While you may occasionally face troubles with appliances, electricals, heating or plumbing, it doesn’t mean that you need to call the professionals right away and put a dent in your pocket.
Here are 7 easy repairs you can do around the house yourself:
Not Getting Enough Water Pressure
The number one cause of low water pressure are aerators getting clogged with the deteriorating minerals from the insides of pipes over time. To repair, simply unscrew the aerator and clean or replace it with an aerator having the same threading.
Leakages
It is common for valves to get loose or for their packing material to weaken, causing leakages. If this is the case simply locate the nut around the valve and tighten it, or if required, shut the main water supply and repack the valve with fresh packing material.
Water Heater Not Working
Before you reach for the phone to call the plumber, check at the bottom of the water heater by removing it’s cover if the pilot flame is lit. If this small flame has gone out, follow the instructions provided with the tank to relight the pilot.
Refrigerator Not Cold Enough
Sometimes by accident, the controls are changed, and for some refrigerators, they need to be modified with the seasons. Check the controls first, although in some cases the cooling coils may be covered with dust. In which case, shut the refrigerator and simply vacuum them.
Gas Burners Not Lighting
Usually, for gas burners to malfunction, either the gas isn’t reaching the stove or the igniter isn’t working. Check to make sure that the gas supply and the power are plugged in before calling for professional help.
Electric Stoves Not Working
Electric stoves work with a terminal block connecting with the receptacle under the stovetop. Sometimes during cleaning, this can be dislodged. Simply reinstall the terminal block and if needed spread them a bit to create a tighter connection.
Electrical Outlets Not Working
For higher voltage outlets, GFCI circuit breakers are common, to prevent damage to the appliance and can trip at times. A simple check and reset in the circuit box is all that’s needed to bring back power to the outlet.