A broken or malfunctioning plumbing system can cause stress, frustration, and even property damage. For this reason, many people choose to install their own plumbing fixtures and appliances rather than relying on a professional plumber. However, even an experienced DIYer cannot hope to keep up with all the different parts and tools of the plumbing trade. Fortunately, there are some basic tips and tricks for common plumbing problems that can be applied by anyone with a basic understanding of plumbing. These tricks are not replacements for proper training and knowledge, but they can help save time in tricky situations and prevent costly emergency calls to the plumber in the first place.- Read more...
When you have a clogged pipe, it means that water is backing up. There are two primary reasons for this: (1) a build-up of debris in the pipe, which is known as a root clog; or (2) a faulty washer that is supposed to trap dirt (and other materials) in the pipe and prevent it from moving further. Fortunately, the first scenario can be fixed with a simple pipe cleaning device. The second scenario is more complicated, but there are a few things you can do around the house that will prevent it from happening again in the future.- Read more...
Hair and other natural fibers are a common source of clogged pipes. If you see a lot of hair in your sink or other plumbing fixtures, this is a sign that you need to invest in a trap cleaning brush and a snake. These tools can help you clean out the traps in your sink and other fixtures, preventing hair and other debris from clogging up your pipes again and again.- Read more...
If you have an old water main, it can be a common source of plumbing problems. If the water pressure is low or you notice a significant drop in water pressure, this could be a sign that your main is damaged. In this case, you will need to call a plumber to dig up your main and replace it with a new one. If the water pressure is low because of a faulty water meter, you can usually fix the problem by installing a new meter. If the water pressure is low even before you enter your property, there could be a problem with your water main.- Read more...
If you have a frozen pipe, you will probably notice that it is cold in the area where the pipe is located, making it look like the problem is in that one place. In reality, though, there could be a frozen pipe anywhere in the house. You can usually tell if a pipe is frozen by feeling the pipe. If it is frozen, it will feel like a metal rod or a piece of ice. If your property has a sprinkler system, frozen pipes can be difficult to fix because frozen water expands. This can cause pipes to break.- Read more...
Even if you aren't interested in plumbing, basic tips for common plumbing problems can help you avoid costly repair bills and keep your home healthy and clean. If you have a clogged toilet or a broken toilet handle, for example, you can use the plunger trick to clear the clog (and save a trip to the store). You can also prevent frozen pipes in your home by keeping the heating turned on during the winter months and by making sure your home is insulated properly. Finally, you can avoid clogs in your pipes by not putting items like paper towels and diapers in your toilet (thank you, bacteria!).