Have your faucets suddenly started leaking uncontrollably? Or pipes suddenly start leaking? Not all problems require professional help to fix. Knowing some DIY fixes can save you money on repairs and allow you to handle plumbing issues as soon as they occur. Furthermore, when you familiarise yourself with the plumbing system, it is easier for you to detect problems when they happen. Here are six DIY fixes you can do when you have plumbing problems at home. Let’s get right into it!
Fix Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets can cause serious water damage if left unchecked. Before you begin the repair, turn off the water supply using the valves under the sink. This prevents flooding during repair and allows you to work efficiently. Remove the faucet handle and loosen the packing nut.
Remove the stem and inspect it for worn washers, O-rings, and seals. Replace as needed and ensure you use new ones coated in plumbing grease. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on. Check for leaks and drips, then tighten loose parts if needed.
Unclog Drains
Drawings get clogged when hair, dirt, and buildup aren’t cleaned. When these become too much, they block the drain and slow it down the drain. Fill the sink or tub with enough water to cover the plunger bell. Create a strong seal around the drain and plunge hard using an up-and-down motion.
The suction should dislodge the clog, but if it fails, pour a half-cup of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar into the drain. Leave for 15 to 30 minutes and then flush with hot water. Alternatively, you can use a drain snake for deeper clogs. Insert the drain snake into the drain and crank it to break up the blockage. Remove the debris and pour hot water down the drain to clear any remaining residue and test the drain flow.
Repair Running Toilets
To repair running toilets, the first thing you should do is turn off the water supply. Flush the tank and remove the tank lid to check the flapper chain for proper length. Unhook and replace the flapper if it’s not fully sealed or if it’s warped.
Replace or adjust the full valve float by bending the float arm down, or install a new one. This stops overfilling and stops the running toilet. Now reconnect everything and turn the water on. Listen for silence in the tank after flushing to check for signs of phantom flushing. This DIY fix solves phantom flushes caused by poor seals.
Replace Sink Sprayers
To replace sink sprayers, first turn off the water supply and disconnect the sprayer hose from the faucet diverter. Do this by unscrewing the coupling nut joining the hose and faucet diverter. Inspect the house for cracks or leaks and replace them if damaged. If it’s still in good shape, clean the sprayer head by removing mineral buildup with vinegar.
Securely reattach the hose using plumber’s tape on the threads for a watertight seal. Ensure you test by turning on the water and checking for drips or leaks at the connection points. Your full spray function should be restored after this fix.
Shutting Off Water Valves
The main water valve is usually located near the water meter in your basement, garage, or outside your house. To lock the valve, turn it clockwise a quarter turn until it stops, halting all water flow. In emergencies such as major leaks, shutting off the valve helps stop the leak and prevent significant damage.
You can also use it to drain residual pressure before addressing issues with your plumbing. Once the problems are fixed, slowly turn the valve counterclockwise to restore the flow and check for leaks as well. Label the valve for quick access in the future and to guide others who may need to use it.
Minor Pipe Leaks
Pipe leaks can cause serious damage, but when they are minor, you do not need the help of professional plumbing services immediately. The first step is to shut off the main water supply to prevent further water loss.
Clean the area and dry it up to observe the leak properly. Wrap the leak with plumber’s tape or self-fusing silicone tape to create temporary sealing. Alternatively, you can use the pipe repair clamp or epoxy for small cracks. Always avoid using duct tape, as it tends to buckle under pressure. This fix can last before you get a professional to permanently fix the leak.
Endnote
You should always inspect your plumbing regularly to ensure that you have no issues. Plumbing issues can become serious if left unaddressed for an extended period. When you notice minor plumbing issues, address them promptly. Using the tips we have discussed above, you can fix most of the issues you will encounter. Remember, do not attempt to fix major plumbing issues on your own.
