Before you spend money fixing your home, know what you’re dealing with, what your options are, what it should cost, and whether you should fix it yourself or call a pro.

Start With What You Need to Know
Whether you’re dealing with a repair, comparing costs, shopping for parts, deciding whether to hire a professional, or choosing between repair and replacement, Before You Fix helps you make the decision before you spend the money.
Latest Guides
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Portable vs Standby Generator: Which Do You Need?
Portable and standby generators aren’t interchangeable. Here’s how outage frequency, budget, and what you need to power should shape your decision.
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What Size Generator Do I Need for My House?
Square footage doesn’t determine generator size — what you actually want to power does. Here’s how to size a generator correctly, whether portable or…
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7 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacing
A water heater usually gives warning signs before it fails completely. Here are 7 signs worth watching for, and how to tell if one…
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Why Do Plumbers Charge So Much to Replace a Water Heater?
Water heater replacement costs more than the unit itself. Here’s what’s actually included in a plumber’s quote, and how to tell if the price…
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Repair or Replace a Refrigerator?
Should you repair or replace your refrigerator? Learn how age, repair cost, condition, energy efficiency, and major component failures can affect the decision.
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Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling?
Is your refrigerator not cooling? Learn what to check first, including door seals, airflow, condenser coils, frost buildup, and when to call for professional…










