You never know when a plumbing issue will happen! Some require professional attention, while others can be fixed with a bit of DIY effort. DIY plumbing repairs save you money and give you the satisfaction of maintaining your home. However, you should know when to call a professional plumber. In this post, we’ll share five essential tips to help you tackle common plumbing repairs!
Tip #1: Fixing Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. If left unchecked, a small leak can lead to extensive water damage. Fortunately, fixing leaky pipes is fairly straightforward with professional plumbing services, ensuring long-lasting solutions and preventing further damage to your home.
Step 1: Locate the leak. Before starting any repair, identify the source of the leak. If the leak is visible, it’s easy to spot. For hidden leaks, turn off the water supply and inspect the affected area. Check under sinks, around joints, and along the pipe for moisture.
Step 2: Turn off the water supply. Before making any repairs, always turn off the water supply to avoid further damage. This is typically done using the main shutoff valve, which is often located near the water meter. Make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.
Step 3: Apply a pipe repair clamp or epoxy putty. If the leak is small and located at a joint, use a pipe repair clamp or epoxy putty as a temporary fix. For larger leaks or cracks, you may need to replace the section of pipe entirely. Always ensure that the surface is dry before applying the repair material.
Step 4: Call a Professional to Replace the damaged pipe (if necessary). If a temporary fix doesn’t work, it’s time to replace the damaged section of pipe. A plumber can use a pipe cutter to remove the damaged section and adhesive to put a new one in its place.
Tip #2: Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet can be frustrating, especially because it increases your water bills. Fortunately, fixing it is often a quick and easy task. If you’re experiencing ongoing toilet issues, it might be time to consider a professional shower and toilet installation to upgrade your bathroom with efficient, high-quality fixtures.
Step 1: Identify the cause. The most common causes of a running toilet are a faulty flapper valve, fill valve, or flush valve. Remove the toilet tank lid and check the flapper valve to ensure it is sealing properly.
Step 2: Adjust the chain or replace the flapper. If the chain attached to the flapper is too long or too short, the valve remains open. Adjust the chain to ensure the flapper closes properly. If the flapper is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Step 3: Check the fill valve. If adjusting the flapper doesn’t work, inspect the fill valve for debris or damage. A clogged fill valve can prevent the tank from filling properly. Clean or replace the fill valve if necessary.
Tip #3: Unclogging Drains
Clogged drains are a plumbing problem that can happen in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry areas. If you’re dealing with a slow drain in your kitchen, your kitchen sink garburator could be a contributing factor. Here’s how you can effectively unclog a drain without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Step 1: Use a plunger. A plunger is the best way to unclog a drain. For a sink, make sure to block the overflow hole with a wet cloth before plunging. For a toilet, make sure the plunger creates a strong seal and then push and pull vigorously.
Step 2: Use a drain snake. If plunging doesn’t clear the clog, try using a drain snake. This flexible tool can reach deep into the drain to break up or pull out the clog. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it to dislodge the blockage.
Step 3: Try a natural drain cleaner. For more stubborn clogs, use a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar. Pour the baking soda into the drain followed by vinegar, and let it sit for 15 minutes before flushing it with hot water.
Step 4: Avoid chemical drain cleaners. Commercial chemical drain cleaners may seem convenient, but they can damage your pipes and the environment. Stick to natural methods like plunging and using a drain snake.
Tip #4: Fixing a Leaky Faucet
A leaky faucet is a nuisance that wastes water over time. Fortunately, it’s a repair that most homeowners can handle themselves.
Step 1: Turn off the water supply. Before beginning any repair, always turn off the water supply to avoid unnecessary water flow.
Step 2: Disassemble the faucet. Using a wrench or screwdriver, carefully disassemble the faucet handle to expose the inner components. You may need to remove a decorative cap to access the screws.
Step 3: Replace the damaged washer. The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer. Inspect the washer and replace it if it’s damaged or deteriorated. You can find replacement washers at most hardware stores.
Step 4: Reassemble and test. Once you’ve replaced the washer, reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on. Test the faucet to ensure that the leak has stopped.
Tip #5: Maintaining Plumbing System Health
To avoid future plumbing issues, regular maintenance is key. Here are some tips for keeping your plumbing system in top condition.
- Regularly inspect pipes for leaks, cracks, or signs of wear.
- Clean your drains periodically to prevent clogs from forming.
- Check for water pressure issues and make adjustments as needed to prevent pipe damage.
- Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
Call a Professional for Serious Plumbing Issues
While DIY plumbing repairs can save you time and money, sometimes, you need to call a professional plumber. If you’re facing a complex issue or one that involves major pipework, it’s always better to consult a licensed plumber to avoid the costs of additional repairs.
Need plumbing help in Winnipeg? Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a more complicated plumbing issue, Lynn’s Plumbing Heating & Cooling is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or get a free estimate!
