Learn how to DIY almost anything: home repairs, auto repairs, lawn maintenance.

“The sewage issue was fixed with a little elbow grease, a pipe snake tool, a breathing mask, a lot of patience, and an hour or two of work. The other two issues were a bit more intimidating because electricity was involved. Luckily, I have a father-in-law who is very independent-minded when it comes to this type of repair challenge who could lend a hand. He’s been around a wrench or two (hundred). I enlisted his help and tried to absorb as much knowledge as I possibly could while working with him on the repairs. About $30 in parts and a few beers later (after playing with electricity, that is), the repairs were diagnosed, and much knowledge was gained. I probably saved $450 just in avoiding having someone come out to diagnose the problem and at least that much on parts/labor for the repairs. Had I completely defected responsibility to a professional, I would have not learned a thing.”

“One of the epiphanies I had along the way was that my years of minor repairs and maintenance had prepared me for this in ways I didn’t fully understand. Once you realize a major repair is really just a lot of minor repairs compiled, then the overall task becomes far less daunting. By breaking a big job up into several smaller, more attainable goals, you can avoid becoming overwhelmed. This also helps maintain a sense of accomplishment. If all I really expected to finish today after work was removing an oil pan, and I got that oil pan off, then I was successful. I made progress — and slow, steady progress is still progress.”

“I do, and it started as a kid. Grew up dirt poor on a farm so of course the kids end up doing everything. I was cooking most of my own meals, mowing the lawn and pastures, and fixing stuff by the time I was a teenager. Kind of a shit upbringing overall, but it did give me a lot of practical life skills. Now I’m 30+ years old and have a fairy high paying job. But I still do all my own yard work, and every vehicle repair that isn’t too intensive (basically anything short of a full engine or transmission rebuild). And that’s mainly for a lack of time and shop space than anything else. I recently tried to tally up how much I’ve saved on automotive repairs over the last 10 years on my current truck and it was staggering, like well over 15,000 dollars if compared to dealership rates. All those water pumps, fuel pumps, random electrical issues, and oil changes really add up over time.”