How to Fix a Broken Home Audio Amplifier

Listening to music is an important part of modern life, and a home audio amplifier is a part that not many systems can live without. However, as with all other audio equipment, such as earphones and speakers, the amplifier can become damaged or even broken. Repairing the system is very complicated, and you may be tempted to call in an electrician, or perhaps just buy a new amplifier, but you should not despair, as there are many things which can be done by someone with a little experience of home improvement techniques, and by following a few simple rules you should be able to quickly repair your home audio amplifier, or at least get it working so that you can listen to music while waiting for an upgrade.

Step 1 - The Basics

Before you get into the complicated stuff, you should try examining the condition of your amplifier. A jack or cable which has become very dirty will often prevent connectors from passing the electricity between themselves, preventing your amplifier from working. So the first step is to clean your amplifier. Using a dry cloth or duster, clean the jacks. Wipe off any dust, and remove stains using a specialist electrical goods cleaner, or a can of compressed air. When you have cleaned off all the visible parts, you can then plug the amplifier back into the socket, and try using it again.

Step 2 - More Advanced

If your amplifier still does not work, you might need to consider removing the back and sides. Begin by removing the electrical cord from the wall, and also unplugging from any music players. Using your screwdriver, take out the screws on the back and sides of the amplifier until you can see inside to the electrical components. Move the parts of the chassis apart until you see the lower frame. Check the ends of the cord for fraying and damage. if you find either of these signs, then you will need to solder the wires back onto your connections. Taking the wire, place it against the connectors, and then add a drop of liquid solder. Apply the solder gun, and heat until the metal has fixed the wire onto the connection.

Step 3 - Check the Fuse

When you have repaired the connections, locate the fuses, and inspect these to see if they have burned out or become corroded. Take out any fuses which are no longer suitable, and then replace them with new fuses. Use the multimeter to check the electrical current of the cords and the fuse. Use the can of compressed air again to clean out the components. You may also use a light vacuum cleaner to hoover around the electric parts. If you cannot fix the problem with these steps, then you should take your amplifier to a repair shop, and seek electrical assistance.