10 Most Common Plumbing Issues and How to Troubleshoot Them Before Calling a Plumber

Managing homeownership challenges is bound to be filled with surprises, and blocked pipes are one prevalent culprit. What you might want to possess in advance is possessing common sense remedies to a number of the old-timers’ problems, since the following addresses ten prevalent home plumbing challenges and solutions to grant you freedom from being a phone-calling addicted homeowner.

1: Combat Clogged Drains

Home Remedies to Fix Kitchen and Bath Clogs One of the most frustrating aspects of home living for most homeowners, perhaps no frustration is more irritating than a sink clog. From hair accumulating on tub drains to food particles in kitchen sinks, clogs will stop whatever needs doing in a matter of seconds. In nearly every case, though, clogs are merely a matter of accumulation that will be dissolved with a plunger in no time. For tougher clogs, vinegar and baking soda followed by hot water may be the answer. If that won’t work, try loosening the P-trap at the bottom of the sink and removing the clog manually. Catch any water with a bucket.

2. Faucet Repairs: Replacing Washers and O-rings for Leaking Faucets

A similar common complaint is a leaky faucet, also a huge water-waster and addition to your bill. It’s probably due to worn-out, dirty O-rings or washers. All it requires is some inexpensive, tiny parts to close the leak. Shut off the water supply to the faucet, disassemble it, and make a dash to a hardware store so that you buy the right replacement. With a screwdriver and a little persistence, it’s simple enough to fix this issue.

3. Toilet Problems: Fixing Leaking Toilets to Save Water

Leaking toilets are a chronic frustration that can spell water wasted. The culprit is typically a defective flapper, float, or fill valve. To fix the problem, remove the lid of the toilet tank and observe the parts while flushing. Replace the flapper if it refuses to close. Adjust if the float is too high. And if your fill valve does not work, it can be easily replaced. All these can save water wastage as well as your money.

4. Increasing Water Pressure:

Finding and Fixing Low Water Pressure Problems Low water pressure can make showering and washing dishes an aggravating experience. The problem can be due to a multitude of problems from mineral buildup in aerator, faucet that is almost closed, or even the water pipe. To test the aerator, take out the aerator from the faucet and wipe off mineral buildup. All of the water faucets must be completely open. If that won’t do it, perhaps something in the near future can be altered. 5. Showerhead Repairs:

Fix and Clean Leaky Showerheads A leaky showerhead is just as annoying as a leaky faucet. It is likely a clogged washer or mineral deposits. Disassemble the showerhead, clean it well, and replace any parts that are damaged. Soaking in vinegar dissolves mineral deposits.

6. Garbage Disposal Issues

Safe Disposal of the Jam and Restoration of Operation A clogged garbage disposal has the potential to render a kitchen unusable instantly. Most common jam caused by fibrous or hard food. Switch off the disposal prior to attempting to fix it. Rotate the flywheel located at the bottom of the disposal manually using a wrench in order to free the jam. If the jam does not ease, look for a reset button located at the bottom of the unit.

7. Prevention of Frozen Pipes and Thawing

Preventing Your Pipes from Freezing Frozen pipes are no joke, especially in foul weather. The water inside freezes and the pipes burst, creating enormous water damage. To prevent pipes from freezing, insulate exposed pipes and allow a dripping faucet to drip slowly in cold weather. If a pipe has frozen, thaw it gradually using a heating pad or a hair dryer. Never, ever use fire.

8. Gurgling Toilet Clues

Diagnosis and Repair of Vent and Drain Line Problems Gurgling toilet can be a sign that something is amiss in vent pipe or main drain line clog.

Vent pipe is responsible for supplying air in the plumbing system, and thus there will be good drainage. Ensure there is no clogging in the vent pipe like leaves or debris. If still gurgling after inspection, then it could be an issue that should be dealt with by experts.

9. Water Heater Maintenance:

Preventing Sediment Depositions and Fixing Common Issues Water heater issues range from no hot water to leaks and unusual sounds. Sediment depositions will cause heating element failure, and leaks indicate corrosion or a faulty pressure relief valve. Flushing the water heater periodically will prevent sediment depositions. Leaks or unusual sounds must be repaired by your calling a plumber.

10. Sewer Line Backup Basics:

Symptom Detection and Consulting an Expert Lastly, sewer line backups are dangerous and filthy to repair. Backups are generally due to root-clogged pipes, broken pipes, or blockages. Symptoms that can be watched out for a sewer line backup include draining drains, gurgling, and sewer smells. An expert should be consulted for sewer line issues to avoid further damage and disease.

Conclusion

Armed with this knowledge of common plumbing issues and attempting the suggested repairs, you will be able to do most minor issues yourself.

For more chronic or more severe issues, however, a professional plumber will need to be called at all times. Routine maintenance of your plumbing system will prevent many of these issues from arising and guarantee you a successful and problem-free home.