Plumbing issues are not only messy, but can be also stressful. You cannot ignore them or just wait them out. They need to be fixed quickly. As such, knowing how to fix common plumbing issues such as backups, a clogged drain line, clogged sewers, or leaking pipes can be a lifesaver. This article will walk you through how to deal with common plumbing problems that will save you a lot of pain and cash.
Understand what you can handle and what you can’t
First things first, before you embark on any DIY plumbing project, you need to be sure you can handle the repairs. Plumbing problems you can fix by yourself include:
- Common toilet issues such as the toilet not flushing properly.
- Jammed garbage disposal
- Clearing clogged drains
- Handling the low water pressure problems
- Fixing a leaking faucet
Though the basic plumbing projects are often straightforward, you may stumble upon some surprises especially in older homes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from All Service Plumbing Drain & Hydro-Jet professionals when you deem it necessary. Else, you might turn a simple plumbing repair into thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment replacement.
Have The Right Tools
They normally say, a man is as good as the tools he uses. With that said, having the right plumbing repair tools can mean the difference between successful repairs and a total mess. On the brighter side, basic plumbing repairs do not require expensive tools. Besides the regular tools such as specific replacement parts and screwdrivers, here is some tool you are likely to need for your DIY project.
- A Drain snake: One of the most common plumbing issues that arise is clogged drains. A drain snake is simply a long, flexible, metal cable that has a hand-powered crank or even electric powered to clear clogged lines. However, if you have deep clogs, you might need to hire professional plumbers.
- A basin wrench: This will come handy when replacing faucets. It enables you to unscrew nuts from various angles thanks to its adjustable head.
- A Seat wrench: It is used to replace sink faucets and some types of bathtubs.
- Water meter key: It will help you shut off the main water supply in case of leakages to avoid water damage.
- A plunger: One of the least expensive ways to unclog sinks and toilet basins by applying air pressure.
- The plumber’s putty: It effectively air-dries without sticking on your fingers. As such, you can easily apply it with your bare hands to seal leaking joints.
- Teflon tape: This is another great tool that facilitates leak-proof pipe fittings when wrapped around the pipe threads.
Turn Off the Water Supply
This can effectively help you work faster and also avoid further damage caused by flooding. Most home plumbing systems use easy-to-access compression valves or gate valves that can be turned off by hand. In case you can’t access or find a fixture’s shut-off valve, shut off the main water supply. Now you can go ahead a fix whatever needs to be fixed.
The Wrap-up
Plumbing issues are usually such a pain because they often crop up when you least expect it. Moreover, you can’t wait them out because the situation will only get worse. The above tips will help you get your plumbing emergency under control. However, if you are not sure of what you are doing, or you do not have the right tools, it is time to call the professionals to avoid aggravating the situation.
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