Knowing when to call in the pros is essential as a homeowner. Some plumbing issues are easy enough for you to tackle at home, while others require a professional’s expertise and tools.
Some common plumbing problems include clogged toilets, leaking water pipes, and leaky faucets. Learn about these issues and how plumbers solve them to keep your home comfortable and safe.
Clogged Toilets
Clogged drains and toilets can be more than just a nuisance. If left unchecked, clogged toilets can cause overflow and damage your home’s plumbing systems.
Most drain clogs are caused by toilet paper, waste, and materials that shouldn’t be flushed (like baby wipes and feminine hygiene products). If you’re uncomfortable using chemical drain cleaners, a plumber can help dislodge the blockage and get your toilet working again.
Before calling a plumber, try using a plunger to loosen the clog. With the open end of the plunger completely over the drain, push down and up rapidly. This can create suction and break up or dislodge most clogs. If plunging doesn’t work, pour hot water into the toilet bowl. Add a little dish soap to help lubricate the drain and break down clogs. If you’re still having trouble, call a Drain Solvers plumber to use a snake or auger. Remember, an overflowing toilet is a plumbing emergency that needs to be addressed immediately.
Slow Drains
If one or more sinks drain slowly, it could indicate a problem with your home’s plumbing system that requires professional attention. A variety of things can cause slow draining. A clog, foreign objects, or chemical cleaners can all contribute to this issue. Additionally, your pipes may be corroding or breaking down, which is often a leading cause of slow drains.
You can try at-home solutions to fix this issue, such as using vinegar and boiling water or baking soda (recalling your fifth-grade volcano project). However, the most typical fix is calling a plumber for a skilled drain cleaning service.
A clogged drain is inconvenient and can lead to severe damage and expensive plumbing repairs. This is why keeping up with regular drain cleaning services is essential.
Leaky Pipes
As you can see, plumbing problems may take many shapes and be challenging. Some of these problems are simple and can be handled with DIY tools and methods, but others may require professional help to prevent damage to the property or the health and safety of its residents. Knowing what issues to look for and when to call the plumber will help you save money, time, and frustration in the long run.
Leaky pipes are a significant problem, leading to water waste, expensive repairs, and mould growth. This can be caused by various factors, such as corrosion, extreme temperatures, and even nail holes created during construction or remodelling.
If you have a leaky pipe, shut off your water before calling a professional. You should also turn off any electrical outlets in the area to avoid potential fire hazards.
Water Heater Issues
Many homeowners encounter water heater issues, including a pilot light that won’t stay lit or a leaky unit. If left unattended, these problems can cause extensive water damage and create electrical hazards. Leaky faucets also waste water and money; ignoring them can lead to mould or mildew growth. These should be addressed immediately by a plumber who can install new parts to fix the problem and prevent it from happening again.
Food scraps in kitchen sinks, hair in bathroom drains, coffee grounds in bathroom drains, or an issue with the home’s sewage system can all result in clogged drains. Depending on the severity, a homeowner may resolve some clogs with a plunger or drain cleaning solution. In contrast, others require professional assistance with specialized equipment like a plumbing snake.
