Plumbing issues are never pleasant, especially if you’re not a plumber. For the occasional issue, you may be able to find a simple resolution without having to call a plumber (even if they insist they always appreciate a call so they can avoid another call later on).
For the more serious plumbing problems, a plumber may have been a better choice in the first place.
We’re taking a look at how to avoid plumbing problems and providing some solutions to ease the frustration of a clogged drain or a clogged toilet.
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Unclogging a Sink or Shower Drain
To begin, use a plunger to loosen and remove the clog. Start by pouring a large pot of boiling hot water down the sink or shower drain to relieve the clog.
If that doesn’t work, you can use a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and boiling hot water to make a bubbling mixture to clear the clog. Put on some protective gloves, pour the mixture down the drain, wait 10 minutes, and then rinse with boiling hot water to finish.
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Detecting and Replacing Leaky Faucets
Turn on the water and check for a steady stream and determine if the water is hot or cold. If the faucet is leaking, use a wrench to loosen the valve and replace the washer, or replace the entire cartridge if the washer is corroded or worn out. After replacing the washer or cartridge, use the plumber’s tape to ensure a tight, watertight seal.
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Ensuring Proper Toilet Flush Functionality
The build-up of debris, such as debris from cleaning the toilet, may be blocking the passage of water. Tank cleaning tablets, as well as regular maintenance, can help fix this common problem. If the tank is properly maintained, the next step might be trying a new flush valve, flapper, or overflow tube.
It’s also recommended to check the water level in the tank and make sure that it is set to the proper level. In some cases, the flushing problems may be caused by air-volume issues related to the drainage system.
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Discolored Water
Check if the discoloration is coming from all the faucets in the home since it could be caused by older pipes. If that is the case, flushing the water lines may help remove any built-up particles causing discoloration. If it’s just coming from one faucet, check if the aerator is clogged.
Discolored water from faucet is caused by aerators and can block the pipe with sediment and lime buildup. Cleaning the aerator with a vinegar solution can often restore normal water flow.
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Dealing With Frozen Pipes and Water Lines
Start by locating the frozen pipes if you can, and try to heat the frozen pipes with a hair dryer or portable heater. Moving warm air along the pipe should help thaw and melt any ice that has formed.
Make sure not to leave the heater too close to the pipe, which can damage the pipes. If you can’t locate the pipes, you can try opening cabinets under sinks or heating the walls near the pipes.
Tackling Plumbing Problems With These Tips
To summarize, tackling plumbing problems yourself can save you time and money. Some of the most common problems can be solved with simple DIY fixes, including unstopping a drain, fixing a leaky faucet, or adjusting the water pressure. For bigger jobs or to get expert tips and advice, consult a trained plumber. Start tackling your plumbing problems today – you’ll be glad you did.
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