Things are always things going wrong in the average household, with water and heating systems, not to mention a complex network of electrical wiring. Most of the time one would call in a specialist as our knowledge is limited, and there could be serious consequences if one got it wrong.  There are, however, small repairs that one can carry out without the help of a professional, and here are just a few examples.

Austell, Georgia, November 2, 2009: A contractor making repairs to a home flooded during the severe storms and flooding in September 2009. David Fine/FEMA
Austell, Georgia, November 2, 2009: A contractor making repairs to a home flooded during the severe storms and flooding in September 2009. David Fine/FEMA

Changing a plug

Should the plug on an electrical appliance need replacing, this is a relatively easy task, and one need not call in a handy man. Make sure the fuse is suitable, and also that the screw connections are configured correctly. The colour coding will be clearly marked on the plug, but if one is in any doubt, open the plug on another appliance and check the connection order, just to be sure.

Repairing a cut power lead

Often an electrical cord will be damaged, especially when moving heavy furniture or appliances across a floor. If one notices a split or cut in the outer layer, unplug the appliance and examine the damaged area. If there is only a breach in the outer plastic coating and the inner cables are intact, simply wind some insulation tape from one end to the other, allowing an extra inch or so either side. This needs to be tight, with no exposed ends. It is not uncommon for a cut cord to happen during renovations or home improvements, as workers are using extensions and power tools.

Changing a fuse

This is relatively simple, and of course, one must shut off the main power supply first. The damaged fuse should be evident by a dark stain, and make sure the replacement fuse is the same specification. If a person in Western Australia would rather have someone they can call on anytime, building maintenance in Perth from Men Behaving Handy can keep the home in good order, and they have qualified tradesmen that can handle any issue.

Repairing a severed electric cable

If a power line has been severed, unplug from the mains immediately, as it could cause a short circuit. Remove at least 2 inches of the outer cable from each end, then remove a little of the three inner wire coverings to expose the copper wire, and do this on both ends. Then connect each colour to its corresponding colour by winding the two together. After completing one connection, it is important to cover it with insulating tape. Repeat this process with the other two wires, and then wind insulating tape tightly around the entire cable, starting a few inches before the join and continuing until the same distance on the other side. Electrical repairs must be properly carried out, so if one is unsure, it makes sense to call in an electrician.

Many of the domestic problems are best left to the experts, and by using a handyman service, it is a one stop solution, as they can tackle anything from a leaky faucet to a major renovation.