As your friendly neighborhood plumbing expert, I understand the sheer range of plumbing issues that can plague your household. To support and educate homeowners with the same, we are presenting insights about the most common plumbing problems, along with easy-to-follow fixes. The goal is to keep the leaks, clogs and plumbing breakdowns at bay while giving you a better understanding of when to call in a professional plumber.
1. Dripping Faucets:
Our first suspect on the list is the unpleasantly familiar dripping faucet. Not only does it waste significant amounts of water over time, but it is also capable of collectively driving sleep-deprived homeowners mad with its incessant drip-drip sound. The fault lies with worn-out or damaged internal washer. Be vigilant about this issue, as it’s not only annoying but also environmentally disrespectful.
Easy Fix: Replacing the washer usually solves the dripping conundrum. Dealing with the rings and screws may seem like a plumbing puzzle, so when in doubt, call your plumber.
2. Low Water Pressure:
Low water pressure often manifests as a weakened stream from your sink or shower. It most commonly happens due to blocked pipes or aeration at the faucet end—often the result of sediment or mineral build-ups.
Easy Fix: You can clean aerators by unscrewing them from the faucet end and flushing debris. For larger scale blockages, a professional plumber can diagnose and rectify the problem.
3. Running Toilets:
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day! It’s a problem that usually stems from an imbalanced or broken float, a flapper seal issue, or a fill tube problem.
Easy Fix: You can buy a toilet repair kit from any home improvement store. If you’re unsure how to go about installing it, or the problem persists, help from a professional plumber might be the right call.
4. Clogged Drains:
Slow or stagnant water in your bath, sink, or kitchen usually indicates a clogged drain. Hair, grease, food particles, or a combination of these are often the culprits.
Easy Fix: A plunge should be the first line of defense. If this doesn’t work, you can use a plumber’s snake or a hand auger.
5. Leaky Pipes:
Leaks, especially under sinks, are a common reason to call in professional plumbing services. They typically occur at pipe joints and can cause significant damage if left uncared for.
Easy Fix: Temporary solutions like tape, compounds, and fillers can be used, but they won’t last very long. For a permanent fix, replacing the section of the pipe is the best solution which should just be done professionally.
Having the right information can help you avert a plumbing catastrophe but remember, even though these common issues can sometimes be fixed with a DIY approach, it’s always better to hire a professional plumber when in doubt. Not only will a professional plumber diagnose the root cause of your plumbing problems quickly, but they can also save you time and prevent potential future issues.
So, whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a major blockage, always be vigilant and proactive about seeking the right professional help and preventive measures. Stay tuned to our blog for more valuable insights into everything plumbing and remember, we’re only a call away!
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