20 minutes or less
Quick Fixes
Got a few minutes and a screwdriver? Each of these takes 20 minutes or less, most need tools you already own, and every one of them fixes something that's been bugging you.
15quick fixes
14rated easy
$0–$20parts, for most
Fix a loose, wobbly toilet seatTwo bolts and five minutes. You don't even need to touch the water.5–10 min
Change your HVAC air filterTwo minutes, and your system runs cheaper and cleaner.5 min
Reset a tripped outlet or breakerHalf the house lost power? It's usually a button or a switch.5–15 min
Unjam a garbage disposalIt hums but won't spin? You don't need a plumber for this one.10 min
Fix a squeaky door hingeFive minutes and no WD-40 required.10 min
Stop a smoke alarm from chirpingThat chirp at 3 a.m. has a simple cause, and sometimes a hidden one.10 min
Fix a door that sticks or won't latchUsually it's a loose hinge screw, not a door that needs sanding.15 min
Unclog a toilet (without the overflow)The right plunger and one trick keep this from getting worse.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?One flickering light is easy. Many at once is a different story.10–20 min
Find your main water shutoffThe one thing every homeowner should know before a pipe bursts.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 armsFood on the dishes after a cycle? The spray holes are probably clogged.15–20 min
Reset an electric water heaterNo hot water, but the breaker's fine? Press the hidden red button.15–20 min
Fix a wobbly toiletA rocking toilet can break its seal. Fix it before it leaks.20 min
Have a whole Saturday? Browse all guides or see what's due on the seasonal checklist.