Household plumbing issues are inevitable. Whether it is a leaking faucet, clogged pipe, or a running toilet, these issues can occur at the most inconvenient times. But do not worry! This blog post will provide practical answers to everyday plumbing situations that all homeowners may face. Let us dive deep into the world of pipes, water, and pressure.
Facing Common Leaks
Leaks are among the most prevalent plumbing issues households face. Most frequently, they occur in your faucets or under your sinks. Find out what kind of leak you are dealing with by first identifying its source before thinking about fixing it. Knowing exactly where that pesky leak is coming from will save time and effort in the long run. By following industry tips and suggestions from sources like FergusonsAUS on Twitter, household leaks can be handled efficiently.
Preventing Pipe Blockages
Preventing pipe blockages is easier than unclogging pipes. Avoid flushing items down the toilet that do not degrade easily like baby wipes, sanitary products or paper towels. The same rule applies to your sink; consider installing mesh filters over drains in sinks and showers to prevent soap debris and hair from causing blockages.
unclogging Toilets
When faced with a clogged toilet, use a plunger as your first line of defense. If this does not work, a plumber’s snake or a closet auger may get the job done. If all fails, it might be time to call in a professional plumber to resolve this issue.
Dripping Faucets Repairs
Dripping faucets may seem like minor irritations but they can eventually lead to larger problems such as a significant increase in water bills or damage to your home. If you are handy, try replacing the worn-out parts of the faucet like washers, seals or valves. But if this sounds intimidating, professional help may be required.
Routine Sump Pump Checks
Regularly checking sump pumps can save you a great amount of trouble in the future. Ensure that it is working well by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. The pump should quickly turn on, discharge the water and turn off smoothly. If this does not happen, professional help may be needed.
Fixing Running Toilets
To fix a running toilet, first determine if there is enough water in the tank – too much or too little can cause issues. Check for worn out flappers as well; replacing this part often solves the problem. Still not fixed? It might be time to call a professional plumber.
Handling Low Water Pressure
When dealing with low water pressure issues, first check if it affects both hot and cold water. If it only impacts one type, then your heater could be the culprit. However, if both are affected then you may need to inspect your aerators or call in an expert for extensive pipe-related problems.
Maintaining Well Pumps
Maintain your well pumps regularly. If your pump starts acting up, remember that self-diagnosis and fixing can lead to more severe problems. This task would be best left up to certified professionals who have experience with these systems.
Water Heater Troubles
If your water isn’t heating properly, check the thermostat setting on your heater first before diagnosing it as a plumbing issue. The problem could also lie with a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Finally, if none of these seem to be the issue, calling in a professional plumber might be the best course of action.
Garbage Disposal Hitches
If your garbage disposal isn’t working, first determine whether or not it is receiving power, as often it could be a simple electrical issue. Check if something is jamming its mechanism- a safe way to do this is to use an Allen wrench to manually apply torque at the base of your disposal unit. If this doesn’t solve the issue, it could warrant a replacement.
Clearing Slow Drains
A plunger can usually clear slow drains – but if there are multiple drains running slow, you could be dealing with a sewer system issue. Try using eco-friendly solutions like a drain snake or hand augurs before resorting to chemical drain cleaners. However, do not hesitate to call for professional help if necessary.
Frozen Pipe Issues
If your pipes have frozen, safely try using a hair dryer or heat lamp to thaw out the pipe. Remember – do not use an open flame! However this is only a temporary solution. For prevention in future and to resolve current issues it would be best to enlist the help of a professional.
Leaking Hose Bibbs Remedies
As winter ends many homeowners find their hose bibbs leaking due to harsh nature of freezing weather on pipes. In some cases replacing parts can fix this problem but remember that sometimes replacement would be more suitable than repair.
Parting Thoughts
No matter how small or large your plumbing issue may seem, remember that turning the problem into a DIY project isn’t always the best decision. There are trustworthy professionals ready and willing to help you avoid potential costly mistakes or accidents. More importantly, they can also perform regular maintenance to prevent issues from arising in the first place.