Repair guides
Thirty plain-English guides to the problems homeowners and renters search for most. Each one starts with the easiest fix and tells you exactly when to stop and call a pro.
- PlumbingToilets, faucets, drains and water pressure.5 guides
- ElectricalBreakers, outlets, switches and lights.5 guides
- AppliancesDishwashers, dryers, fridges, washers and ovens.5 guides
- Walls, doors & windowsDrywall, doors, caulk and sticky windows.5 guides
- Heating & coolingAC, filters, thermostats and hot water.5 guides
- Outdoor & exteriorGutters, decks, sprinklers and gates.5 guides
Most popular fixes
Not sure where to start? These are the guides people use most.
- How to fix a running toiletA toilet that won't stop running is almost always one of three cheap parts inside the tank. Here's how to tell which one and fix it yourself.Easy15–45 minutes
- How to reset a tripped circuit breakerA tripped breaker is your home's wiring protecting itself. Resetting one takes a minute. Knowing why it tripped, and when to stop, matters more.Easy5–15 minutes
- Dryer not heating: safe checks to try before you callA dryer that spins but won't heat usually has a setting, power or airflow problem. These checks are safe, quick and may also lower your fire risk.Easy20–60 minutes
- AC not cooling: what to check before you call for serviceMany no-cool calls turn out to be a thermostat setting, a tripped breaker or a clogged filter. Here's how to check the easy things safely, and when to stop.Easy15–30 minutes (plus thawing time for a frozen coil)
- How to unclog a drain without chemicalsA plunger, a cheap drain snake and a bucket clear most household clogs. Here's the order to try them, and why boiling water and caustic cleaners aren't the answer.Easy15–60 minutes
- GFCI outlet not working? How to reset it and find the right oneA dead bathroom or garage outlet is often fine. It's usually being shut off by a GFCI somewhere else on the same circuit, and finding that one is the whole trick.Easy5–20 minutes
- Dishwasher not draining: what to check and how to fix itMost drain problems come down to a dirty filter, a kinked hose, or a clog where the dishwasher empties into the sink. Here is how to check each one safely.Easy20–45 minutes
- How to patch a hole in drywallMost wall holes are a one-afternoon fix. Match the method to the size of the hole, take your time with thin coats, and the patch will disappear under paint.Easy30 minutes of work, plus drying time
How our guides work
- Safety first. Power off and tested, water off, ladders steady. We never walk you through gas line work or anything inside the electrical panel.
- Easiest fix first. Causes are listed from most likely and simplest to least, so you don't buy parts you don't need.
- A clear stopping point. Every guide has a "When to call a pro" section, with a free match request if you'd rather hand it off.
- Checked against the source. We verify steps against manufacturer instructions and safety agencies and list our sources at the end of each guide.