amma

I guess that why I am concerned is that I was told that the computer parts for these new machines are only readily available for a number of years after they are manufactured. That what is apt to go out on them are these parts, and the replacement costs are very expensive. So I guess weighing the costs of replacing bulbs a couple times a year versus a big repair bill all at once, and doing without my machine while it is being repaired, is something that I will have to think about. It does raise another question, does turning the light off and on cause them to burn out quicker, or do they last just as long leaving them on a lot? Hey, What happened to the on/off switch for the lights, anyway, LOL

june6995

This discussion has been very interesting to me. Why? I bought a New Home Memory Craft 7000 (computerized) sewing machine in 1986. Yep, better than 20 years ago. I have had it cleaned. that is it! Replaced a few light bulbs but nothing else. It has been a workhorse as I did dressmaking and also made boutique items for a number of years. Then I began to make quilts in 2000. I turn off/on a lot. Right now I feel it is getting "warm" so I don't leave it on for long periods of time.

Last week I said to hubby "would you help me open the bottom and see how much lint is in the bottom?" We did, and after 20 years I felt there was llittle we could do to harm it. There was very little lint, so I took the can of WD40 and hit a few places. The race is getting a bit noisy and I suspect the parts are wearing. But my goodness, 21 years and still sewing up a storm.

I am not sure I could fall for those stories. AT least not the machine I have. There was no moisture inside and no rust. Excellent for that much use. And in use, I mean, sewing everyday. This machine was not one to sit with the cover on it. It was USED and used HARD! I would never trade it in. If I were to buy a new machine, I would continue to keep this one.

This is one person's experience and a GOOD REPORT on computerized machines. I love it!

June in Cincinnati

amma

This is good to know, thank you for replying. :D These are my first computerized machines, as my old 30+ yr old Kenmore was not. It was a thought I had along with a sewing machine repairmans information on computerized machines. I love to hear good feedback and history information from people who actually own them and use them. Thanks Again :D :D :D

k_jupiter

Please, please, plese...

Don't put WD40 on fine equipment like your sewing mchine. Please.

I am going to have nightmares tonight.

Please.. use sewing machine oil like your user manual tells you, take it in to get 'fixed' when it gets too noisy.

Don't put WD40 on good mechanical machines.

Please.

tim (computer engineer) in san jose

amma

Thanks for the heads up on the WD 40! What is you opinion on leaving on or turning off our computerized machines?


PS.... No nightmares, it was only once, ok???

mic-pa

I do not leave my machine on when I am not sewing etc., as a matter of fact I unplug it every time because of electrical storms. I do not want lightening striking my house and ruining my computerized sewing machines. And as someone else said, I have a janome 9000 for ten yrs and no amount of moisture or lint or anything else was in it when I took it apart. It too is a workhorse and I use it occasionally as I have now updated to a 10001. Marge in Pa. where we do get rain storms with lightening frequently in the summer

ButtercreamCakeArtist

Oh, yes. That is another reason I always turn off and unplug mine, too, mic-pa. We get a lot of lightning, and we're on top of a mountain...

Country Quilter

Well, I'm gonna give you ALL nightmares! LOL

I use 3 in 1 oil on mine! Have for years and no problems! Never thought of WD40 or probably would have tried that too! LOL

I have one machine that the bulb is really spendy....$15 I think to replace... the rest are older and cheaper bulbs.

I leave mine on because they won't sew unless they are on with the exception of my viking....that one runs with or without the bulb on and it gets really hot with the bulb on so usually leave it off as its next to a window anyway so lighting is good enuf.

k_jupiter

Depends. If the machine was well designed for heat dissipation, someone did their homework on average current draw, etc., it won't hurt to keep it on. But... that is a big if.

A couple of things..

1.) Lightning strikes. Goodbye sewing machine.
2.) Those cute computer screens? If the same images sit there too long, they will get burned in or out, depending on the technology.


If I owned one, I would only turn it on when I was using it. I would not keep turning it off and on all day. So minimize the number of times you cycle it, but don't go crazy and think you are saving it by keeping it on all the time.

Me, I gots an old Bernina 830 and an old Elna Super. The only computers in them are mechanical. I turn them off every night too.

tim in san jose

amma

I want to thank you all for your input on this. I appreciate the time you all took to help me with this, you all are great! :D :D :D Tim, I did not even think about the computer screen aspect, and lightening is not really a concern here where I live but I have lived in areas like some of you do where it is a real issue. I will also be checking into how much the bulbs for my machine cost, too. I had no idea that some were so expensive or had to be installed by a machine repair shop. :( This is one of the great things about this board, so many people who are caring, helpful, all of the knowledge, experience, commraderie, humor and friendliness that everyone shows. :D :D :D :D :D