Sample issue

Hi there,

This month's repair: the toilet flapper

If your toilet runs or refills on its own, the rubber flapper at the bottom of the tank is probably worn. Turn off the water behind the toilet, flush to empty the tank, unhook the old flapper and take it to the store to match the size. The new one clips on in minutes.

More in Fix a running toilet.

Safety tip

Before any electrical work, even changing a light fixture, turn off the breaker and check with a non-contact voltage tester. Labels on panels are often wrong.

Reader question

"A roofer knocked and says he can fix storm damage today if I pay cash up front. OK?" That's a classic warning sign. Check licenses, get written estimates and never pay a large deposit in cash. See Avoid home repair scams.

Happy fixing,
The Clever Haven