Question on these fancy computerized machines
08-04-2011, 03:11 PM
#71
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Virginia
Posts: 449
I use a surger on all my machines but still unplug them when I leave the room...!!!! I have had to replace the mother board 2 times (not from lightening) and it cost me $ 500.00 each time......I will never buy another computerized machine...I am going back to NO computers in sewing machines....Don't get me wrong...I love my machines but can not afford to pay that kind of money anymore.....I have 4 computerized ones and when they go.....they won't be replaced or fixed ....I have already bought 2 used older machines getting ready......Here they charge $180.00 JUST to look at your machine even if they don't fix it ( if it is computerized)....Thats at an aurtherized dealer...
Originally Posted by 02Lcdam
I once had a power surge knock out a board on my Viking computerized machine and it was very expensive to replace. It really pays to use a surge protector and unplug during electrical storms. Not worth the grief and $ if something happens!
08-04-2011, 04:07 PM
#72
Junior Member
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Eastern Iowa
Posts: 100
Originally Posted by sparkys_mom
I have just acquired the Janome Horizon - computer boards and all. My question - aside from using a surge protector - do you use any other precautions for your machines? Would you continue to sew through a thunderstorm? Just wondering.
LoriAnn
08-04-2011, 04:31 PM
#73
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Portland, OR via Hawaii
Posts: 1,342
I never do any sewing during electrical storms.
When I'm not sewing, all my machines are unplugged as are all the irons.
Also, I never leave my toaster plugged in, and if it weren't for the timer on the coffee pot, it would also get unplugged.
I do insist that it's unplugged when we leave the house for several days....had one short out and start grinding then overheat. Fortunately I was in the kitchen at the time and was able to unplug it. It probably would have started to burn otherwise...smelled the classis "overheated wire" odor.
Oh, I also get off the computer which I turn off during those stormy periods.
When I'm not sewing, all my machines are unplugged as are all the irons.
Also, I never leave my toaster plugged in, and if it weren't for the timer on the coffee pot, it would also get unplugged.
I do insist that it's unplugged when we leave the house for several days....had one short out and start grinding then overheat. Fortunately I was in the kitchen at the time and was able to unplug it. It probably would have started to burn otherwise...smelled the classis "overheated wire" odor.
Oh, I also get off the computer which I turn off during those stormy periods.
08-04-2011, 05:29 PM
#76
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: A million dollar view!
Posts: 8,830
Originally Posted by klc
Congrats on your new Horizon. I love mine! As for precautions I take (other than the surge protector), I unplug my machine during lightening storms. Do not use magnets near your machine. I was also told not to use canned air to clean out my machine (it is hard on the computer). As for any other things to do, just keep her clean of dust bunnies, use caution and gently clean as the auto thread cutter and other parts can get messed up. Go to classes and learn all you can about using your machine. Enjoy! They really are a wonderful machine.
08-04-2011, 06:06 PM
#77
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Maine
Posts: 1,914
I also own the Horizon, and keep it unplugged when not in use. Never use any electronics during a storm is my motto. You will just love quilting with that new machine....the room and the accufeed system is amazing! Enjoy
08-04-2011, 10:09 PM
#78
Super Member
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Madison Heights, MI
Posts: 1,069
If you are really worried about electricity problems, I would but a battery backup. They have built in surger protectors and they protect from brown outs. Damage can occur from both. That is why we have all our computers and TV on battery back ups. They are only around $100 and Best Buy usually has them on sale every now and then. If you are going to use a surge protect, don't but from dollar store, spend a few extra buck for a good one for the high price items and the dollar store brand for cheaper stuff.
Just my 2 cents.
Just my 2 cents.
08-05-2011, 02:56 AM
#80
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: The Beautiful Willamette Valley In Oregon
Posts: 689
Originally Posted by Greenheron
I don't use any electronic equipment or anything connected to plumbing during a storm. Surge protectors are not 100% reliable. Unplug your machine. :thumbup:
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