If you are the type of person who would rather fix the car yourself instead of calling a mechanic, you have likely picked up a few expert tips over the years. Fixing your own appliances though isn’t just for the pros. Anyone can save themselves a few extra dollars by learning some simple installation or maintenance techniques for your plumbing, electricity, and devices.
Below are some of the best tips and tricks for at-home DIY projects. Whether you are dealing with a clogged pipe or a faulty piece of machinery, these hacks can help you get the job done.
Stock Up on the Right Gear
Half of any maintenance job is just acquiring the proper equipment. Having a plumber come out and look at your pipes can cost you hundreds of dollars before they even start.
With the right gear and a few informational guides, you can do the same job yourself for way less. Visit popular gear sites like BarterDesign.co to purchase tools for quick fixes, like the best PEX Crimp tool you need. With a small short-term investment, you are privy to massive long-term savings.
If you don’t know where to start with acquiring equipment, begin with the basics. A general tool kit should include basics like a screwdriver and a hammer. Once you have this, you can move on to whatever equipment you feel will get the most use.
Pretty soon you’ll have a full collection that you can use to get you through any maintenance emergency.
Take Notes
While you learn your way through repairs and installations, you are bound to make a few mistakes. This is why most experts highly recommend taking notes. Each time you are able to fix an appliance, write down what you did and which tools you used. Store these in your toolbox. This way, the next time you have an issue, even if it’s ten years down the line, you will have a handy guide to let you know where to start.
Draw diagrams to help you remember where certain parts are located. This is especially important if you replace certain parts. Note the year of each component so that you know when things need to be replaced. It can begin to get complicated if you start to replace certain parts but not others. Keep annotations indicating the year of each replacement for your records.
Watch the Pros
Some jump right in and try to fix their appliances on the first try, but this is not always possible. If you are someone who wants to learn to DIY your maintenance, but doesn’t have a clue how to start, begin by watching.
The next time you hire a professional to fix your pipes or replace your water heater, watch and ask questions. If you see the process being done, you are more capable of completing the same maintenance or installation task on your own next time.
Over the years, you’ll learn more and more. Suddenly you’ll find yourself completing difficult projects easily.
The Bottom Line
Installing your own lighting or doing repairs on your car may feel out of reach. Not all of us are instinctively good with technology and appliances. Whether you’re a DIY pro or a newbie though, it is possible to maintain your own home without the help of contracted professionals.
There are ways to do it yourself and avoid shelling out cash to have someone else do the job. Get the right gear, keep track of your projects and equipment, and learn at every chance you get. These tips will help you to save time and money in the long run.
