It doesn’t matter if you just bought your home or you’ve owned a home for 20 plus years, there are going to be issues that pop up and surprise you. Learn what to do for these 6 common issues.

Water, water everywhere

Flooding, overflowing sinks, burst pipes…all of these things and more can send you into a panic as water pools around your ankles. Make sure you know exactly where the water shut-off valve is and how to shut it off. This will at least give you time to assess the issue and either fix it yourself or call a qualified plumber.

Breathe fresh air

If your allergies are acting up, your power bill suddenly shoots up or your HVAC unit is making a suspicious rattling noise, there could be a simple and inexpensive solution. Many homeowners don’t realize that they should be changing the air filter in their HVAC unit every two months. They also might not realize how easy it is. Check your unit’s owners manual or call a certified HVAC professional for more information.

Fix a toilet

Hurry! Your two-year-old just flushed his favorite fire truck down the toilet. What do you do? Easy. Grab your plunger, auger and turn off the water behind the toilet. Insert the auger into the toilet and crank until you start to feel resistance. The idea is to try to snag whatever is in there and pull it out. If this is unsuccessful (or you feel better about leaving all of this up to the pros), find a plumber you trust.

Pick a lock

We’ve all done it: we've locked an internal door and then come back later to realize your mistake. Lucky for you, all you need is a slim piece of metal like a small flathead screwdriver to slip into the hole made for occasions just like this one. When you insert the screwdriver you feel the spring inside compress. Turn it and viola! The door is unlocked. In case it’s not that easy, have a trusted locksmith in mind.

Which breaker to turn off

Whether you’re adding a ceiling fan or experiencing an electric emergency, it’s important to know which breaker goes to which region of the house. Label them so that you’ll know just what to do in case of an emergency. Keep in mind that electric issues can be dangerous and you should definitely consult an expert electrician.

How to safely use a ladder

Hanging pictures, cleaning gutters or scrubbing dirty windows may all require you to get up on a ladder. There are a few easy things you can do to make sure you stay safe:

• Make sure the rung locks are anchored in place
• Use levelers on the feet if you’re on uneven ground
• Put a stabilizer on top if you can’t lean on a steady surface
• When setting up the ladder, stand with the ladder at your feet and extend your arms straight out
• Face the ladder as you go up or down
• Never go higher than the fourth rung from the top

Home upkeep can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little knowledge and the right people on your side, you’re set for anything life throws your way. Find service providers you trust at KSL Local.

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