As homeowners, we all face our fair share of household problems, and one of them is plumbing issues. They can surface in different areas of a home’s plumbing system at the least expected time. When they do, it’s only fair that we equip ourselves with the knowledge to tackle the problem, even if it’s only a temporary fix before a professional plumber arrives. Suppose you’re looking for a reliable plumbing company to call in Portland and Vancouver; you can try Sarkinen Plumbing; they have a reputation of excellence in the area.
Now, let us take a close look at some of the practical ways to rectify a range of plumbing issues before help arrives.
Ways To Handle Common Household Plumbing Problems
- Running Toilet
A running toilet can be an eerie and wasteful occurrence, causing unease in the stillness of the night. To put an end to this ghostly water waster, try these DIY fixes before calling in the professionals
Check the Flapper Valve: Lift the lid off the toilet tank and inspect the flapper valve. If it’s warped or damaged, it may not be sealing properly, causing water to escape into the bowl. A quick replacement can do the trick.
Adjust the Water Level: The water level in the tank may be too high, leading to frequent overflow into the bowl. Adjust the float arm to lower the water level and prevent wasteful running.
Inspect the Fill Valve: A faulty fill valve can also contribute to a running toilet. If it’s malfunctioning, replacing it will help restore proper flushing and water flow.
Banish the Flapper Chain Snags: Sometimes, a chain that’s too long or caught on something can prevent the flapper from closing fully. Ensure the chain has enough slack and isn’t obstructed, allowing the flapper to seal tightly.
Seek Professional Help: If you’ve tried these DIY fixes and the toilet is still running, it’s time to call in the experts. A skilled plumber can diagnose and resolve the issue, saving you from further midnight ghost encounters.
- Clogged Drains
A clogged drain can turn your daily routine into a slow-motion disaster. Before reaching for harsh chemicals, try these natural and effective solutions:
Boiling Water Method: Start with the simplest approach by pouring boiling water down the drain. This can dislodge minor clogs caused by grease and soap residue.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar:
Mix half a cup of baking soda with half a cup of vinegar to create a natural drain cleaner. Pour the solution down the drain and cover it; let it fizz for about 30 minutes and follow up with hot water to wash away the clog.
Use your Trusty Plunger: For stubborn clogs, use a plunger to create a vacuum and dislodge the blockage. Remember to cover the overflow drain (if present) to ensure effective suction.
Snaking it Out: Invest in a plumbing snake, a flexible auger that can reach deeper clogs and clear them effectively. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Prevention is Key: Avoid future clogs by using drain strainers to catch debris. Also, refrain from pouring grease down the sink and periodically flush drains with hot water to prevent buildup.
- Leaky Faucets:
Leaky faucets, or dripping faucets, as some call them, can cause your home to waste more than 300 gallons of water annually. You can save yourself from wasting this much water with the following tips
Tighten Loose Handles: Often, a leaky faucet can be caused by loose handles. Use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten them and see if that resolves the issue.
Fix the O-rings: Some faucets have O-rings that can degrade and lead to leaks. Similar to the washer replacement, disassemble the faucet and replace any damaged O-rings. Check for Corroded Valve Seat: Use a specialized tool called a seat wrench to remove the valve seat and either clean or replace it.
Upgrade to a New Faucet: If your faucet is old and continually causing problems, consider investing in a new, high-quality faucet that’s less prone to leaks.
Low Water Pressure:
A weak trickle of water can be maddening, especially when you need a strong flow to take a quick bath or get some chores done. If you’re faced with this kind of plumbing problem, try these:
Inspect Aerator and Clean It: The faucet’s aerator can get clogged with mineral deposits, affecting water flow. Unscrew the aerator, clean it thoroughly, and reattach it to the faucet.
Check for Leaks: Inspect pipes and plumbing connections for leaks that might be causing water pressure loss. Repair any leaks you find.
Clear Mineral Buildup: If your showerhead is affected by low water pressure, it might have mineral buildup. Soak the showerhead in a mixture of vinegar and water to dissolve the deposits, then scrub it clean.
Examine Pressure Regulator: Your home may have a pressure regulator near the main water line. Adjusting it can potentially increase water pressure, but it’s best to consult a professional to avoid damaging the plumbing.
After trying all you can to rectify your plumbing problem and everything proves futile, you need to call a plumber. Also, when you’re faced with complex issues or can seem to navigate the problem, don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber.
