Everyone wants to believe their home is in pristine condition. Unfortunately, there may be hidden problems in your home that could be impacting your health or costing you money. Many of these issues can be fixed without too much fuss. With as little as $50, you can mend these six problems.
1. Drafty Windows and Doors
Drafts can drive up your energy bills by making your heating and cooling systems work harder. A simple solution is to use weather stripping or a door draft stopper, both of which cost under $50. Foam tape or silicone sealants can also help seal small gaps around windows. For extra insulation, consider installing a plastic window film kit during colder months.
2. Clogged or Slow Drains
A slow drain is often caused by hair, grease, or soap buildup, but it’s an easy fix. A drain snake or a baking soda and vinegar solution can work wonders. Pouring boiling water down the drain can also help break down grease and debris. If you need a stronger solution, enzyme-based drain cleaners are safe for pipes and cost under $50.
3. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
A dirty HVAC filter reduces airflow, making your system less efficient and increasing energy costs. Replacing air filters every few months ensures cleaner indoor air and better system performance. Many high-quality filters are available for under $50 and take only minutes to install. Clean filters help prevent dust buildup in your home, improving air quality for allergy sufferers.
4. Leaky Faucets
That constant drip from your faucet is not only annoying but can also waste gallons of water every day. Replacing a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the faucet is a cheap and easy fix. Most faucet repair kits cost less than $50 and include all the tools you need. If ignored, a leaky faucet can lead to higher water bills and even water damage.
5. Loose Cabinet Handles and Hinges
Over time, cabinet handles and hinges can loosen, making them wobbly or difficult to use. A simple screwdriver can tighten loose screws, but if they’re stripped, adding a drop of wood glue or using a larger screw can help. For outdated handles, upgrading to new hardware is an inexpensive way to refresh your cabinets. Many modern cabinet pulls and knobs are available for under $50 and can make a big impact.
6. Mold and Mildew in the Bathroom
We’ve unfortunately had issues with mold and mildew in the rentals we’ve had. This is because mold and mildew thrive in humid environments, like the bathroom. You might be surprised to find out that this is a fairly easy thing to fix. Vinegar and baking soda can be effective in cleaning the affected areas. You can also check out anti-mold sprays and mold-resistant caulk to prevent future growth. Running a dehumidifier or vent fan can help too. All of this is doable for under $50.
Small Fixes, Big Impact
There may be hidden problems in your home that you weren’t aware of. Thankfully, many of these issues don’t require a huge budget. You can pull them off for under $50 and significantly improve your living space. Ultimately, these minor fixes could save you from huge expenses down the road.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.
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