Local homeowner field notes

Useful advice for the house you live in.

Practical maintenance checklists, DIY guidance, and plain-language help for Kentuckiana homeowners. When a job needs a business, each guide points back to the local directory.

Plumbing 9 min read Beginner

Water Heater Maintenance: How to Flush Your Tank and Extend Its Life

Sediment buildup kills water heaters early. Here is how to flush your tank, check the anode rod, and add years to your unit.

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Plumbing 10 min read Intermediate

How to Unclog a Main Sewer Line Without Calling a Plumber

Warning signs of a main line clog and how to clear it yourself with a drain snake, before spending hundreds on a plumber.

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Plumbing 7 min read Beginner

How to Replace a Leaky Faucet in Under an Hour

A dripping faucet wastes water and money. Here is how to swap it out yourself with basic tools in less than 60 minutes.

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Plumbing 7 min read Beginner

Find Your Water Shutoff Valve Before an Emergency

Don't wait until a pipe bursts to figure out where your water shutoff is. Here's how to locate every shutoff in your home — and test them before you need them.

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Plumbing 9 min read Beginner

How to Insulate Pipes to Prevent Freezing

A frozen pipe can burst and release hundreds of gallons of water into your home in minutes. Here's how to identify your vulnerable pipes, insulate them properly, and protect your home before the next cold snap hits.

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Plumbing 10 min read Intermediate

How to Snake and Maintain Your Sewer Cleanout

Learn how to locate your sewer cleanout, clear a main line clog with a drain snake, and keep your sewer line flowing with annual maintenance tips.

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Plumbing 8 min read Beginner

How to Adjust or Replace a Toilet Fill Valve

Fix a running, slow-filling, or whistling toilet by adjusting or replacing the fill valve. Step-by-step guide using the Fluidmaster 400A with no special tools needed.

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