Plumbing issues are a household hassle. Issues can range from a simple to repair drip to a burst pipe. No matter the issue here are some of the most common signs you have a plumbing issue and how to fix the problems.
1. Dripping Faucet
It is rare to find a homeowner who has not dealt with a leaky faucet at some point. While the drip-drip-drip can be annoying, it can also be costly. The dripping wasted water can increase your water bill and cost you money. A single faucet can drip away hundreds of gallons of water over the course of a year.
In most cases the cause of the dripping faucet is a faulty internal washer. The washer may have become stiff, torn, worn, or dislodged and this is what will cause the dripping, leaky faucet. A simple replacement of this washer is all that is usually required to repair the leak. This can be an easy DIY fix, but if you are unsure about doing it yourself, call in a plumber. (If you have been thinking about replacing your dated faucet, now is the time! Have the plumber put in a new faucet instead of replacing the washer.)
2. Slow Drain/Clogged Drain
Slow draining sinks, baths or showers are caused by a blockage restricting the water flow, this blockage is usually the result of greasy foods, hair, soap, etc. Most blockages can be cleared using a plunger or vinegar and baking soda. Chemical clog removers are available at most stores but using these chemicals over time can damage your pipes.
If the clog cannot be easily cleared with basic DIY measures, call in a plumber to have the drain cleared.
To avoid this issue in the future, having your drains cleaned regularly will help to prevent this issue from happening.
3. Clogged Toilet
There is almost nothing worse than flushing the toilet and seeing the bowl fill up and but not drain away. Clogged toilets can usually be fixed with a plumber. However, if the plunging method does not work a sewer snake or drain auger is needed to loosen up the blockage. This type of repair is best left to the professionals. Depending on the type of auger or snake you use, it can damage the toilet.
4. Running Toilet
A running toilet can leak over 1 gallon of water per hour, which ads up to 26 gallons a day. The most common cause of a high water bill is a running toilet.
Repairing a running toilet is typically an easy DIY fix. Toilet repair kits are available at any hardware store and include directions. However, if you are unsure of your DIY skills, call a professional.
5. Water Heater Troubles
Another horrible problem to face is no hot water. If you suddenly have not hot water and you haven’t been running the washer, dishwasher and all other household members showered before you, there are few things that may be causing the issue.
It could be as simple as the pilot light going out and needing to be relit, it could be a faulty thermostat, or it could be sediment build up in the tank.
If it isn’t a simple fix of relighting the pilot light, you are going to want to have a professional inspect the water heater to determine the issue and resolve it with either a repair or a new water heater.
6. Low Water Pressure
If you find your water trickles out of your faucets it could be a symptom of low water pressure. Low water pressure can be caused by leaking pipes that are worn or corroded. Having your pipes inspected by a professional is the best option in this case.
If the shower has low pressure it is usually the result of sediment and mineral build up in the aerator (shower head.) This can be easily remedied by cleaning the aerator, you can remove it and soak it in vinegar or replace it completely.
7. Jammed Garbage Disposal
Stuffing certain things, like potato peels, in the garbage disposal or dropping in a spoon or fork, or even running the disposal without water can all cause problems with garbage disposal function.
There is usually a reset button on the unit, simply hitting the button may work. Otherwise, using the key that came with the unit can be used to free the motor.
If you are unsure of these DIY fixes, call in a plumber to help.
Call in the Big Guns
TR Miller Heating, Cooling & Plumbing provides customers with a comprehensive range of plumbing solutions in Plainfield, IL. If you have a plumbing issue, contact us today for professional service.
