50 Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do, Including Plumbing Services
Owning a home brings both joy and responsibility. While some tasks require professional help, many maintenance jobs can be handled by homeowners themselves. Here are 50 essential skills every homeowner should master to keep their home in top condition, including plumbing services and tasks that will save you time and money.
List of Contents
50 Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do, Including Plumbing Services
- Fix a Dripping Faucet
A leaky faucet wastes water and can be annoying. Turn off the water supply, disassemble the faucet, and replace the worn-out washer or O-ring. Reassemble, and your faucet should be drip-free.
- Clear a Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet is a common issue. Use a plunger first, and if that doesn’t work, resort to a toilet auger to clear the blockage. For more complex jobs, you should outsource to plumbing services.
- Unclog a Sink
Avoid chemical drain cleaners. Instead, detach and clean the P-trap beneath the sink. Place a bucket underneath to catch any water or debris.
- Replace a Faucet
Upgrading a faucet is straightforward. Ensure the new faucet matches the existing hole configuration. Shut off the water, remove the old faucet, and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
- Install a Shower Head
Remove the old shower head, apply thread seal tape to the shower arm, and screw on the new shower head. Don’t overtighten to avoid damaging the threads.
- Replace a Toilet
Replacing a toilet may seem daunting, but it’s manageable. Disconnect the water supply, remove the old toilet, and install the new one, ensuring a proper seal with a new wax ring. For more complex jobs, you should outsource to plumbing services.
- Repair a Running Toilet
Fixing a running toilet can often be resolved by adjusting the flapper or the fill valve. Ensure the chain isn’t too long and the float is at the correct level.
- Install a New Thermostat
Turn off the power, remove the old thermostat, and connect the new one according to the wiring diagram. A programmable thermostat can enhance energy efficiency.
- Turn Off the Water Main
Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve, usually found where the water line enters the house. Turn the valve clockwise to stop water flow during an emergency.
- Clear Out the Gutters
Clean gutters twice a year to prevent blockages and water damage. Use a ladder stabilizer and tools like a leaf blower or wet-dry vac with special attachments.
- Change Furnace Filters
Regularly replacing furnace filters (every two months) ensures efficient operation. Turn off the furnace, remove the old filter, and install the new one.
- Care for Hardwood Floors
Use hardwood-specific cleaning products. Avoid excessive water, which can damage the wood. Regularly vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment.
- Locate Wall Studs
Find studs by knocking on the wall or using a magnetic stud finder, essential for securely hanging heavy items like shelves and mirrors.
- Hang Shelves
Ensure shelves are attached to wall studs or use appropriate wall anchors. A level is crucial for proper alignment.
- Paint a Room
Proper preparation is key: clear the room, protect floors with drop cloths, and tape off baseboards. Apply primer and paint in well-ventilated conditions.
- Rewire a Lamp
Replace the cord and socket of an unplugged lamp to restore functionality. Follow the wiring diagram carefully for safe reassembly.
- Install a Wall Sconce
Cut holes for the electrical box and switch, run cable from the panel, and install the sconce per manufacturer instructions. Always turn off power before starting.
- Hang Wallpaper
Prime dark walls first. Align wallpaper pieces for seamless patterns and start in an inconspicuous spot. Smooth out bubbles with a wallpaper brush.
- Replace Outlets
Turn off power, remove the faceplate and old outlet, and connect the new outlet following the original wiring. Test the outlet after restoring power.
- Use a Pressure Washer
Clean exterior surfaces by spraying from the top down. Avoid direct, close-range spray to prevent damage to siding or paint.
- Install a Ceiling Fan
Use a fan-rated electrical box. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring all connections are secure. Turn off power before installation.
- Change Ceiling Fan Direction
Adjust the blade angle and flip the switch to change fan direction: counterclockwise for cooling in summer, clockwise for warmth in winter.
- Build Raised Garden Beds
Construct a frame from wood, dig a trench, and fill with a mix of soil, compost, and manure. Raised beds improve drainage and soil quality.
- Make Compost
Create nutrient-rich compost from food scraps and yard waste. Balance green materials (food scraps) with brown (paper, dry leaves) for optimal decomposition.
- Repair a Screen
Replace damaged window screens by removing the old screen and spline, fitting a new screen, and securing it with new spline.
- Install a Storm Door
Measure your doorway, buy a prehung storm door, and follow installation instructions for added insulation and light.
- Scour Grout Clean
Spray grout with water, scrub with a hard-bristled brush, and use a baking soda and vinegar paste for deep stains.
- Service the Lawn Mower
Annual lawn mower maintenance includes sharpening blades, changing oil, cleaning the deck, and checking the spark plug and air filter.
- Prune Trees and Shrubs
Use hand pruners, loppers, and a pruning saw to remove dead wood and shape plants. Best done in late fall or early spring.
- Seal the Driveway
Clean and repair cracks in the driveway, then apply sealant in small sections. Let it cure for 24 hours before use.
- Clean Stainless Steel
Avoid bleach and abrasives. Clean with soapy water and a soft cloth, wiping in the grain direction. For stuck-on food, use a nylon scrubber.
- Install a Dimmer Switch
Turn off power, replace the existing switch with a compatible dimmer, and follow the wiring instructions. Test with the power on.
- Mulch Garden Beds
Spread mulch 2 to 4 inches thick, avoiding the base of plants. Mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Hang a Picture
Measure and mark the wall, use a level, and choose appropriate hardware based on the picture’s weight.
- Clean the Grill
Soak grates in soapy water, scrub with a wire brush, and clean the grill body. Regular maintenance prolongs grill life and improves food flavor.
- Wash the Windows
Wipe windows with soapy water, spray with cleaner, and dry with a lint-free cloth using a Z-pattern. Clean frames and sills too.
- Turn Off the Gas Main
Locate the gas meter, turn the valve 90 degrees with an adjustable wrench to stop the gas flow. Call the gas company to restore service.
- Reset a Circuit Breaker
Find the tripped breaker in the panel, switch it off, then back on. This restores power to the affected circuit.
- Seal the Deck
Clean and repair the deck, apply a sealant or stain, and let it cure completely to protect the wood from weather damage.
- Inspect the Fireplace
Before winter, clean the firebox, check for chimney cracks, and ensure the damper works properly. Regular inspections ensure safe operation.
- Mow the Lawn
Edge and trim before mowing. Mow in varying patterns and avoid cutting more than a third of the grass height to promote healthy growth.
- Clean the Sump Pump
Turn off power, remove the pump, rinse off debris, and clean the pit. Ensure the pump is dry before reinstalling. For more complex jobs, you should outsource to plumbing services.
- Deep Clean a Carpet
Steam clean carpets to remove deep-seated dirt. Allow carpets to dry completely before use to prevent mold growth.
- Build and Attach Window Boxes
Construct window boxes to fit your window frame, drill drainage holes, and attach them securely with brackets.
- Install a New Light Fixture
Turn off power, remove the old fixture, connect the new fixture following the wiring diagram, and secure it in place.
- Hang Curtains
Measure window width, install curtain rods, and hang curtains for a polished look. Ensure brackets are securely anchored.
- Propagate Plants
Grow new plants from cuttings. Place cuttings in water or soil and keep them in a warm, light place until roots develop.
- Clean a Dishwasher
Remove and clean filters, wipe down the interior, and run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar.
- Fix a Garage Door
Lubricate moving parts, tighten hardware, and adjust the balance. Regular maintenance keeps the door operating smoothly.
- Maintain Home Safety Equipment
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, replace batteries annually, and ensure fire extinguishers are charged and accessible.
Mastering these tasks empowers homeowners to maintain and enhance their living spaces, fostering a more self-sufficient lifestyle and ensuring a well-kept home. If you’re up for the challenge, here is another list of 50 home improvement items to tackle as well.
Keep Your Home Flowing Smoothly with Palo Alto Plumbing Services!
Is your home experiencing plumbing issues? Don’t let leaks, clogs, or outdated fixtures disrupt your daily life. At Palo Alto Plumbing, we offer top-notch plumbing services to keep your home running efficiently and comfortably.
Why Choose Palo Alto Plumbing?
- Expert Technicians: Our experienced and licensed plumbers are ready to tackle any problem, big or small.
- Reliable Service: We pride ourselves on punctuality and reliability, ensuring your plumbing issues are resolved quickly and effectively.
- Comprehensive Solutions: From emergency repairs to routine maintenance, we cover all your plumbing needs.
- Affordable Rates: Quality service at competitive prices with no hidden fees.
- Customer Satisfaction: Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we won’t rest until the job is done right.
Our Plumbing Services Include:
- Leak detection and repair
- Drain cleaning and unclogging
- Water heater installation and repair
- Fixture upgrades and installations
- Pipe repair and replacement
- Routine plumbing maintenance
Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a major issue. Trust Palo Alto Plumbing to keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape. Call us today!
