You will find that when you are a homeowner, there is always some kind of work to be done on the property. Home maintenance is a constant job, and often this is work which you can do yourself (although sometimes it is best to call out a professional). There are many common problems around the house that can be solved with basic tools, and the internet is one of the best and most accessible resources when you need to find easy-to-follow instructions. Below, you will find five common problems that homeowners typically run into and how you can quickly solve them so that you are well prepared.
Power Outage
A power outage is one of the most common household problems and something that you are likely to encounter at some point out of the blue. A power outage can occasionally actually be an enjoyable experience, but they can also cause a lot of disruption, so it is essential that you know how to react.
First, you need to make sure that everyone in the house is safe and get them in the same room. You should then look outside to see if it is a neighborhood problem or just your house. If it is just your house, then you will need to go to the circuit breaker and switch off each breaker. You then reset your main breaker before switching them all back on one by one.
Leaking/Burst Pipe
A burst pipe can cause significant damage, as can a leaking pipe, so it is understandable that people panic in this situation. Fortunately, you should be able to minimize the damage if you know how to react quickly and get the pipe fixed.
The first step is to locate the burst or leaking pipe. You then need to go to the stopcock, which is usually in the kitchen or bathroom and switch off the water. Doing so will stop any more water from escaping so the emergency side is over, but you will still need to get the pipe fixed by a plumber. Search for the best local plumbers online to find someone who will be able to help.
Running Toilets/Leaky Faucets
There are few things more frustrating than a running toilet or a leaky faucet. They are also a serious household problem because they can lead to water damage and mold, not to mention the noise and cost.
A running toilet can often be fixed by replacing the floating mechanism, cleaning or replacing the stopper and valve seat, or replacing the flush valve. To fix a leaky faucet, turn off the water and try replacing the washer inside the valve seat (make sure that it is the right fit). If you still have issues after these fixes, then call out a plumber who will be able to fix the problem.
Roof Damage
The roof protects your entire home from the elements so any damage can be a major issue and one which will require immediate attention. It is essential to check the condition of the roof regularly and always before winter sets in as the harsh conditions can make damage much worse.
It is possible to complete minor repairs yourself, such as replacing a shingle, but roof damage is usually best left to the professionals. It is crucial to find a good roofer in your area and to have their contact details at the ready so that you can quickly get them out to help as soon as you notice a problem. You can also minimize damage by collecting water in buckets from any leaks and removing any electrical items in the area.
Gas Leak
A gas leak is scary and one of the most severe household problems that people encounter. Any small spark could lead to a fire or even an explosion, so you need to be careful in this situation and know what to do.
Obviously, you need to stop anyone from making a spark or using fire and turn off the gas at the meter. You then need to open all the windows in the home so that you can air the house out. Call out a gas fitter who will be able to fix the problem and follow their advice about when it is safe to return to normal.
Hopefully, the information in this post will help you to quickly and confidently solve any of the above issues in your home. Knowledge is key to success and should always help you to keep running a happy household.
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