Solve your problem now and skip the article by chatting with a Mavyn expert, or keep reading below.
No More Calling the Handyman: Simple Solutions for Common Household Issues
Dealing with household issues can often seem daunting, leading many to call a handyman for even the simplest of fixes. However, with a bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can handle many common problems on your own. Here’s how you can address some typical household issues without professional help, and when to consider consulting with Mavyn’s AI or human experts for guidance.
1. Unclogging Drains
Clogged drains are a frequent nuisance in many homes. Before you call a plumber, try these steps:
- Use boiling water: Pour it down the drain to help dissolve organic substances.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar into the drain, wait 15 minutes, and then rinse with hot water.
- Plunger: A good plunging can help remove blockages caused by hair and other debris.
2. Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet can waste a lot of water. Here are simple fixes:
- Adjust the float: Sometimes, the float is set too high which causes water to spill into the overflow tube. Adjust it lower to stop the water at the correct level.
- Replace the flapper: If the toilet continues to run, the flapper may need to be replaced. This is a cheap and easy fix.
3. Patch Up Holes in Drywall
Small holes in drywall can be an eyesore but are easy to fix:
- Use spackle: Apply spackle to the hole, smooth it with a putty knife, and paint over it once it dries.
- Drywall patch kit: For slightly larger holes, use a patch kit which includes a self-adhesive patch that you can plaster over and paint.
4. Tightening Loose Screws
Loose screws on door hinges or cabinets can make your home feel rundown. Tighten them up in minutes:
- Screwdriver: Simply tighten the screws with the appropriate screwdriver.
- Stripped screws: If the screw won’t tighten, remove it, stuff a few toothpicks into the hole to take up space, and then re-screw.
5. Stopping Door Squeaks
A squeaky door can be annoying but is easily fixed:
- Lubricate the hinges: Use a lubricant spray like WD-40 on the door hinges.
- Petroleum jelly: If you don’t have a lubricant, petroleum jelly works as a good alternative.
When to Consult Mavyn
While many issues can be resolved with DIY methods, some might require a bit more expertise. If you’re unsure about a fix or need more detailed guidance, Mavyn is here to help. You can:
- Chat with Mavyn GPT: For AI-driven advice that’s available 24/7.
- Connect with a Human Expert: For personalized guidance from a professional in real-time.
Handling common household issues yourself can be empowering and cost-effective. With these tips, you can tackle many problems without needing to call a handyman. And remember, for the issues that are out of your depth, Mavyn’s experts are just a chat away. Happy fixing!