How To Maintain A House In The UK
Every homeowner knows the sinking feeling of a radiator breaking in mid-winter or a pipe leaking just as the bills arrive, often resulting in a massive hit to your savings and the frustration of dealing with costly, unreliable tradesmen. When I first bought my home, my savings were at an all-time low, forcing me to swap expensive callout fees for DIY solutions learned through trial, error, and many hours at the local library.
Over 20 years of renovations and countless headaches later, I’ve transformed those early struggles into professional-grade expertise, and I created the UK Home Maintenance Hub to help you become a “home repair hero” too. Here, you’ll find my step-by-step tutorials for fixing everyday problems yourself, paired with our Research Team’s data-driven reviews on the most reliable, energy-efficient appliances to ensure your home runs smoothly without breaking the bank.
Heating & Cooling: Repairs & Appliance Data
Whether you’re trying to bleed a cold radiator in the dead of winter or looking for the most energy-efficient portable AC for a summer heatwave, we have you covered. Browse Mat’s practical heating repairs below, or check out the Research Team’s data on the cheapest electric heaters to run on the current UK energy cap.
Mat's DIY Fixes
Appliance Data & Reviews
Improving Home Appliances
Home appliances are a great way to save time and make our lives easier. Unfortunately, when they stop working, the can be an absolute pain to fix. Here are the most common problems there are.
Mat's DIY Fixes
Appliance Data & Reviews
DIY Plumbing and Electrical Fixes
Water, water everywhere? How’s about we try and keep it from spreading further with the easy plumbing fixes, no need for a tradesman. Same goes for electrical, so long as you take the correct safety precautions, issues like a faulty light switch or a broken power point can be a quick and easy fix.
Mat's DIY Fixes
Appliance Data & Reviews
Painting and Renovating For Beginners
Nothing freshens up a room like a fresh coat of paint and some redecorating, brining your old nan’s house into the modern age. Now painting isn’t my favourite activity under the DIY umbrella, but these tips can make the experience a lot nicer and less time consuming.
Mat's DIY Fixes
Appliance Data & Reviews
Kitchen and Bathroom Repairs Anyone Can Fix
These are the go to rooms for every DIY home improvement project. A sure fire way to improve your home value and comfort is an upgrade to your kitchen and bathroom with a complete rebuild. Some of the higher skilled activities like waterproofing may need a professional but there are plenty of jobs you can do yourself at a fraction of the cost.
Mat's DIY Fixes
Appliance Data & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions: Indoor Home Maintenance
Can I legally do my own electrical work in the UK?
For minor jobs like replacing an existing light switch, socket faceplate, or ceiling rose, you can usually do the work yourself provided you follow safety protocols. However, under Part P of the UK Building Regulations, any major work, such as adding new circuits or working in a bathroom, must be carried out or signed off by a certified “Competent Person” (a qualified electrician).
What is the most common cause of damp in UK homes?
While rising damp and penetrating damp get the most attention, the most common culprit is actually condensation. Poor ventilation, drying clothes indoors, and cooking without an extractor fan trap moisture inside. You can usually manage this by opening trickle vents, using a high-quality dehumidifier, and ensuring your home is adequately heated.
Is it cheaper to repair an old appliance or buy a new one?
It depends on the appliance’s age and the cost of the part. As a general rule, if an appliance is over 7 years old and the repair quote is more than 50% of the cost of a new model, it is more cost-effective to replace it. Newer models also feature much higher energy efficiency ratings, which will save you money on your monthly running costs under current UK tariffs.
How often should I bleed my radiators?
You should bleed all your radiators at least once a year, ideally in early autumn before you turn your central heating on full-time. If you hear gurgling noises or notice the radiators are hot at the bottom but cold at the top, that is a sign trapped air needs to be released immediately.
Should I hire a tradesman or DIY a plumbing leak?
If a leak is easily accessible, like a loose trap under a kitchen sink or a dripping tap washer, a competent DIYer can usually fix it with basic tools. However, if the leak is hidden behind walls, under floorboards, involves the mains water stopcock, or relates to your boiler, you should always call a professional to avoid causing extensive water damage.
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