If the power goes out in just part of your house, the problem is probably in your circuit breaker or fuse box. (Homes have one or the other, usually located at the back of the house, in the utility area, or in the basement.) A circuit breaker (shown) has a series of switches, while a fuse box has a collection of fuses that look like glass bottle caps. If your circuit breaker is “tripped,” one of the switches will be between the on and off positions. Press it all the way to the off position, then turn it back on. If you have a fuse box, check to see if a fuse is blown. (You’ll know because the glass will look cloudy.) If so, unscrew it and take it to a hardware store, where you can buy a replacement. If you feel heat coming from a circuit breaker or a fuse box, call an electrician.
Pros Charge: $65 to $100.
DIY Cost: None, or $1.25 (for a new fuse).