How to Fix 3 Common Plumbing Issues on Your Own
by Boris Dzhingarov on Nov 18, 2018
The plumbing system is one of those facilities in a home that we only think about when it starts to malfunction, but once something does go wrong, it usually creates a whole lot of problems for everybody. That’s why it’s a good idea to get your plumbing checked regularly before things actually break down. Nonetheless, there are ways to tackle minor plumbing issues on your own, or at least till the professionals get there!
Plunge the Clog Away
If you don’t have a plunger for the sink yet, it is time to get one because that’s going to be your number one weapon against clogged kitchen sinks. If a hefty amount of plunging with the plunger and poking with a plumber’s snake doesn’t do the trick, it’s time to try a drain cleaner liquid. Do keep in mind that chemical drain cleaners may damage the pipes and, therefore, always check the instructions on whether they are suitable for copper/iron/PVC pipes, whichever you have at home. A homemade drain cleaner, made out of vinegar and baking soda can also do the trick and is definitely a safer option than chemical cleaners, but it’s not as powerful. Similar steps can also be taken to successfully clear up a clogged toilet.
Replace the Flapper Valve to Address Running Toilets
It has been estimated that leaky faucets are one of the main reasons responsible for shooting up the water bill in most households, but compared to the hundreds of gallons of water that comes with running toilets lose every day, it’s almost insignificant. Fortunately, this is a very easy problem to solve, as long as it’s a faulty flapper valve that’s causing the problem. The flapper is the valve that controls the passage of water from the tank to the bowl and all you need to do is replace it. If that is not the issue, you will need to call in a professional Cranberry Twp plumber to find out what is actually causing the toilet to lose water.
Open Up the Jammed Garbage Disposal
It may seem intimidating, but more often than not, opening up the garbage disposal and cleaning the motor isn’t as complicated as one may think. However, before you open it, do try the reset button first to see if that doesn’t improve things. If opening and cleaning are still required, use the key that came with it or a ¼” Allen wrench. At times, the blades might be damaged beyond just cleaning and they may need to be replaced.
Sometimes, just a basic knowledge of plumbing isn’t enough, and you will need the assistance of a professional plumber to get things back in order. As mentioned earlier, it is important to get your plumbing system checked regularly, before they go out of service for good. More often than not, that leaky faucet or that frequently clogging toilet are signs that there might be more severe underlying issues in need of addressing.
Popular Articles
Three Places to Spend Money on the Exterior of Your Home
When you have the exterior of your home remodeled, you are investing, time, energy and convenience into the project and you want to make sure that...
96219 Views
Homemade Headboards-Make an Upholstered or Wooden Headboard
Homemade headboards can add a lot of personality to any bedroom. They can be coordinated with existing furniture and room decor or they can be the...
74536 Views
When to Use a Brush, Roller or Sponge Brush
Brushes are a good choice for painting trim and woodwork. They are also useful for cutting in the edges around the top and bottom edges and corners...
71862 Views
Creating a Cottage Kitchen with Bead Board
Kitchen decor can range from modern and bold to elegant and elaborate by using strategic kitchen pieces. One of the most popular decorating trends...
52976 Views
Gas Fireplace Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Follow these steps for diagnosing and troubleshooting Gas Fireplaces repairs. For the average DIYer, this may seem intimidating, depending on the...
30676 Views
Latest Articles
How Much Does It Cost To Take A Bath?
Plumbers know that a bath may seem like a relaxing luxury, but the real cost extends far beyond your water bill. The average soak uses 35 to 50...
on Apr 8, 2025
10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget
A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...
on Mar 25, 2025
Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas
Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...
on Mar 7, 2025
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
on Feb 18, 2025
Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan
When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...
on Jan 12, 2025
Featured Articles
What Type of Licensed Contractor Should You Hire?
on Feb 28, 2017
Hire Contractors / Estimates

Looking for a specialty project? There are many types of contractors available for your home improvement needs. Finding the right type of...
Sponsored Articles
Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth
on Feb 18, 2025
Real Estate / Finance

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...
Actions
Top Categories
- Garden / Landscaping / Patio — 264
- Kitchen / Bathrooms — 240
- Real Estate / Finance — 203
- Appliance / Repair — 186
- Interior Design / Decor — 184
- HVAC / Air Conditioning — 148
- Cleaning / Maintenance — 144
- Improvements / Remodeling — 131
- Plumbing / Basements — 118
- Floors / Tile / Hardwood — 116
- Doors / Garages — 113
- Safety / Security — 113
Articles Archive
More DIY Articles
How to Create a Pink Playroom for Your Princess
As your daughter moves from infancy to her toddler years, the desire to create a magical playroom for her is sure to take hold. Every little girl...
How to Protect Your Home from the Horrors of H2O
If you don’t live close to the water, you may believe that you are relatively safe from water damage to your home. However, this is not...
Remodeling Contractors Point of View: The Top Remodeling Do Nots
One of the best ways that you can improve your working relationship with your remodeling contractor is to try and understand where he is coming...
4 Ways to Keep Your Carpet in Tip-Top Shape
Let us face it: your carpet is more important than you think. After all, you step on your carpets every day. That is why you should make the effort...
Tools to Repack Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings carry the weight of a car, while at the same time ensuring that wheels run smoothly. All too often, they are neglected and...