Easy, Budget-Friendly Home Repair and Maintenance

"At least once a year, disconnect the dryer and vacuum out the back of the dryer, as well as the exhaust pipe. If your dryer exhaust pipe backs up to an exterior wall, this is a simple task. It's a little trickier when you have a longer length of rigid exhaust pipe that goes "up and over" to the exterior, or vents through the roof. I take a shop-vac and CAREFULLY snake the hose (no attachments!) up into the vent. Push it until you meet any resistance, then stop. Stuff a rag around the opening to make a seal, and then run the vacuum for 5-10 minutes. You'll be surprised what comes out! Is that where all the socks go? If your dryer exhausts on an exterior wall, inspect that end for any accumulated lint. Check the vent flap and make sure it opens freely."

Master plumber and plumbing expert on JustAnswer.com, Rico Soma suggests a tip that can improve your home and save you money every month.

"Replacing an old shower head is an easy home repair that can save water and save money on your water bill," shares Rico. "Most modern shower heads use two gallons of water per minute or less and provide an enjoyable showering experience. All you need is an adjustable wrench, some Teflon tape, and your new showerhead.

"To remove the old head adjust your wrench so it will fit on the flat part of the old shower head where it attaches to the pipe (shower arm) coming out of the wall. Unscrew the old head in a counter clockwise direction. Once the old head is off, wrap several turns of Teflon tape around the threads of the shower arm in a clockwise direction pulling the tape into the threads as you go. Screw your new head onto the arm by hand then use you wrench to tighten the head on the last few turns. You don't need to strain to make the connection tight.

"Now you're ready to enjoy a relaxing shower and you've done something to help save money and the planet!"

You've likely heard the old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This is particularly true when it comes to home maintenance and repairs. It is well worth spending a few dollars and a little bit of time and energy now to avoid the need for pricey fixes later.

HouseMaster, the oldest and largest home inspection franchisor in the United States recommends several DIY jobs you can do in an afternoon and for less than $25.

HouseMaster experts suggest that you change your home's air filter regularly. Clogged filters reduce heating and cooling efficiency and can reduce the useful life of the appliance. Visit your neighborhood hardware store to find affordable air filters and inquire about buying a case of them. Most retailers offer a case discount, and you will have a dozen filters on hand - one for every month of the year. Make it a habit to change your air filter every month when you pay your utility bills.