No matter whether you’re a new homeowner or you’ve been in your home for years, plumbing issues can be a serious hassle. Many people don’t know what to do if they experience plumbing problems, especially when it comes to tackling issues independently.
If you’re a handy homeowner who wants to tackle plumbing problems on their own, this manual is for you. Here’s an overview of common plumbing issues and how to fix them.
Before doing any repair work, make sure that you take note of the safety precautions and follow all the instructions from your equipment manuals. Have the right tools on hand, and make sure you know why you’re using each one.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners encounter. The best bet for fixing this issue yourself is to use a plunger. Place the plunger over the clogged drain and pump it up and down until the clog is released. Don’t forget to repeat the process a few times until the water runs freely.
If a plunger doesn’t work, you may need a pipe snake or drain auger. A pipe snake is a long, coiled wire that’s inserted into the clogged pipe. You can purchase a pipe snake or auger from the hardware store.
Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet is another annoying plumbing issue that many homeowners deal with. If you’ve noticed that your faucet is leaking, it’s a good idea to call a professional for assistance. However, an experienced DIYer can attempt this repair on their own.
To fix a leaky faucet, you will need to replace the O-ring. Start by turning off the water and removing the handle. Taking the assembly apart will allow you to locate the actual O-ring to be replaced. If you have a worn-out O-ring, you can usually find the replacement part at your local hardware store.
Once you have the parts in hand, you can simply disassemble the faucet and replace the O-ring. After you put every back together, you can turn on the water and test your faucet.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure ruins many showers and can makes it hard to get the job done when you’re washing your hands. If you don’t want to take a shower in a trickle, then you’ll need to fix the issue as soon as possible.
First, you’ll want to check the aerator. The aerator is the screen located at the end of your faucet. In some cases, the aerator may be clogged due to sediment buildup. Make sure to unscrew the aerator and then take a look inside. If the aerator has a lot of sediment and minerals, you can use a brush to clean it off. Once you’ve cleaned the aerator, you can re-attach it and test the pressure.
If the issue isn’t resolved, then you’ll need to check the shutoff valves. If the valves are open, then turn them off and then back on. If that doesn’t do the trick, then you can try to adjust the pressure or check for any clogged pipes that might be reducing the pressure.
Tools and Materials to Have on Hand
- Plunger
- Pipe Snake
- Drain Auger
- O-ring
- Screwdriver
Conclusion
By following the tips and advice above, you should be able to tackle the most common plumbing issues around your home. Keep in mind, however, that some plumbing problems may require more than DIY troubleshooting. In any case, use caution and make sure you understand these repair instructions before attempting to fix a plumbing issue by yourself.