Common Household Issues How to Fix Them

Once you’re equipped with the right tools, you can start tackling some of the most common household issues. From leaking taps to squeaky hinges, here are some tried-and-tested DIY solutions:

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Leaky Taps

A dripping tap isn’t just annoying, it’s a drain on your wallet too. A leaky faucet could potentially waste hundreds of litres of water a year, which gradually adds up financially. The usual culprit is a worn-out washer or O-ring. Here’s how to fix it: Turn Off the Water: Locate the water valve under the sink and turn it off.

Disassemble the Faucet: Use a wrench to remove the tap handle and expose the washer or O-ring.

Replace the Washer/O-Ring: Simply replace it with a matching new part from a hardware store.

Reassemble and Test: Turn the water back on and check that the drip is gone. If the issue persists, consider replacing the entire faucet.

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Wall Cracks and Holes

Minor cracks in walls are normal as buildings settle, but they can be unsightly and worsen over time. Here’s a quick way to patch them up:

Clean the Area: Remove any loose debris with a putty knife.

Apply Filler: Use a pre-mixed wall filler to fill the crack or hole.

Sand the Surface: Once the filler is dry, sand it down until it’s smooth.

Repaint: Apply a fresh coat of paint to blend the repair into the surrounding wall.

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Clogged Drains

Slow drains are a common problem in bathrooms and kitchens, but before calling in the plumber, try these steps:

Use a Plunger: Place it over the drain and give it a few pumps to loosen debris.

Apply a Natural Drain Cleaner: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by boiling water.

Use a Drain Snake: If the blockage persists, a drain snake can help dislodge stubborn clogs deep in the pipe.

If these methods don’t work, the clog might be further down the pipes, in which case you may need to consult a professional.

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Faulty Light Switches

Flickering lights or unresponsive switches can often be fixed with a simple swap, but be careful when managing electrics. Here’s how:

Turn Off the Power: Ensure the power is off at the circuit breaker.

Remove the Faceplate: Unscrew the switch cover and remove it.

Inspect and Replace: Check for any signs of burning or damage. If needed, replace the switch by attaching the new one to the corresponding wires.

Reattach and Test: Restore power and test the new switch to ensure it works