As a homeowner, there are some plumbing issues you’ll be able to fix yourself with little to no trouble. These are five of the most common plumbing problems and how you can fix them without calling a professional.
Repair a Kitchen or Bathroom Faucet
This is a common problem that doesn’t require a lot of expertise. If your faucet starts leaking, you’ll first want to turn off the water supply by closing the valve under the sink. Then, remove the handle and the packing nut using an adjustable wrench. You can then replace the washers and reassemble the faucet.
Unclog a Bathtub or Shower Drain
There are a few ways you can go about unclogging your tub or shower drain. One is to use a plunger. Put the plunger over the drain and push and pull it until the clog is dislodged. Another way is to use a wire hanger. Straighten out the hanger and then make a small hook at the end. Insert the hanger into the drain and fish around until you feel the clog. Once you’ve found it, pull it out. You can also use baking soda and vinegar to break up the clog.
Fix a Leaky Toilet
A leaky toilet is another common problem that’s relatively easy to fix. You’ll first want to turn off the water supply by finding the shut-off valve and turning it clockwise. Once the water is off, flush the toilet to empty the tank. Then, remove the lid and look for the problem. Most often, it’s a faulty flapper or ballcock. You can replace these parts yourself.
Fix a Running Toilet
A running toilet is another common issue that’s easy to fix. The first thing you’ll want to do is check the flapper to see if it’s appropriately sealing the opening. If it’s not, adjust it or replace it. You may also need to adjust the water level in the tank. To do this, find the fill valve and turn it clockwise to lower the water level.
Fix a Clogged Toilet
If your toilet becomes clogged, there are a few things you can try before calling a plumber. The first thing is to use a plunger. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a plumbing snake. If neither of those works, you may need to call a plumber.
Water Heater Issues
If your water heater isn’t working as well as it used to or completely stopped working, there are several things you can do before calling a professional. First, check the power source and ensure the pilot light is lit (if your unit has one). If not, relight it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also check the thermostat to see if it needs to be adjusted. In some cases, sediment build-up can also be a problem. You’ll need to flush out the tank (again, according to the manufacturer’s instructions).
Other Small Plumbing Fixes You Can Do Yourself
There are a few other minor plumbing fixes you may be able to do yourself, depending on your skill level. These include fixing a dripping faucet, replacing a showerhead, and unclogging a slow drain. If you’re not confident in your ability to fix the problem, it’s always best to call a professional.
As a homeowner, there are some plumbing issues you’ll be able to fix yourself with little to no trouble. These are five of the most common plumbing problems and how you can fix them without calling a professional. With some knowledge and effort, you can save time and money by fixing these problems yourself.
