Top 5 Common Home Repairs and How to Fix Them

Leaky Faucet

A leaky faucet is one of the most common household annoyances. Over time, worn-out washers, damaged seals, or loose components can cause a faucet to drip incessantly, leading to wasted water and higher utility bills.

How to Fix It:
Turn off the water supply to the faucet by locating the shutoff valves under the sink. Disassemble the faucet: Use a wrench to remove the handle and faucet stem. The specific steps depend on the type of faucet (compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk). Inspect the parts: Look for worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals. If any parts are damaged, replace them with new ones that match the make and model of your faucet. Reassemble the faucet: Once the new parts are in place, reassemble the faucet in reverse order. Turn on the water to check if the leak has stopped. If it persists, you may need professional help.

Clogged Drain

Clogged drains are a frequent issue in kitchens and bathrooms. They often result from the buildup of grease, hair, soap scum, or food particles. If left untreated, clogs can lead to slow drainage or even flooding.

How to Fix It:
Plunger method: Use a plunger to create pressure and dislodge the clog. Make sure the plunger’s rubber cup is tightly sealed over the drain. Drain snake: For tougher clogs, insert a drain snake (a flexible metal coil) into the drain and rotate it to break up or remove the clog. Baking soda and vinegar: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then flush with hot water. Call a plumber: If the clog is deep within the plumbing or recurring, it’s best to call a professional to clear it safely.

Running Toilet

A toilet that keeps running can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. This issue is often caused by a faulty flapper valve, a worn-out fill valve, or an improperly adjusted float.

How to Fix It:
Turn off the water supply to the toilet by locating the shutoff valve behind or near the base. Remove the tank lid: Inspect the inside of the tank for any visible problems. The most common cause of a running toilet is a worn-out or misaligned flapper valve. Check the flapper: If it’s worn out or doesn’t seal properly, replace it with a new one. Check the fill valve and float: Adjust the float so that it’s not set too high (which causes the water to overflow into the tank), and ensure the fill valve is functioning properly. Turn on the water: Check the toilet to ensure it’s no longer running.

Cracked or Damaged Walls

Over time, walls can crack or become damaged due to settling, humidity changes, or accidental impacts. Small cracks are easy to repair, while larger holes may require more effort.

How to Fix It:
For small cracks: Use a utility knife to clean the edges of the crack and remove any loose debris. Apply a patching compound (spackling paste) using a putty knife, smoothing it over the crack. Let it dry, then sand the area smooth. If necessary, apply a second coat and sand again. Paint over the patched area to match the rest of the wall. For larger holes: Use a drywall patch or piece of drywall cut to fit the hole. Secure the patch to the wall studs with drywall screws or adhesive. Apply joint compound around the edges of the patch, smooth it out, and let it dry. Sand the patched area and paint over it.

Faulty Light Switch or Outlet

A malfunctioning light switch or electrical outlet is a common issue in many homes. The cause is usually a loose connection, a tripped breaker, or a faulty switch or outlet.

How to Fix It:
Turn off the power at the circuit breaker panel to prevent electrical shock. Check the switch or outlet: Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off. If the switch or outlet isn’t working, you may need to replace the device. Replace the switch or outlet: Remove the cover plate and unscrew the switch or outlet from the electrical box. Disconnect the wires from the old switch/outlet, taking note of their positions. Connect the wires to the new device, ensuring the connections are tight and secure. Screw the new device into the electrical box, replace the cover plate, and turn the power back on.

If you’re uncomfortable working with electricity, it’s best to call a licensed electrician for assistance.

By tackling common home repairs like leaky faucets, clogged drains, running toilets, cracked walls, and faulty electrical switches, homeowners can save money and improve the functionality of their homes. However, if a repair seems beyond your skill set, don’t hesitate to contact a professional handyman or specialist to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. Regular maintenance can prevent many of these issues from arising in the first place, keeping your home in top condition.