three million customers including homeowners, first-time and beginner DIYers, advanced DIYers, appliance repair professionals, small engine repair shops and landscaping and lawn care business owners. RepairClinic orders are backed by a 365 Days. Period.™ return policy that enables customers to return any part. Of the more than one million parts available on the website, 95 percent of parts ordered are in stock and guaranteed to ship the same business day. RepairClinic ships within the United States and Canada.

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