Your home’s plumbing is a complex system comprised of pipes, drains, faucets, and appliances. While many simple home plumbing problems can be solved easily, some projects require a professional touch. Recognizing when a plumbing issue is too big for you to handle can prevent undue stress and water waste, as well as possible damage to your home or belongings if a major leak occurs. The key to healthy home plumbing is prompt action—if you have any questions about your home’s plumbing needs, it’s always best to contact your Longview plumber for assistance.
Leaks
Leaks are caused by a variety of factors, some of which you may be able to address on your own. In many cases, leaky faucets and showerheads are due to mineral buildup; you can remove mineral buildup easily with vinegar and a toothbrush to eliminate drips and restore normal water flow. If this doesn’t solve your problem, your faucet may have a damaged or deteriorated rubber ring inside. Solving this problem requires taking your faucet apart or, in extreme cases, replacing the faucet—these tasks are generally best left to a professional plumber. Additionally, water heater leaks and leaking or burst pipes should always prompt a call to your plumber for prompt attention and repairs.
Clogs
Clogged pipes are another common household plumbing problem that you may be able to solve on your own. As soon as you notice a slow drain, try pouring a pot of boiling water down it to loosen any forming clogs. You can also try using baking soda and vinegar as a pipe-friendly drain cleaner—pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a damp cloth for at least five minutes, then flush it with hot water. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as these can damage your pipes and lead to leaks down the road. If your drain has become completely clogged, you can try using a plunger to unclog it. If you’re still having drain trouble or you’re experiencing a severe backup, it’s definitely time to call in your plumber for professional help.
Home Assessments
A home plumbing assessment is simply a walkthrough of your home to identify any plumbing problems that require attention. In most cases, you can perform this simple task yourself—at least once a year, take a look at all your faucets, drains, and appliances to make sure there are no signs of leaks, mold, or standing water. If you do spot trouble and you aren’t sure of the cause, contact your plumber for a professional evaluation. When planning a home remodel or big plumbing project, it’s always better to have your professional plumber on hand to make sure any major changes to your plumbing are made properly.
Emergencies
A plumbing emergency is any situation in which water is causing damage to your home or you cannot use your water until the problem is solved. Emergencies include severe leaks, frozen or burst pipes, sewage backups, septic tank problems, sump pump failures, and water heater failures. When in doubt, it’s always best to call in a professional, rather than try to diagnose the problem yourself. Your plumber will know how to identify and solve your issue quickly to prevent further damage and water waste, saving you time, money, and stress.
Do you prefer to handle your own plumbing problems?
- I’m pretty handy with a plunger, but that’s about the extent of my expertise.
- I’ve replaced a faucet, but I wouldn’t want to do it again!
- I prefer to call in my plumber at the first sign of trouble, it’s the best solution for me.