When plumbing problems arise, it’s easy to feel intimidated by the work that needs to be done. In most cases, a licensed plumber should be contacted to repair the issue, but there are a few plumbing tasks many homeowners can fix on their own. When deciding to fix a plumbing problem yourself, the most important tip we can give you is to make sure you turn off your home's water supply.
While DIY fixes can address some plumbing issues, most should be handled by a capable and knowledgeable professional plumber.
Here are the most common issues you can DIY
Unclogging a Drain
One of the most common plumbing problems that arise when you own a home or property is a clogged drain. When this issue presents itself, you might feel tempted to reach for the jug of chemical drain cleaner under the sink, but you should avoid doing so.
Chemical drain cleaners can cause more harm than good, corroding pipes and laying the groundwork for future issues. Instead, you might be able to pour a simple solution of baking soda and vinegar down your drain to clear the clog.
Replacing Your Sink Sprayer
Sink sprayers are a modern convenience, but they can wear out easily. When planning to replace one, bring the sprayer or a picture to a local hardware store to ensure you purchase the correct replacement. You will also want to purchase thread sealant tape, so ensure that you wrap the sealant tape in the correct direction when replacing the sink sprayer. Otherwise, your sprayer will leak and cause further issues.
Replacing a Shower Head
Upgrading or replacing your shower head is an easy fix. However, you will want to ensure you have thread sealant tape on hand, which will help you avoid leakage. Wrap this tape around pipes, wrapping it clockwise several times. This will ensure that the new showerhead does not catch on the tape and unravel it, causing leakage.
Repairing a Running Toilet
In most cases, jiggling your toilet handle will not stop it from running. If you have this issue with your toilet, it most likely means the floater or stop valve has failed. Not only will a running toilet annoy almost anyone, but it can waste a lot of water and, in turn, money. The best way to repair this problem is to replace the entire float valve assembly. You can purchase these at almost any local hardware store.
Fixing a Toilet Flange
You might notice water leaking out on the floor around your toilet. This could be due to a damaged toilet flange or the piece of hardware that helps secure your toilet to the floor. You could also notice the toilet shifting or rocking and strange smells emitting. It is possible to address a damaged toilet flange independently, but a professional plumber can help ensure the process goes smoothly without further issues.