Plumbing problems can range from annoying to catastrophic, but no matter what the issue is, proper and timely repair is essential. Common plumbing issues include clogged drains, burst pipes, dripping faucets, low water pressure, and running toilets. Fortunately, most of these issues have simple solutions that homeowners can take to fix them without having to call a plumber. Here are some of the most common plumbing problems and their solutions:
Clogged Drains
To unclog your drain, try using a plunger or chemical drain cleaner, depending on what is causing the clog. If that doesn’t work, you may need to snake the drain or call a professional plumber.
Drains can become clogged with debris such as food particles, hair, soap scum and more. To avoid drain clogs, it is important to practice good habits such as regularly running hot water down drains after use, using a strainer in sinks to catch larger items and avoiding pouring grease down the drain. Regularly cleaning drains with a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar can also help prevent buildup that leads to clogs. If you do experience a stubborn clog, using a plunger or chemical cleaner may be necessary.
Burst Pipes
Burst pipes can cause major damage and flooding if they aren’t fixed quickly. If you have a burst pipe, you should turn off the water supply immediately and call a plumber right away. They will be able to inspect the pipe and repair it quickly before more damage is done.
Pipe bursts are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. Water pressure buildup in pipes can cause them to burst, which leads to flooding and expensive repairs. To prevent pipe bursts, it’s important to check the water pressure regularly and make sure it is within a safe range (generally 40-80 PSI). If the pressure is too high, you can install a pressure reducing valve on your main water line. Additionally, regular maintenance of your home’s plumbing system can help identify potential problems before they become more serious.
It’s also important to take steps to address frozen pipes before winter arrives as these could lead to pipe bursts as well. Make sure all exposed pipes are insulated properly with foam insulation sleeves or wraps; additionally, you can also let a faucet drip slightly when temperatures dip below freezing. Lastly, make sure to shut off the main water valve if your pipes do freeze and contact a professional plumbing service for repairs.
Dripping Faucets
Dripping faucets are often caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring that needs to be replaced. To replace them, first shut off the water supply and then remove the handle of your faucet to get access to the washer or O-ring. Once you have the part, take it to a hardware store to find the right replacement and install it.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is often caused by sediment buildup in your pipes or an issue with your main water line. To improve your water pressure, you can try using a specialty cleaning solution or flushing your pipes. If that doesn’t work, you may need to call a plumber for assistance.
Running Toilets
Running toilets are usually caused by problems with the flush valve or fill valve. To fix this issue yourself, first shut off the water supply and then remove the tank lid. Inspect both valves and if they are faulty, replace them with new parts from a hardware store. Once you have the new parts, install them according to the instructions. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it may be a good idea to call a professional plumber.
By taking the time to understand common plumbing problems and learning some basic DIY solutions, you can save yourself time and money in the long run. However, if you don’t feel confident tackling the issue yourself or need help with more complex plumbing issues, it is always best to call a professional plumber for assistance. They will have all of the right tools and knowledge needed to get your plumbing back up and running quickly and safely.
Plumbing Services
Professional plumbers like Tweedy Plumbing are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of plumbing repair and maintenance. They have access to specialized tools and equipment that can help diagnose and fix even the most complex plumbing issues quickly, safely, and correctly. In addition, they understand local building codes, so you don’t have to worry about running into any legal issues with your repairs.
By hiring a professional plumber for your plumbing projects, you can rest assured knowing that the job is being done right the first time. Professional plumbers also offer advice on how to maintain your plumbing system so you won’t run into any problems in the future.
