
Energy Bills Strain Most Americans, Audits Offer Relief
A Consumer Reports survey finds many households cutting essentials to keep up with rising utility costs.
Live Poll
Have rising energy bills forced you to cut back on other household spending?
Across the United States, coverage here takes in DIY maintenance, plumbing, electrical projects and common household repairs. This page provides information for owners on essential upkeep and seasonal home maintenance.

A Consumer Reports survey finds many households cutting essentials to keep up with rising utility costs.
Live Poll
Have rising energy bills forced you to cut back on other household spending?
November 6, 2026
Hidden Home Costs Reach $16,566 a YearA Zillow and Thumbtack analysis finds U.S. homeowners face an average of $1,380 per month in costs beyond the mortgage.
November 6, 2026
Generator Owner Asks About Neutral Wire ChangeA homeowner's plan to remove a white wire from a generator's ground screw drew warnings from commenters about conflicting wiring diagrams and possible connection loss.
November 5, 2026
Makita Launches Three New Cordless ToolsThe XFD17 driver drill, XPH17 hammer driver drill, and XWT20 impact wrench are now listed for pre-order at Acme Tools.
November 2, 2026
Man Builds Indestructible Mailbox After Repeated HitsA homeowner anchored his mailbox in a deep concrete foundation after it was struck eight times in one year.
October 28, 2026
DigiKey Expands Standard Product Portfolio for PrototypingThe electronic component distributor adds new tools for repair, assembly, and prototyping to its catalog.
October 26, 2026
Netflix to Remove Small Engine Repair on October 27The 2021 drama featuring Jon Bernthal will leave the streaming platform after a limited run.
October 26, 2026
AAA Issues New Fire Pit Safety GuidelinesThe organization provides recommendations for fire pit operation as seasonal usage increases across the country.
October 25, 2026
Home Improvement Costs Rise Sharply Through 2025Data shows a 76.1% increase in median renovation costs between 2015 and 2025 as homeowners stay in place.
October 21, 2026
Survey Highlights Homeowners' Fire Safety Knowledge GapsThe 2026 First Alert Safety Pulse survey identifies significant confusion among Americans regarding fire alarm maintenance.
October 20, 2026
Apple Expands Self-Service Repair to New DevicesThe company added the iPhone 18 Pro, Mac Studio, and Mac mini to its official repair program.
U.S. reporting spans DIY maintenance tips, plumbing and electrical safety, common home repair trends and the costs of household upkeep. Reporting reaches every state and the varied climates that dictate maintenance needs. Older homes face distinct structural challenges that require specific attention compared to modern builds. Seasonal shifts in weather remain the primary driver for maintenance needs across the country.