How to Fix 17 Common Household Problems Yourself

As a homeowner, it’s inevitable that you’ll encounter various household problems from time to time. While some issues may require professional help, there are several common problems that you can easily fix yourself. Not only will this save you money, but it will also give you a sense of accomplishment. In this blog post, we’ll explore 17 common household problems and provide you with simple solutions to fix them.

1. Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet can be annoying and wasteful. To fix it, start by turning off the water supply under the sink. Then, disassemble the faucet and replace the worn-out washer or cartridge. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on.

2. Clogged Drain

A clogged drain can be a headache, but you can easily fix it using a plunger or a drain snake. If the clog is stubborn, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water to break it up.

3. Running Toilet

A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water. To fix it, remove the toilet tank lid and adjust the float arm or chain to ensure that the flapper valve closes properly. If necessary, replace the flapper valve.

4. Squeaky Door Hinges

Squeaky door hinges can be annoying, but you can silence them by applying a lubricant like WD-40 or petroleum jelly. Simply apply a small amount to the hinge pins and move the door back and forth to distribute the lubricant.

5. Stuck Window

If you’re struggling to open or close a window, it’s likely due to dirt or paint buildup. Use a putty knife or a screwdriver to gently remove any debris. You can also apply a silicone-based lubricant to help the window slide more smoothly.

6. Loose Cabinet Handles

If your cabinet handles are loose, tighten them by using a screwdriver to tighten the screws. If the screws don’t hold well, you can try using a toothpick or wooden matchstick coated in wood glue to fill the hole before reinserting the screw.

7. Flickering Lights

Flickering lights can be caused by loose bulbs or a faulty connection. Start by turning off the power and then tighten the bulb. If the problem persists, check the wiring connections and tighten any loose connections.

8. Stained Grout

To remove stains from grout, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained area, scrub with a toothbrush, and rinse with water. For stubborn stains, you can use hydrogen peroxide or a commercial grout cleaner.

9. Jammed Garbage Disposal

If your garbage disposal is jammed, turn off the power and use a hex key or an Allen wrench to manually rotate the blades. Remove any debris causing the jam and then turn the power back on to test the disposal.

10. Wobbly Chair or Table

A wobbly chair or table can be stabilized by tightening loose screws or adding adhesive furniture pads to the legs. If necessary, you can also use a shim to level the furniture.

11. Stuck Drawer

If a drawer is stuck, try applying a lubricant like paraffin wax or soap to the drawer slides. Gently wiggle the drawer back and forth to distribute the lubricant and loosen the drawer.

12. Peeling Wallpaper

To fix peeling wallpaper, start by applying wallpaper adhesive to the back of the peeling section. Smooth out any bubbles and press the wallpaper firmly against the wall. Use a damp sponge to remove any excess adhesive.

13. Dripping Showerhead

A dripping showerhead can be fixed by replacing the worn-out rubber gasket or the entire showerhead. Use a wrench to remove the old showerhead and apply the plumber’s tape to the threads before installing the new one.

14. Stuck Sliding Door

If a sliding door is stuck, check for any debris or obstructions in the track. Use a vacuum or a brush to remove the dirt and then lubricate the track with silicone spray or a dry lubricant.

15. Scratched Wood Furniture

To fix minor scratches on wood furniture, use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and olive oil. Apply the mixture to the scratch and gently rub it in with a soft cloth. Wipe off any excess and buff the area to restore the shine.

16. Moldy Shower Caulk

To remove mould from the shower caulk, create a paste using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the mouldy caulk, let it sit for a few hours, and then scrub with a toothbrush. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.

17. Dull Kitchen Cabinets

If your kitchen cabinets have lost their shine, you can revive them by cleaning them with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. For an extra shine, apply a coat of furniture polish.

By tackling these common household problems yourself, you can save both time and money. However, if you’re unsure about any repair or if the problem persists, it’s always best to consult a professional. Remember, a little DIY spirit can go a long way in keeping your home in tip-top shape!

Conclusion

Home maintenance can be challenging and time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With some simple tips and tricks, you can fix many common household problems yourself, without calling a professional. Whether it’s a clogged drain, a squeaky door, a leaky faucet, or a smelly dishwasher, there is a DIY solution that you can try with minimal tools and materials.

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