Simple Solutions for Common Plumbing Problems

July 10, 2024

Dealing with common plumbing issues? No worries, you can tackle most of them without professional help. A leaky faucet, for instance, is often the result of a faulty washer and can be easily fixed by you.

Drain clogging is another frequent problem. Regular cleaning, using a plunger, or a hand auger should solve it. However, persistent clogs might need professional attention.

Not confident in DIY fixes? Reach out to reliable plumbing services like Fergusons Plumbing. They offer comprehensive solutions for all your plumbing troubles – from minor leaks to major installations.

Clogged Drains and Toilets

Experiencing clogged drains and toilets in your house can be quite stressful, especially if left unattended for a long time.

• Using hot water: Boiling water has the potential to dissolve sticky substances like grease, hair, and food remains while clearing the drains.
• Cleaning with your fingers: Removing stuck substances such as hair manually is an effective method to start unclogging sinks.
• Applying a sink plunger: A sink plunger, especially with a smooth bottom surface, is highly useful to clear blockages.
• Checking the trap: If after the initial steps the drain still seems blocked, examine the trap – the curved pipe section beneath your sink.
• Use a drain snake: For challenging obstructions, it may be necessary to employ a flexible, metallic tool like a drain snake or auger.

Toilet clogs tend to require more specialized solutions. Let’s explore some practical ways:

• Tackling with toilet plunger: Toilets have their unique type of plunger. It creates a sealing effect around the drain hole when filled adequately with water.
• Pouring in hot water: If the blockage persists after using a plunger, try letting hot water sit in the toilet bowl for a few hours before attempting again.
• Finding help from toilet snake: Tough blockages might require use of a rubber-covered toilet snake similar to a regular drain snake but designed not to scratch your toilet’s porcelain finish.

In all instances, remember to approach each method gently and patiently to avoid causing damage to your pipes.

Fixing a Shower Leak

Experiencing a leaky shower can be frustrating and damaging if left unresolved. Understanding the root cause is essential in finding an effective solution.

Identifying the Problem

Shower leaks often arise from faulty hardware. Deteriorated seals, cracked pipes, or leaking shower heads are common culprits.

It’s crucial to observe your shower’s condition regularly to spot any sign of damage early. Watch out for unusual damp spots or constant dripping noises.

Detecting the Source

Identify the source of the leak next. If unsure, don’t hesitate to seek professional plumbing help. They’re equipped with tools to detect hidden leaks accurately.

Beyond visible signs of leakage, mold or mildew growth could indicate underlying water problems. Intrusive dampness may also suggest deeper issues needing prompt attention.

Solving the Leak

Once you’ve identified the origin of leakage, act accordingly. This might involve replacing damaged seals, tightening connections, or installing a new shower head.

For more complex problems such as broken pipes, consider hiring plumbing professionals. Their expertise ensures that all repairs are done correctly and safely.

Solving Low-Pressure Water Issues

There are various possible reasons why water pressure is low in your home. Don’t worry, though. There are ways to solve this common plumbing concern.

1. Check your pressure gauge. Start by hooking up the pressure gauge to an outside water spigot and turning on the water. Take note of the instant reading.
2. Ensure shutoff valves are fully open. These valves are typically near the water meter.
3. Contact your local water department. Ask for a pressure reading if your house is on city water. Ideal readings fall within 45 to 55 psi.
4. Consider installing a water pressure booster. If the pressure remains low, a booster can help, especially if you have a 3/4-in. or bigger copper or plastic water main
5. Examine your pressure-reducing valve (PRV). Most PRVs are set at 50 psi from the factory. For adjustments, there’s a screw on top. If it’s old, consider replacement.
6. Consult with professionals. The issue could be due to issues with the pressure from the street or faulty well pumps for those who get their water from private wells.

You can examine all these probable issues yourself before calling an expert plumber. However, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed.

Handling Loss of Hot Water

Experiencing a lack of hot water is a common plumbing issue. The problem could originate from your water heater’s power supply.

For an electric heater, inspect for a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. A power outage might be the cause.

A gas heater, on the other hand, won’t function without its pilot light. Make sure it’s shining brightly before proceeding.

This comprehensive table provides an easy reference guide to restore hot water in your home with minimal fuss.

Remember, loose electrical connections might also prevent the heater from functioning correctly. Always check for a secure connection.

Similarly, the tempering valve plays a vital role in determining water temperature. A malfunction could result in lower water temperature.

Lastly, but importantly, a steady gas supply is crucial for gas heaters. Inspect lines for leaks to ensure smooth operation.

How to Repair a Running Toilet

A running toilet is arguably one of the most frequent plumbing problems homeowners encounter.

What are the possible causes?

It can be due to a problem with the flapper, fill valve, overflow tube, or a fault in the tank ball.

How can I fix it?

To rectify this, try replacing the flapper and the fill valve initially.

What if it’s a fault in the overflow tube?

If it’s an issue with the overflow tube, adjust its height or replace if necessary.

What about a problem in the tank ball?

An issue in the tank ball would require you to clean it or consider a full replacement. This Old House offers an instructional video that might be beneficial.

Are there any other factors I should consider?

The age and overall condition of your toilet could influence its operation and maintenance needs.

What does professional help entail?

If DIY solutions aren’t effective, seeking professional help is wise. They have the requisite tools and skills for comprehensive solutions.

Tackling Water Heater Problems

A problematic water heater can be a source of stress. There are many signs that indicate a heater is on the verge of failing, one being visible corrosion or rust spots.

It is also essential to consider the type of water in your area. Hard water and well water can speed up the deterioration process, which may reduce the lifespan of your heater.

Another indication can be puddles of water near the heater. Usually, a minor leak precedes major water release. However, sudden flooding situations aren’t unheard of.

The professional expertise of plumbers allows them to gauge the lifetime of a heater accurately. For example, by examining the serial number they can find out when it was manufactured and how long the warranty lasts.

“Water heaters in the midwest last 8 – 10 years, period”

The expected lifespan may also vary depending on the brand and model of your water heater. It goes without saying that cheaper products often have a shorter shelf-life.

Your plumber would know these details as they consistently replace leaking heaters. Heed their advice if they warn about an impending failure; don’t let it turn into an emergency situation.

Fix It Yourself

You’ve successfully navigated through common plumbing problems and simple solutions for them. Remember, taking time to understand your home’s plumbing can save you money and stress.

However, if you find yourself facing a problem beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to call in professionals. You can easily find skilled plumbers such as those at Fergusons Plumbing. With the right approach, you can keep your plumbing in top shape. Here’s to hassle-free homeownership!