Fixing Small Things

What it is

Small home fixes — a clogged drain, a hung picture, finding the water shut-off.

Why it helps you

You save money and feel capable. You don’t have to call (and pay) someone for everything.

This opens up

Confidence at home.

Where to get help

If you rent

Big repairs, like leaks, heat, power, or broken locks, are usually your landlord’s job. Tell them in writing, like a text or email, and keep a copy. Ask before you drill holes or change anything.

Free how-to videos for beginners

Dad, how do I? Calm, friendly videos that show everyday fixes step by step, like a clogged drain or a running toilet. Made for people who never had someone to teach them.

• Cost: Free
• Who can use it: Anyone.
• How to start: On YouTube, open the channel and click “Playlists.” Pick the home repair list.
• Good to know: You need internet. No account needed to watch.

Mercury Stardust Short, kind videos on small fixes for renters, like squeaky doors, slow drains, and small holes in walls. She also talks about how to work with a landlord.

• Cost: Free videos. She also sells books, which you may be able to borrow from your library.
• Who can use it: Anyone.
• How to start: Search “Mercury Stardust” on YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram.
• Good to know: You need internet.

See Jane Drill Clear videos and written steps that show how tools and home parts work, up close.

• Cost: Free videos. There is also a paid course, but you don’t need it.
• Who can use it: Anyone.
• How to start: Search “See Jane Drill” on YouTube, or look up a fix on the website.
• Good to know: You need internet.

Borrow tools instead of buying them

Find a tool library A tool library is like a book library, but for tools. You can borrow a drill, a wrench, or a ladder for a few days.

• Cost: Often free. Some ask for a small yearly fee.
• Who can use it: Usually people who live in that area.
• How to start: Look for one near you on the map. Also call your public library and ask, “Do you lend tools, or have a ‘library of things’?”
• Good to know: Many ask for a photo ID and proof of address. The map doesn’t list every tool library, so it’s worth asking your library too.

Simple guides and checklists

Find your local Cooperative Extension office State universities share free guides and checklists for taking care of a home.

• Cost: Free
• Who can use it: Anyone.
• How to start: Pick your state. Search the site for “home maintenance.”
• Good to know: You can call your county office with questions.

Before you hire someone

FTC: How to avoid a home improvement scam A short government guide to spotting repair scams and hiring someone safely.

• Cost: Free
• Who can use it: Anyone.
• How to start: Read the warning signs before you let anyone work on your home.
• Good to know: If you rent, ask your landlord before you hire anyone.

If you only do one thing first

Find your home’s main water shut-off valve, and the shut-off behind your toilet. If a pipe bursts or a toilet overflows, turning off the water stops the flood. The main valve is often near the water heater, under the kitchen sink, in a basement, or where the water pipe comes into the home. If you can’t find it, ask your landlord to show you. Also find your breaker box (the panel of switches that controls power), so you know where it is before you need it.

Watch out for

• Electrical work and gas. Changing a light bulb or flipping a tripped breaker back on is fine. If an outlet feels warm, smells like burning, sparks, or a breaker keeps tripping, stop using it and tell your landlord or an electrician. If you smell gas, leave first, then call your gas company or 911 from outside.
• Over-tightening pipes. Tighten by hand, then just a little more with a wrench. Too much force can crack parts and cause a bigger leak.
• Mixing drain cleaners. Never use two kinds of drain cleaner, or mix one with bleach. It can splash back or make toxic gas. Try a plunger first.
• People who knock and say they’re “working in the area.” They may push you to decide fast and want cash up front. Real workers give a written price first.
• Very cheap locksmith ads. If you get locked out, some online ads promise a low price, then charge much more on the spot. Ask for the full price before they come, and call your landlord first if you rent.
• Calls saying your power or water will be shut off today. Real utility companies don’t demand gift cards or prepaid cards. Hang up and call the number on your bill.