Click-click, how to fix the clicks?

[hazelchaz]

I've got a toaster that won't toast. You push the handle down, but it doesn't click into place and start working.

I also have a rice cooker than won't cook. There's a lever you push to switch it from WARM to COOK mode, it's supposed to click into the COOK mode and start heating up. It doesn't work either.

My engineering brain says these failure modes have to be related. Does anyone know anything about fixing small appliances?

Comments

[voidampersand.livejournal.com]

Not an expert. Advice given is free and worth about that much. Just be glad I'm not there to show you. "Dude, you broke them!" "Hey, they were broken already, what did you expect?"

It's probably mechanical. That's the "click into place" part. You need to take the case off and work the mechanism to see where and why it isn't catching. The most likely cause is that a part is worn or bent, or that a spring came off.

There probably is a solenoid to release the mechanism when it's done. In the toaster it probably will be actuated by a timer. In the simplest rice cookers, it's actuated by a weight sensor. Your problem could be caused by a mechanical failure where the solenoid is stuck or an electrical failure where it is always on. If it's a mechanical failure, try freeing it up and apply a silicone lube. An always-on electrical failure is unlikely, but if it happens, don't plug it in again, because safety.

[reziac.livejournal.com]

Yes. You throw it away and get a new one. :( If it's a newer unit it's likely not worth fixing, but if it's a sturdy older one (pre-made-in-China) it may well be worth the effort.

I have one of those rice-cookers Costco sells. Like it so well I bought a spare! And the trick to good rice is ... remember MJB rice in the green box, and how *good* it was compared to other rice? Their secret was -- jasmine rice. (Super Lucky Elephant brand seems to be best, if you can get it. Sam's Club usually carries it.)

Oh, finally moved for good, I hope! Send me an email and I'll give you the address. rez@doomgold.com