Save the service call

Before you call a pro

Some jobs need a pro. Plenty of others start with a simple check, like a reset button or a clogged filter, that you can do yourself before paying for a visit. Each guide shows what a service call typically costs and the signs that it's time to call someone.

22free checks

$100–$300typical service call

12take 30 minutes or less

Smell gas, see sparks, or have water pouring in? Skip this page and go to emergency steps.

Before you call a plumber

A plumbing service call often starts at $100 or more. Begin with these basic checks to see what may be causing the problem.

• Fix a running toiletCheck the flapper, chain and fill valve to find what's keeping the water running.15–30 min · Pro visit: $150–$300
• Unclog a toilet (without the overflow)The right plunger, a slow first push, and an auger if you need one.5–20 min · Pro visit: $150–$300
• Unclog a sink without chemicalsClear hair and buildup with a plastic snake or plunger, then check the trap if needed.20–45 min · Pro visit: $125–$275
• Unjam a garbage disposalFree the jam with a hex wrench, then press the reset button.10 min · Pro visit: $100–$200
• Find and fix a leak under the sinkDry the area, then follow the drip to find where the leak starts.20–60 min · Pro visit: $150–$350
• Fix low shower water pressureSoak the showerhead in vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup.10 min + soak · Pro visit: $150–$400
• No hot water? Start hereFind out what to check first on your gas or electric water heater.15–45 min · Pro visit: $150–$600
• Reset an electric water heaterWhere the red reset button is, and how to press it safely.15–20 min · Pro visit: $150–$400
• Why your hot water runs out so fastSediment, a failed element, or a heater too small for your home.1–2 hrs · Pro visit: $100–$250

Before you call an electrician

Start with basic checks for resets, bulbs, dimmers and batteries. If anything sparks, smells hot or keeps tripping, call a licensed electrician.

• Reset a tripped outlet or breakerFind the tripped GFCI or breaker and get the power back safely.5–15 min · Pro visit: $100–$250
• Why are my lights flickering?How to tell a loose bulb or the wrong dimmer from a wiring problem.10–20 min · Pro visit: $100–$300
• Stop a smoke alarm from chirpingA new battery, a reset, or a sign the alarm has reached its 10-year limit.10 min · Pro visit: $15–$60

Before you call for heating or AC service

A surprising number of no-heat and no-cool calls end with a new filter or a flipped switch.

• Change your HVAC air filterFind your filter, check which way it goes and learn when to replace it.5 min · Pro visit: $8–$30
• Furnace won't turn onFive free checks, from the thermostat to the furnace door.15–30 min · Pro visit: $100–$300
• AC not cooling? Check these firstStart with the thermostat, filter, breakers and outdoor unit.20–45 min · Pro visit: $100–$300
• Clean your AC condenser coilsBrush, foam and rinse the outdoor unit's fins so it can shed heat.45–60 min · Pro visit: $75–$200
• Bleed a radiatorCold at the top, warm at the bottom? There's air trapped inside.10 min per radiator · Pro visit: $100–$250

Before you call appliance repair

Dirty filters, coils and vents can cause appliance trouble. These guides show you how to check and clean them.

• Dishwasher not drainingClean the filter, then check the disposal, the air gap and the drain hose.20–40 min · Pro visit: $100–$200
• Clean clogged dishwasher spray armsClear clogged spray holes so water reaches every dish.30–40 min · Pro visit: $100–$200
• Clean your refrigerator coilsBrush and vacuum the condenser coils so the fridge doesn't have to work as hard.20–30 min · Pro visit: $150–$400
• Get rid of a smelly washing machineClean the door seal, the detergent drawer and the drain filter.45 min · Pro visit: $100–$200
• Clean your dryer ventClear the lint from the duct for faster drying and less fire risk.45–60 min · Pro visit: $100–$250

Still having trouble? Each guide explains the signs that it's time to call a pro.