Home fixes that cost under $10
Every guide here usually costs $10 or less in parts, and many cost nothing. Often the fix is a cleaning, an adjustment or a reset rather than something new.
Cheap doesn't mean trivial. Several of these, like clearing a condensate drain, resetting a tripped outlet or cleaning fridge coils, head off a service call that usually starts at $100 or more. The fix is often a cleaning, an adjustment or a reset rather than a new part.
Prices assume you already own basic hand tools. If a guide needs something you don't have, like a plastic drain snake, it's usually a few dollars and worth keeping for next time.
Guides in this list
Bleed a radiator
Circuit breaker keeps tripping
Clean clogged dishwasher spray arms
Dishwasher not draining
Door swings open or closed on its own
Find your main water shutoff
Fix a crooked or sagging cabinet door
Fix a door that sticks or won't latch
Fix a squeaky door hinge
Fix a sticking deadbolt or door lock
Fix a sticking wooden drawer
Fix a wobbly ceiling fan
Fix low shower water pressure
Fix low water pressure at one faucet
Garage door opener not responding
Garage door won't close? Check the safety sensors
Garbage disposal smells
Microwave not heating
Reset a tripped outlet or breaker
Take a door off its hinges
Thermostat not working or blank
Unclog a slow bathtub drain
Unjam a garbage disposal
Reset an electric water heater
Under $10 questions
Are cheap fixes worth doing if something bigger might be wrong?
Yes. They're usually the first thing a technician would check anyway, and if one doesn't solve it, you've ruled out the easy causes before paying for a visit.
What should I keep on hand for small fixes?
A screwdriver with a few bits, an adjustable wrench, pliers, a flashlight, some white vinegar and an old towel cover most of this page.
Why does the price say $0 to $10?
The low end is when the fix is a cleaning or a reset. The high end covers a small part, like a flapper, a battery or a filter.