Have you ever opened a form bill and studied, “ stay they charged me that important commodity I presumably could’ve done myself? ” Yeah, me too. retaining a home — or indeed renting — comes with a laundry list of little effects that break, leak, or squeak. And while it’s tempting to call a professional for every hiatus, the variety of fixes are completely realizable on your own.
So moment, let’s walk through 7 DIY fixes that can save you hundreds in form costs. Do n’t worry — I’ll keep it real, practical, and friendly, just like if we were drooling over tea at your kitchen table.
Why Small Repairs Turn Into Big Expenses
Problem: Home repairs can be ridiculously expensive. A plumber charges a call-out fee before even touching the wrench, and electricians? Don’t even get me started.
Agitate: I once paid nearly AED 500 in Dubai just to get a clogged sink fixed. The man finished the job in just 10 minutes. Guess what he used? Baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water. Things I already had in my kitchen. That was the moment I decided, “Never again.”
Solution: With a little know-how and courage, you can tackle common problems yourself. And I promise, you don’t need a full toolbox or a degree in engineering. Just patience, everyday items, and these simple hacks.
1. Unclogging a Sink with Pantry Staples
Professional cost: AED 300–500
DIY cost: Less than AED 10
Here’s the trick: pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down the drain. Place a cloth over it for about 10 minutes. Then flush with boiling water.
I’ve done this multiple times, and not only does it work, but it also saves me from those overpriced plumber visits. And if you’re in the UAE where water drains can get sluggish from sand and mineral build-up, this hack is gold.
2. Fixing a Running Toilet in 5 Minutes
Professional cost: AED 250–400
DIY cost: AED 20 (for a flapper replacement)
That constant running sound? It’s like money literally going down the drain. Most of the time, the problem comes from a worn flapper inside the tank. Just shut off the water, pop the tank lid, and swap out the rubber flapper. No tools required.
I did this once while guests were over, and they were shocked it took less time than making coffee.
3. Patching a Wall Hole Without a Professional
Professional cost: AED 400–600
DIY cost: AED 40
Got a hole from hanging frames or maybe a doorknob bump? All you need is some wall putty, a scraper, and a bit of sandpaper. Patch it up, let it dry, sand it smooth, then repaint.
I once used this trick before moving out of a rented apartment in Sharjah—it saved my deposit.
4. Quieting Squeaky Doors with Cooking Oil
Professional cost AED 150 – 300
DIY cost Free
That treble door driving you nuts? You do n’t need WD- 40 if you do n’t have it. A little olive oil or coconut oil on the hinge works just as effectively. Open and close the door many times, and voilà — silence.
I’ve actually used this hack in a hostel room formerly when the door grassed every time I went for a night snack.
5. Resetting a Tripped Circuit Breaker
Professional cost AED 300 – 500
DIY cost Free
still, do n’t fear, If half your house suddenly loses power. Head to the swell box( generally in a hallway or storehouse room). Find a switch that’s sitting between “on” and “off.” Flip it all the way out, also back on.
Of course, if it keeps tripping, call an electrician. But for those one- off cases? You just saved a big bill.
6. Sealing Drafty Windows with Weatherstripping
Professional cost: AED 500–700
DIY cost: AED 50
If you’re blasting the AC in the UAE heat, but still feel warm air sneaking in, you’re basically donating money to the utility company. Apply adhesive weatherstripping tape around windows and doors. It helps trap cool air inside, block out hot air, and reduce your DEWA bill. This is especially important for flats in Dubai Marina or Abu Dhabi where energy costs rise quickly.
7. Replacing Showerheads for Better Water Flow
Professional cost AED 300 – 500
DIY cost AED 70
Mineral buildup from hard water makes showerheads chat. Rather than calling for conservation, just wind the old head with your hand or a wrench, serape plumber’s tape recording on the vestments, and screw on a new bone .
When I shifted mine, the difference was night and day — felt like stepping into a hostel shower.
Quick Cost Comparison
| Repair Task | Pro Cost (AED) | DIY Cost (AED) | Savings |
| Unclogging a sink | 300–500 | 10 | 290+ |
| Fixing a running toilet | 250–400 | 20 | 230+ |
| Patching wall holes | 400–600 | 40 | 360+ |
| Quieting squeaky doors | 150–300 | Free | 150+ |
| Resetting a breaker | 300–500 | Free | 300+ |
| Sealing drafty windows | 500–700 | 50 | 450+ |
| Replacing a showerhead | 300–500 | 70 | 230+ |
That’s over AED 2,000 in savings from just a few DIY tricks.
Why DIY Fixes Make Sense
Sure, professionals are important. But for little issues? You’re frequently paying for the convenience, not the complexity. With these DIY fixes that can save you hundreds in form costs, you keep further plutocrats in your fund for effects that actually count — like family jaunts, investments, or indeed just a good shawarma regale.
FAQs About DIY Repairs
Q1: Are DIY repairs safe?
Yes — for small tasks. Always switch off electricity and water before starting. Leave complex jobs( like rewiring or gas leaks) to professionals.
Q2: What introductory tools should I keep at home?
A screwdriver set, pliers, hammer, conduit tape recording, and a wrench are enough for utmost DIY fixes.
Q3: Will DIY fixes void my landlord agreement?
Not usually, as long as you’re just patching, tightening, or replacing small items. Always check your lease first.
Q4: How much money can DIY home repairs really save?
Easily hundreds per year, especially if you live in the UAE where service calls are pricey.
Q5: What’s the stylish freshman-friendly fix?
Unclogging a drain it’s cheap, safe, and confidence- boosting.
Final Thoughts
Then the nethermost line DIY fixes that can save you hundreds in form costs are n’t just about plutocrats. They’re about independence, confidence, and being smart with your coffers. Start small, learn as you go, and soon you’ll wonder why you ever paid someone to strain a hinge.
Ready to cover your home and portmanteau?( Compare home insurance quotes then) and make sure those bigger, unanticipated problems do n’t wipe out your savings.