Plumbing problems can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. But with a little creativity and know-how, you can often solve them yourself. Here are 5 clever plumbing solutions that might just save you a call to the plumber:
Unclog Drains with a Plunger and Baking Soda
We’ve all been there: the sink or bathtub drain is clogged. Before reaching for the plunger, try this: sprinkle a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes, then pour hot water down the drain. The fizzing action can help break up clogs.
Stop Leaky Faucets with a Wax Ring
A leaky faucet can be a constant annoyance. If the leak is coming from the base of the faucet, it might be a faulty wax ring. This is a simple fix that you can often do yourself. Just turn off the water supply to the faucet, remove the old faucet, and replace the wax ring. Reinstall the faucet, turn the water back on, and tighten the connections.
Use Sewer Jetting To Unclog A Sewer Line
Sewer lines can become clogged with grease, hair, and other debris. If you have a clogged sewer line, you may need to call a plumber to use a sewer jetting machine. This machine uses high-pressure water to blast away clogs and debris.
Fix a Running Toilet with a Flapper Valve
A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month. Often, the culprit is a faulty flapper valve. This rubber seal prevents water from leaking into the toilet bowl. To replace it, turn off the water supply to the toilet, flush the toilet to release any remaining water, and lift the tank lid. Locate the flapper valve, remove it, and replace it with a new one.
Prevent Frozen Pipes with Insulation
Frozen pipes can burst, causing significant water damage. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements and garages. You can use pipe insulation or even foam sleeves. This will help keep the pipes warm and prevent them from freezing.
Use a Snake to Clear Stubborn Clogs
If a plunger and baking soda aren’t enough to unclog a stubborn drain, you might need to use a drain snake. This is a long, coiled tool that can be inserted into the drain to break up clogs. Be careful when using a drain snake, as it can scratch the pipes.
Fix a Leaky Water Heater
Fixing a leaky water heater can be a bit of a pain, but it’s definitely doable. First, turn off the power or gas and water supply to the heater. Then, drain the tank by attaching a hose to the drain valve and letting the water flow out. Once it’s empty, inspect the heater for the leak—it might be a loose fitting, a bad drain valve, or a worn-out pressure relief valve. Tighten loose parts or replace broken ones, and use Teflon tape to seal the threads. After reassembling, turn the water back on and check for leaks. If everything seems okay, turn the power or gas back on and monitor the heater. If the leak continues or the tank looks damaged, it’s time to call Simpson Plumbing.
Remember, if you’re unsure about how to tackle a plumbing problem, it’s always best to consult a professional. But with a little ingenuity, you might be able to solve the problem yourself and save some money.
