Home repairs can be intimidating, but with the right knowledge and tools, they can be simple and cost-effective. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of common household repairs, including lightbulb replacements, drywall patching and everything in between.

How To Fix A Leaking Faucet

Tools You Need To Fix A Leaking Faucet

• Screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement O-ring or washer (this will depend on your faucet type)
• Plumber's tape (aka Teflon tape)
• Towel (to catch any drips)

How To Fix A Leaking Faucet

• Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Step 2: Remove the handle and cover plate.
• Step 3: Locate the leaky part (it's usually the O-ring or washer).
• Step 4: Replace the faulty part with the new one.
• Step 5: Reassemble the handle and cover plate.
• Step 6: Turn the water supply back on and test for leaks.

How To Replace A Light Switch

Tools You Need To Replace A Light Switch

• Flat-head screwdriver (to remove the cover plate)
• Voltage tester (to ensure the power is off)
• Wire cutter (to snip the wires)
• Wire stripper (to expose the wire ends)
• Wire nut (to connect the wires)
• New light switch

How To Replace A Light Switch

• Step 1: Turn off the power to the light switch at the breaker box.
• Step 2: Remove the cover plate and unscrew the switch from the wall.
• Step 3: Disconnect the wires from the old switch, being careful to remember which wire goes where.
• Step 4: Strip about half an inch of insulation from the ends of the wires with the wire stripper.
• Step 5: Connect the wires to the new switch, matching the colours and ensuring the connections are tight.
• Step 6: Screw the new switch into the wall box and secure the cover plate.
• Step 7: Turn on the power at the breaker box and flip the switch to make sure it's working properly.

How To Patch A Drywall

Tools You Need To Patch A Drywall

• Drywall saw (to cut out the damaged area)
• Putty knife (to apply the joint compound)
• Drywall tape (to reinforce the joint)
• Joint compound (aka "mud") to fill in the hole
• Sandpaper or Drywall Sander (to smooth out the patched area)
• Vacuum (to clean up any dust)
• Brush (to dust off any remaining debris)

How To Patch A Drywall

• Step 1: Use the drywall saw to cut out the damaged section, making sure to leave clean, straight edges.
• Step 2: Apply the drywall tape over the cut edges and spread the joint compound over the tape, feathering it out onto the surrounding wall.
• Step 3: Allow the joint compound to dry for 24 hours.
• Step 4: Apply a second coat of joint compound and let it dry.
• Step 5: Sand the patched area until it's smooth and level with the surrounding wall.
• Step 6: Apply a coat of paint or primer to blend it in with the rest of the wall.

How To Replace A Lightbulb

Tools You Need To Replace A Lightbulb

• A ladder (if the light is high up)
• A clean cloth or towel (to clean the bulb and light fixture)
• A replacement bulb that is the correct wattage and size for the fixture.

How To Replace A Lightbulb

• Step 1: Turn off the power to the light fixture at the breaker box.
• Step 2: Allow the bulb to cool down before touching it.
• Step 3: Remove the old bulb by gently twisting it counterclockwise.
• Step 4: Wipe the bulb and fixture clean with a cloth or towel.
• Step 5: Install the new bulb by gently twisting it clockwise into the fixture.
• Step 6: Turn the power back on at the breaker box and test the new bulb.

How To Fix A Clogged Drain

Tools You Need To Fix A Clogged Drain

• Plunger (this is the most important tool!)
• Drain snake or auger (a long flexible metal cable with a hooked end that can reach deep into the drain)
• Bucket (to catch any water that may come out of the drain)
• Flashlight (to see into the drain)
• Rubber gloves (to protect your hands from any gross stuff that may come out of the drain)
• Baking soda and vinegar solution (to help clear the clog)

How To Fix A Clogged Drain

• Step 1: First, try using a plunger to try and dislodge the clog. Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down firmly.
• Step 2: If the plunger doesn't work, try using a drain snake or auger. Insert it into the drain and carefully work it back and forth to dislodge the clog.
• Step 3: If those methods don't work, try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. The baking soda and vinegar will create a fizzy reaction that can help break up the clog.
• Step 4: After you've poured the baking soda and vinegar mixture down the drain, let it sit for about 15 minutes.
• Step 5: Boil a pot of water and slowly pour it down the drain. The hot water will help loosen any remaining debris in the drain.
• Step 6: Turn on the water and check to see if the drain is now flowing freely.
• Step 7: If the drain is still clogged, you may need to call a professional plumber to clear it out.