You don’t have to call a plumber whenever a faucet starts dripping in your home. Many issues can be repaired with basic tools in just a few easy steps. We’ll break down some of the easiest plumbing jobs so that the next time you find a leak, you can save money by taking care of it yourself. Check out these four common plumbing issues you can fix yourself.
Common Plumbing Issues: Clear a Clogged Drain
When a sink or shower drain is clogged, and before you reach for the liquid drain cleaner, try using a plunger first. Put water in the sink and place the plunger over the drain opening. Verify there is an airtight seal by pushing down on the handle and plunging several times. If that doesn’t dislodge the clog, try boiling water or combining baking soda and vinegar to break up the material in the drain. If all else fails, use a drain snake to clear the clog manually.
Fix a Leaky Faucet
A leaky faucet may seem like a minor issue, but it can drive the water bill up if neglected. Luckily, leaking faucets are often easy to repair. Start by shutting off the water supply and removing the handle. You’ll see a nut holding the stem in place; loosen it with a wrench and pull it out. Check to make sure the rubber o-rings are intact, and replace them if necessary. Put the faucet assembly back together and turn on your water supply to test the faucet.
Common Plumbing Issues: The Toilet Won’t Stop Filling
If your toilet is running continuously, there’s usually an issue with the flapper valve in the tank. To fix it, shut off the water supply and flush the toilet. Locate the flapper valve in the tank and adjust the chain that connects it to the handle so there’s a tight seal when you push down on it. If your valve looks worn out or cracked, replace it with a new one.
Descale the Water Heater
Hard water can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, and it’s important to descale your water heater at least once a year. Start by turning off the power to the unit and draining the water in the tank. Remove the sediment from the bottom of the tank. When you’ve finished, turn the power on and fill the tank to ensure no more issues.
The next time a plumbing issue arises, don’t panic. With some basic tools and know-how, you can fix a few of the common problems yourself. Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to tackle minor plumbing issues that come your way.
Checkpoint Home Inspections offers inspections to customers near the North Coast of Oregon. Contact us to request an appointment for our services.