10 Easy Home Repairs Anyone Can Do

Why Do It Yourself?

Doing basic home repairs yourself not only saves money but also gives you a sense of accomplishment. Here are 10 extremely easy repairs you can start today without any professional training.

1. Fixing a Leaky Faucet

A leaky faucet is often just a worn-out washer or O-ring. Turn off the water supply, unscrew the handle, and replace the rubber washer. It’s that simple!

2. Unclogging a Drain

Before using harsh chemicals, try a simple mix of baking soda and vinegar. Pour it down the drain, let it sit for 30 minutes, and flush with hot water.

3. Patching a Hole in the Wall

For small holes, all you need is some spackle and a putty knife. Apply the spackle, let it dry, sand it smooth, and paint over it.

4. Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet is usually caused by a faulty flapper. Open the tank, find the rubber flapper, and replace it. Parts are less than $10 at any hardware store.

5. Replacing a Light Switch

Safety first: Always turn off the breaker. Unscrew the coverplate, detach the wires from the old switch, and attach them to the new one in the same positions.

6. Replacing a Door Handle

Most interior door handles are held by two screws—one on each side. Remove the screws, pull the handles apart, and slide the latch out of the door edge. Install the new handle in reverse order. Exterior handles may have a hidden screw under a cap.

7. Fixing a Sticking Door

A door that sticks is usually rubbing against the frame. Identify where it catches (top, side, or bottom). For the top or side, plane or sand the door edge slightly. For the bottom, trim with a saw. Re-hang and test. A little goes a long way.

8. Repairing a Loose Cabinet Hinge

Cabinet hinges often loosen over time. Tighten the screws that attach the hinge to the cabinet and the door. If the screw holes are stripped, fill them with wood filler or toothpicks and glue, let dry, then re-screw. For European hinges, adjust the screws to shift the door position.

9. Unclogging a Garbage Disposal

First, turn off the power at the breaker. Never put your hand in the disposal. Use an allen key in the hole on the bottom to manually turn the blades and free jams. Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain, then flush with hot water. For persistent clogs, disconnect the disposal and clear the pipe.

10. Replacing a Thermostat Battery

Programmable thermostats often run on AA or AAA batteries. Pull the thermostat face off the wall (it may clip or slide). Replace the batteries and snap it back. If the display is blank, dead batteries are the first thing to check. Some thermostats are hardwired—no battery needed.