Easy Fixes to Three Common Household Problems

If you own your home, you know that upkeep is important and, many times, costly. Large problems, such as furnace or major electrical, may require the services of a professional. However, there are many common household problems that can easily be fixed on your own with a few tools and very little cash. Here is a list of the top three.

Clogged Bathtub Drain: This is one of the easiest fixes when it comes to keeping your home well-maintained (and, in this case, clean). If your tub has a pop-up stopper, flip up the drain lever. This is located on the plate cover of the overflow. Turn the stopper counterclockwise to loosen it, then pull out the stopper and free the area of hair and grime. If the tub drains, reinstall the stopper into the drain.

If your tub has a strainer, insert needle nose pliers into two of the strainer holes and turn the strainer counterclockwise to remove it. With the strainer removed, get rid of any accumulation of hair. If your tub drains, reinsert the strainer into the drain hole.

If hair removal from the drain doesn't fix the problem, you'll have to go a little deeper. First, remove the overflow plate cover using a flathead screwdriver. To create a greater suction, stuff a rag into the overflow hole. Rub petroleum jelly around the bottom rim of a plunger. With the plunger directly over the drain hole, plunge rapidly multiple times. The water should then drain from the tub.

Clogged Gutters: Your gutters are important, since they prevent water damage to your home by directing rain water away from your house. Leaves and mud can clog your gutters, allowing water to settle around your foundation or seep into your walls. This can cause rot and other serious damage, so it's important to clean your gutters at least twice a year--once in the spring and again in the fall. You'll be climbing up and down a ladder, so wear shoes with good traction and practice ladder safety. Starting at the area of guttering farthest from the downspout, place a ladder against the exterior wall. Climb the ladder with a garden hose and trowel in hand, climbing high enough so you can easily see into the gutter. If you have a leaf guard on your gutter, remove it. Spray small amounts of debris toward the downspout until the gutter is clear. If necessary, use the trowel to remove larger amounts of debris from the gutter. Work in sections until the gutter is clear, then return to the starting point and spray the gutter with the garden hose to remove any leftovers.

Hole in Window Screen: A window screen patch is an easy fix, but if you prefer uniformity or don't like the thought of the patch being noticeable, you may prefer to replace the entire screen. If this isn't an issue, measure the hole and purchase a patch at your local hardware store. With the patch placed over the hole on the interior side, feed the wires into the screen. Work until all four sides of the patch are installed.

These are just a few of the simple fixes to common household problems. Proper maintenance on your home will keep it looking great and functioning well for many years to come. Performing the upkeep yourself will save money, keeping cash in your pocket where it belongs!