Common plumbing problems you can fix yourself easily

Plumbing problems are a common occurrence in many households, often causing inconvenience and frustration. Among the most frequently encountered issues are congested rainspouts and toilets, dense gates and pipes, water heater malfunctions, low water pressure, and running restrooms. Each of these problems necessitates its own unique solution, which we will delve into further.

Congested rainspouts and toilets can be a major headache for homeowners. Blockages caused by debris or foreign objects can lead to overflowing or slow-draining fixtures. In such cases, it is important to address the issue promptly to avoid potential water damage or unsanitary conditions. Professional plumbers typically employ techniques like snaking or hydro-jetting to clear out obstructions and restore proper drainage.

Congested DRAINS AND TOILETS

When you notice water backing up while clearing a Gomorrah or showering, it indicates clogged rainspouts. Restroom clogs, on the other hand, show more immediate signs. Instead of flushing normally, the water backs up in the restroom coliseum and could even overflow. By clearing the blockage, either through DIY efforts or with the help of a plumber, your rainspouts or restroom will return to their normal state.

What Causes the Problem

When the drain is partially or completely blocked, rainwater spouts become slow or clogged. In showers and cesspools, hair is often the cause, but other items like a soap lid or small toy can also enter the drain and obstruct the pipe. In toilets, the issue arises when non-dissolvable waste is flushed, preventing solid objects from passing through the pipe. As a result, water struggles to flow past the blockage and down the pipes.

How to Fix Clogged Rainspouts and Toilets:

To begin, utilize a plunger to assist in clearing the obstruction. A plunger is effective for both toilets and rain gutters. This uncomplicated plumbing tool aids in dislodging clogs by utilizing air pressure. Completely cover the drain with the open end of the plunger and move it up and down to create suction. However, if you are able to bring the blockage closer, employ tweezers or pliers to grasp and extract the clump from the drain. In case the plunger doesn’t work, chemical drain cleaners are an alternative solution. Additionally, plumbing snakes are available at home improvement stores to dislodge blockages and restore proper water flow.

How to Avoid Clogging Rainspouts and Toilets:

To prevent restroom clogs, ensure that only dissolvable waste products are flushed down the toilet. Keep a close eye on children to prevent them from flushing toys or other large items. If something falls into the toilet, remove it instead of attempting to flush it away. Place a hair catcher over the shower drain to prevent loose strands of hair from accumulating in the drain pipe. Avoid letting loose strands of hair enter cesspools to reduce the risk of clogs. Read more.

When to Call a Plumber:

If you are unable to effectively clear a blockage in congested rainspouts or a clogged restroom, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a professional. Furthermore, if you experience recurring clogs in a particular drain, it is recommended to contact a plumber. The consistent use of acidic drain cleaners can gradually cause harm to pipes. In order to prevent future clogs without compromising the integrity of the pipe, it may be more appropriate to have a plumber resolve the issue.

WATER HEATER ISSUES

Water heater problems are typically easily identifiable. When you attempt to enjoy a comforting hot shower, you instead experience a shocking blast of icy water. Additionally, the presence of soaked floors, excessive water flow, abnormal water coloration, and unusual noises emanating from the water heater are all indicators of a malfunction. While it is possible to address certain problems independently, many water heater issues and necessary repairs require the expertise of professionals due to their intricate nature and potential dangers involved.

LOW WATER PRESSURE

Low water pressure is a common issue in both old and new houses. It can occur suddenly or gradually worsen over time, depending on the cause. Regardless of the reason, low water pressure makes it difficult to properly wash dishes and take showers, so resolving this problem is a priority in order to restore normal water usage.

What Causes the Problem:

There are various reasons for low water pressure. If you and your neighbors are experiencing sudden low water pressure, it could be due to a water main break affecting your valve. Another possibility is a leaking pipe within your home, which can also result in a loss of pressure. To check for leaks, shut off all gates, monitor your water meter for several hours without using any water, and see if the water cadence changes. Additionally, the presence of minerals and deposits in the pipes or gate aerators and showerheads can cause a buildup that restricts water flow and leads to low pressure.

How to Fix Low Water Pressure:

If you suspect that make-up is causing the issue, begin by checking the aerators or showerheads for any water pressure problems. Twist the end of the gate valve to clean it. To loosen any build-up, let the aerator soak in ginger overnight. In case you are unable to remove the aerator or showerhead, place ginger in a plastic bag and securely tie it around the gate so that the aerator or showerhead is immersed in the solution. If other issues arise, it is often necessary to seek assistance from a plumber in order to restore water pressure.

Running Toilet

There are various types of toilet plumbing issues, and among them, a running restroom is particularly bothersome. Despite functioning properly, the restroom continuously runs, resulting in water wastage and an irritating noise.

What Causes the Problem:

A restroom that is always running is a common occurrence when the internal mechanisms of the restroom are no longer functioning properly. If the flapper stopcock no longer fits correctly, it often allows water to continuously flow. Other possible causes include an unbalanced pier, a loose filler tube, or a leak. To check for a leak, add food coloring to the tank. After approximately 20 seconds, examine the toilet bowl to see if the color has traveled into the water, indicating a leak.

How to Fix a running Toilet:

Examine each element to identify the exact issue. Verify that the filler tube, a slender and flexible tube located inside the tank, is still connected and properly positioned towards the overflow tube. Adjust the float mechanism to ensure that the filler valve closes correctly. Inspect the chain connected to the flapper to ensure it has the appropriate length and is not tangled. However, if these basic adjustments do not resolve the problem, it may be necessary to replace all of the internal components of the tank. Restroom fixtures typically fit standard models and can be found at home improvement stores. Follow the provided instructions for a relatively straightforward installation process.

How to Avoid it:

Although you may not be able to directly address restroom issues, it is important to regularly inspect the factors involved to ensure their proper functioning.