Yes I'll usually try to fix anything first. I've learned a lot over the years just using all the info on the internet. I've replaced all the light fittings in our house, did my own insulation, fixed the car (replacing rotors and pads), fixed our 20 year old toilets, fixed the kid's clothes and shoes, replaced or fixed taps, made my own tables and benches (functional but ugly). Computers I've been building and fixing since a teen.

I've managed to extend the life of a lot of things, but there are times I have to weigh the cost if it's worth it, for example if I need to get new specific tools. Or sometimes I just use it as an excuse to upgrade.

Electronics is probably where I haven't done much fixing, but it is an area I'd like to learn more on.

[–] absGeekNZ 5 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Electronics can be difficult, desoldering is tricky and prone to damaging the boards (assuming discrete components that can be accessed); if a micro controller (chip) goes bad....you are SOL without very specialized equipment. Surface mount components are doable with a very steady hand and a magnifying glass and a sharp point on your iron.

But then the next problem is finding replacement parts.

[–] eagleeyedtiger 4 points 1 year ago

I’d probably start with very basic things just to learn. Being able to fix basic appliances would be a nice skill to have. I haven’t had anything really fail in that way, so nothing to practice on