20 minutes or less
Quick home repairs: fixes in 20 minutes or less
Got a few minutes and something that's been bugging you? Each of these fixes takes 20 minutes or less, and most need only tools you already own.
Plan a weekend of these → Total time, one shopping list and the best order.
20quick fixes
19rated easy
$0–$20parts, for most
Fix a loose, wobbly toilet seatTighten the two seat bolts, or replace stripped hardware.5–10 min
Change your HVAC air filterFind your filter, check which way it goes and learn when to replace it.5 min
Reset a tripped outlet or breakerFind the tripped GFCI or breaker and get the power back safely.5–15 min
Unjam a garbage disposalFree the jam with a hex wrench, then press the reset button.10 min
Fix a squeaky door hingePull the hinge pin, clean it and grease it so it stays quiet.10 min
Stop a smoke alarm from chirpingA new battery, a reset, or a sign the alarm has reached its 10-year limit.10 min
Fix a door that sticks or won't latchCheck the top hinge first. A longer screw often pulls the door back into line.15 min
Unclog a toilet (without the overflow)The right plunger, a slow first push, and an auger if you need one.5–20 min
Bleed a radiatorCold at the top, warm at the bottom? There's air trapped inside.10 min per radiator
Why are my lights flickering?How to tell a loose bulb or the wrong dimmer from a wiring problem.10–20 min
Find your main water shutoffFind it and test it now, so you're not searching with water on the floor.10–20 min
How to find a wall stud (with or without a stud finder)Five ways to find the wood behind the drywall.5–15 min
Clean clogged dishwasher spray armsClear clogged spray holes so water reaches every dish.30–40 min
Reset an electric water heaterWhere the red reset button is, and how to press it safely.15–20 min
Fix a wobbly toiletA rocking toilet can break its seal. Fix it before it leaks.20 min
Fix a crooked or sagging cabinet doorTighten the hinge screws, then use the adjustment screws to line the door back up.10–20 min
Fix low water pressure at one faucetWeak flow at just one faucet? Clean the aerator at the tip of the spout.10–20 min
Take a door off its hingesTap the pins up, bottom hinge first, with someone holding the door.10–20 min
Carbon monoxide alarm beeping? What it meansTell a real alarm from a low-battery chirp, and what to do for each.5–15 min
Pull a stubborn or headless nailLeverage, not force: a block under the claw, and nippers for headless nails.5–15 min
Have a whole Saturday? Browse all fixes or see what's due on the seasonal checklist.