Plumbing issues keep popping up? Calling the plumber can cost a decent chunk of change each time they come out. The good news is there are simple hacks you can easily learn to help avoid costly repairs. If you’re good with tools and don’t mind tackling a project, we will show you how to temporarily fix some of these issues yourself!
Do you consider yourself home repair savvy? If so, try tackling minor plumbing repairs before calling in the pros. Everything from unblocking a clogged toilet, resolving a drippy faucet and even fixing a leaky pipe can be done with some minor ingenuity. Learn some cool hacks and avoid calling in a plumbing company with this post.
Save Money and Worry Less With These Helpful DIY Plumbing Tips!
Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet can literally bring any household to a screeching halt. Keep in mind a backed up toilet can be the sign of a large underlying issue like a tree root invasion or overfilled septic tank, which will require professional assistance. But if you know what is causing the clog, such as a toy or too much toilet paper, you can fix it yourself.
Purchase a cheap plunger or snake to purge the water and loosen the blockage. A snake tool is simple to use and can wind down and break up large paper clogs. This should restore flow, if not you may have to remove the toilet to locate the clog.
Slow Drains
Shower drains that backup can be disgusting when trying to shower. The first hack is simple: clear the drain using a snake or plunger to remove hair and sludge and restore flow. If that doesn’t work, try adding a solution of:
- ½ cup of salt
- ½ cup of baking soda
- ½ cup of distilled vinegar
Add salt down the drain or as close as possible, then baking soda. Pour vinegar over the mixture and let sit for an hour. This is a natural way to restore drainage to sinks and showers. If it fails, try a drain cleaner solution to break down debris chemically.
Leaking Pipes Under The Sink
Not only do leaky pipes slow water flow they can damage cabinets and flooring underneath. Getting it fixed pronto is essential to a healthy home environment. A quick way to stop a leak is to first locate the water shut-off valve and stop the flow. Dry the leaky area completely. Then grab a rubber pipe connector and wrap it around the leak. Pipe wraps are another DIY plumbing option and act like a fix-it-fast epoxy that can temporarily keep leaks in check.
Dripping Faucet
A faucet that constantly drips is more than just annoying, it can wrack up your water bill if you live in the city or cause your pump to run more than normal if you have a dug well. An epoxy-based repair sleeve may stop water from leaking but it’s only a short-term fix. Your best bet is to shut off water directly going to the faucet. Look for the plumbing line running directly to it. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply. From there, you will either have to install new o-rings, seals and washers in the faucet if they are damaged or replace the faucet all together.
Not all plumbing problems are an easy fix, but they can tide you over until the plumber arrives or you can afford one. Visit your local hardware store in advance and stay stocked up on drain cleaning tools and epoxies so you’re never empty-handed during an emergency. Give it a try and don’t be afraid to tackle a small plumbing project on your own.
~Here’s to Your Success!
