To check electrical systems for shorts and faulty connections, repairers follow wiring diagrams and use testing devices, such as ammeters, voltmeters, and wattmeters. After identifying problems, they replace or repair defective belts, motors, heating elements, switches, gears, or other items and tighten, align, clean, and lubricate parts as necessary. Repairers use common handtools, including screwdrivers, wrenches, files, and pliers, as well as soldering guns and special tools designed for particular appliances. When servicing appliances with electronic parts, repairers may replace circuit boards or other electronic components. Repairers servicing gas appliances may check the heating unit and replace pipes, thermocouples, thermostats, valves, and indicator spindles.
Repairers also answer emergency calls for gas leaks.
To install gas appliances, they may have to install pipes in customers' homes to connect the appliances to the gas line. They measure, lay out, cut, and thread pipe and connect it to a feeder line and to the appliance. They may have to saw holes in walls or floors and may hang steel supports from beams or joists to hold gas pipes in place. Once the gas line is in place, they turn on the gas and check for leaks. Repairers also answer customers' questions about the care and use of appliances.