Top 10 Unknown DIY Fixes to Save Money Around the House: A Standard Guide

Owning a home can quickly become an expensive endeavor if homeowners aren’t careful. Common issues, from leaky sinks to noisy appliances, often lead to frequent calls to professional contractors. However, many of these problems can be easily fixed with some basic tools and a little bit of effort. In this guide, we will explore ten little-known DIY fixes that can save you significant money around your house.

1. Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet can waste around 200 gallons of water per day, translating to higher water bills. It’s frustrating, but you don’t have to call a plumber to fix it.

How to Do It

1. Remove the Tank Lid: Carefully take off the lid of your toilet tank and set it aside.

   
   

2. Check the Flapper: Inspect the flapper at the bottom of the tank. If it’s worn or dirty, it may not seal properly. Cleaning or replacing it can quickly solve the problem.

   
   

3. Adjust the Chain: If the chain connected to the flapper is too tight or too loose, adjust its length so that the flapper seals properly when it closes.

   
   

Taking these steps can reduce your water usage and help you save on your monthly bill.

Identifying components inside a toilet tank.

2. Sealing Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can lead to a 30% increase in heating and cooling costs. Sealing them is an easy and cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

How to Do It

1. Identify Drafts: On a windy day, feel for cold air around the edges of your windows. A candle can also help reveal drafts.

   
   

2. Apply Weatherstripping: Use weatherstripping tape, available at most home improvement stores, and stick it along the edges of the window frame.

   
   

3. Use Caulk for Cracks: Fill any significant cracks or gaps with caulk to create an airtight seal.

   
   

This simple fix can help retain heat inside during winter and keep cool air in during summer.

Applying weatherstripping to prevent drafts.

3. Fixing Squeaky Floors

Squeaky floors can be bothersome, especially during quiet moments. A few straightforward steps can quiet them down effectively.

How to Do It

1. Locate the Squeak: Walk around to find exactly where the squeak is coming from.

   
   

2. Apply Talcum Powder: For squeaks caused by floorboards rubbing against each other, sprinkle talcum powder between the boards to reduce friction.

   
   

3. Screw Down Loose Boards: If you find any loose floorboards, secure them using wood screws to eliminate the wobble.

   
   

These actions can bring back the tranquility in your home.

4. Patch Up Small Holes in Walls

Small holes from nails or accidental bumps can make your walls look unkempt, but repairing them is a straightforward task.

How to Do It

1. Clean the Area: Clear away any loose debris surrounding the hole.

   
   

2. Use Spackling Paste: With a putty knife, apply spackling paste over the hole, smoothing it out until it’s flush with the wall surface.

   
   

3. Sand and Paint: Once dry, sand the area lightly and paint over it to blend with the rest of the wall.

   
   

This quick repair can refresh the look of your space without needing a professional.

5. Preventing Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can lead to serious plumbing costs. Fortunately, regular maintenance can prevent this.

How to Do It

1. Use a Drain Strainer: Install strainers in kitchen and bathroom sinks to catch hair and food particles. This can reduce clogs by up to 80%.

   
   

2. Regularly Flush With Hot Water: Pouring hot water down the drain once a month can help dissolve buildup.

   
   

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar: A combo of 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar can also clear minor clogs and maintain fresher drains.

   
   

Consistent preventive measures can prolong the life of your plumbing.

6. Fixing Wobbly Furniture

Wobbly furniture can be more than just annoying; it can also pose safety risks. Thankfully, stabilizing it is easy.

How to Do It

1. Identify the Uneven Leg: Check which leg isn’t making contact with the ground.

   
   

2. Use Furniture Pads: Add adhesive furniture pads under the short leg to stabilize it.

   
   

3. Check for Loose Screws: Tightening any loose screws or bolts can further secure the piece.

   
   

Having sturdy furniture makes your living area safer and more comfortable.

7. Cleaning Refrigerator Coils

Dirty refrigerator coils can cause your fridge to consume up to 30% more energy, leading to higher electricity bills.

How to Do It

1. Unplug the Refrigerator: Always ensure your fridge is disconnected from power before cleaning.

   
   

2. Locate the Coils: They can usually be found on the back or underneath the appliance.

   
   

3. Use a Vacuum: Clean the coils with a vacuum or a coil brush to get rid of dust and debris.

   
   

This maintenance can improve efficiency and extend the lifespan of your appliance.

8. Reducing the Noise of Your Washing Machine

If your washing machine is loud, it may simply require leveling to reduce vibration and noise.

How to Do It

1. Check the Level: Use a level tool on top of the machine to see if it’s even.

   
   

2. Adjust the Feet: Most washing machines have adjustable feet. Ensure they are properly secured to the ground.

   
   

3. Add Rubber Pads: Placing rubber pads under the feet can help absorb vibrations and minimize noise.

   
   

These simple adjustments can make laundry day a lot quieter.

9. Cleaning Gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to serious damage to your home’s foundation. Annual cleaning can save thousands in repairs.

How to Do It

1. Get a Ladder: Ensure you have a stable ladder and some gloves for protection.

   
   

2. Remove Debris: Clear leaves, twigs, and dirt from the gutters, which can obstruct water flow.

   
   

3. Flush with Water: Use a hose to rinse the gutters thoroughly and ensure water flows freely.

   
   

Regular gutter maintenance can prevent problems and enhance your home’s lifespan.

10. Replacing Air Filters

Dirty air filters can make your HVAC system work harder, leading to increased energy costs.

How to Do It

1. Locate the Filter: Find where your air filter is housed in your HVAC system.

   
   

2. Check the Condition: Remove the filter and see if it’s clogged with dirt. If it looks dirty or hasn't been replaced in three months, it's time for a change.

   
   

3. Replace or Clean: If the filter is disposable, install a new one. If it’s reusable, clean it per the manufacturer's instructions.

   
   

Regular filter maintenance can improve your system's efficiency and air quality.

Final Thoughts on DIY Fixes

By tackling these common household issues with simple DIY fixes, you can save money and prevent costly repairs. From sealing drafts to cleaning appliances, each little effort contributes to significant savings over time. Being proactive about home maintenance not only improves your living space but also provides peace of mind.

Remember, regular check-ups and maintenance are key. Take those small steps often to keep your home in top condition. Happy fixing!