Learning how to fix things around the house or in your car can save you time, money, and the hassle of waiting for a repairman. Some basic skills can go a long way in keeping your belongings in good condition and avoiding the need for professional help. In this article, we will discuss some of the things you need to know how to fix.
Changing a Car Tire
Flat tires are an unfortunate part of driving. Knowing how to change a tire can get you back on the road quickly and easily. To change a tire, you will need a spare tire, a jack, and a lug wrench. First, loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire with the lug wrench. Then, jack up the car and remove the lug nuts and the flat tire. Finally, replace the tire with the spare tire and tighten the lug nuts. It is important to remember to have your flat tire repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Unclogging a Drain
Clogged drains can be frustrating and messy. To unclog a drain, you will need a plunger, a drain snake, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. First, use a plunger to create suction and force the clog through the drain. If that does not work, use a drain snake to break up the clog and pull it out. Alternatively, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes before flushing with hot water.
Fixing a Leaky Faucet
A leaky faucet can waste a lot of water and lead to higher bills. To fix a leaky faucet, you will need a wrench, a replacement washer, and possibly a replacement cartridge. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, remove the handle and the stem to access the washer and cartridge. Replace the damaged parts with the new ones and reassemble the faucet.
Changing a Lightbulb
Changing a lightbulb is a simple task that can save you money on professional help. To change a lightbulb, turn off the power to the light fixture and wait for the bulb to cool down. Then, unscrew the old bulb and replace it with a new one. Make sure the bulb is the correct wattage for the fixture.
Patching a Hole in Drywall
Accidents happen, and sometimes they result in a hole in the drywall. To patch a hole in drywall, you will need a drywall patch, joint compound, a putty knife, and sandpaper. First, cut the drywall patch to fit the size of the hole. Then, apply joint compound to the edges of the hole and place the patch over it. Use the putty knife to smooth the compound and let it dry. Sand the area until it is smooth and paint over it to match the surrounding wall.
Replacing a Toilet Flapper
A toilet that constantly runs can waste a lot of water and lead to higher bills. To replace a toilet flapper, you will need a replacement flapper and a pair of pliers. First, turn off the water supply to the toilet. Then, remove the old flapper and replace it with the new one. Adjust the chain length so the flapper can close properly and turn the water supply back on.
Fixing a Stuck Garbage Disposal
A stuck garbage disposal can be a smelly and frustrating problem. To fix a stuck garbage disposal, you will need a hex wrench and a flashlight. First, turn off the power to the disposal. Then, use the hex wrench to turn the flywheel back and forth to loosen the clog. Use the flashlight to check for any visible debris and remove it with tongs or pliers.
Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet can waste water and lead to higher bills. To fix a running toilet, you will need a replacement flapper or fill valve, a pair of pliers, and a screwdriver. First, turn off the water supply to the toilet. Then, remove the tank lid and check if the flapper is sealing properly or if the fill valve is malfunctioning. Replace the damaged part and turn the water supply back on.
Fixing a Squeaky Door
A squeaky door can be annoying and loud. To fix a squeaky door, you will need lubricant, a screwdriver, and possibly replacement screws. First, remove the hinge pins from the door and lay them on a flat surface. Apply lubricant to the pins and hinges and reinsert them into the hinges. If the screws are loose, replace them with longer ones.
Repairing a Screen Door or Window
A torn or damaged screen door or window can let insects and pests inside. To repair a screen door or window, you will need a replacement screen, a spline roller, and a utility knife. First, remove the old screen and spline from the frame. Cut the replacement screen to fit the size of the frame and use the spline roller to secure the new screen in place.
Fixing a Leaky Roof
A leaky roof can cause water damage and lead to mold and mildew. To fix a leaky roof, you will need a ladder, roofing cement, and a trowel. First, locate the source of the leak and mark it. Then, use the ladder to access the roof and apply roofing cement to the damaged area with a trowel. Let the cement dry and check for any additional leaks.
Fixing a Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet can be messy and inconvenient. To fix a clogged toilet, you will need a plunger, a toilet auger, or a mixture of dish soap and hot water. First, use the plunger to create suction and force the clog through the drain. If that does not work, use a toilet auger to break up the clog and remove it. Alternatively, pour a mixture of dish soap and hot water down the toilet and let it sit for a few minutes before flushing with hot water.
Fixing a Refrigerator that is not Cooling
A refrigerator that is not cooling can spoil food and lead to waste. To fix a refrigerator that is not cooling, you will need a thermometer, a vacuum, and possibly replacement parts. First, check the temperature with a thermometer and make sure it is set to the proper level. Then, vacuum the condenser coils and check for any visible damage or wear on the parts. Replace any damaged parts and check if the refrigerator is cooling properly.
Fixing a Broken Window Pane
A broken window pane can be a safety hazard and let in cold air. To fix a broken window pane, you will need a glass cutter, a putty knife, glazing compound, and a paintbrush. First, remove the old glazing and glass from the frame with a putty knife. Cut the replacement glass to fit the size of the frame with a glass cutter and apply glazing compound around the frame. Smooth out the compound with a paintbrush and let it dry before painting.
In conclusion, knowing how to fix common household issues can save you time and money. By having the right tools and knowledge, you can tackle a variety of tasks such as fixing a running toilet, repairing a screen door, or fixing a slow drain. While some tasks may require the help of a professional, many can be completed with a little effort and patience. With these skills, you can feel more confident and self-sufficient in your home repairs.
