Our homes plumbing system is usually a complicated one: it’s a complex arrangement of drains, taps and pipes. And if plumbing problems arise, what would you do first?
Things like plumbing can get a bit out of hand from time to time and when this arises, it’s good to know some DIY techniques. It’s also good to know when is the right time to ask help from your trusted local plumbers.
Here at Best Plumbers Club, we compiled the 6 common plumbing problems and what you can do about it. Let’s dive into it!
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6 Common Plumbing Problems (And What To Do!) Infographic Transcription
If you live in a house, and most of us sure do, you need to be ready for the most common plumbing problems – because they will occur. Yes, you need to find the best local plumber. Especially for those stinky, messy, damaging and expensive emergencies.
But when the taps don’t work, the sink is clogged, the toilet won’t flush and the shower is cold, it’s going to be up to YOU to be the first responder for these run-of-the-mill plumbing problems.
Are you prepared for the 6 most common plumbing problems?
Grab your plumbing tools and follow along with the Best Plumbers Club infographic as we explore the most common everyday plumbing issues, what to do, and when to call your local plumber.
1. Leaking Taps
As they drip, drip, drips all night, leaking taps are not only annoying, they also drive up your water bill.
Luckily, it’s probably just a damaged or worn washer needs replacing – and the good news is that you can try to do this yourself.
What to do?
- Turn off the water supply
- Turn on the tap to flush out any remaining water from the pipe
- Plug the sink so small parts don’t go down the drain
- Change the washer by removing the handle, the tap bonnet, and then the headgear. Take out the jumper valve and replace the washer.
2. Smelly Drains
If you’re not sure you’re suffering from one of the most common plumbing problems – a smelly drain – just follow your nose to where all that festering grease, old food and gunk is building up.
But for a clean, healthy home for your family and guests, you can probably fix it yourself without having to call a plumber.
What to do?
- Start by pouring plenty of almost boiling water down the drain
- Try adding half a cup of course salt, as the abrasive grains can dislodge the stinky gunk
- Baking soda, lemon juice and white vinegar are also worth trying, and wash it all down after a while with another round of hot water.
3. Blocked Sinks
But if that smelly sink has a completely blocked sink drain, you’ll have to step up your efforts for the next of our common plumbing problems.
Like a smelly drain, the cause is probably debris that has built up over time – so let’s go about clearing it!
What to do?
- All of the smelly drain tactics could work, but you might also need to use your plunger
- If the clog is stubborn, go to the hardware store and buy a drain snake
- If your blocked sink just won’t start flowing again, it’s time to call your friendly plumber.
4. Water Leaks
One of the most alarming plumbing issues is a water leak, especially if it’s a big one and your valuable home and assets stand to be damaged.
But when that water is leaking, try to calm your nerves and remember these steps.
What to do?
- Turn off the water. With the mains off, the leak should stop
- If a lot of damage has been done, take photos and videos for insurance purposes before cleaning up
- Call your friendly plumber. The reasons for a burst pipe or water leak can be serious, so don’t take any chances and instead rely on the pros.
5. Toilet not flushing
Depending on what’s in that toilet, not being able to flush it down can be even more embarrassing than frustrating.
Luckily, toilets are quite simple machines, so don’t panic. You can probably fix a toilet that won’t flush yourself!
What to do?
- You could be dealing with a broken flush button. In that case, you’ll need a new mechanism
- Take off the cistern lid and check for parts that look dislodged or broken. If there’s no water, it might be a problem with the water supply.
- See if the actual toilet bowl is clogged, and be prepared to either do some plunging or put on some rubber gloves and have a dig!
6. No hot water
If there’s no hot water, there will be no hot showers or baths – and nobody in the house will be happy with that.
You could have a problem with your hot water system, but there could be another of the following plumbing problems that is causing the issue.
What to do?
- Check the power supply, which could be electricity or gas
- Have you simply run out of water? If your tank is too small, a shower or two extra could be enough for that
- One of the most common plumbing issues is the hot water system’s pressure relief valve. If your hot water system is leaking, that could be the culprit.
For all of these common plumbing problems, it’s just a fact of life that only a licensed, experienced and knowledgeable plumber will always know what to do to get your house running smoothly again. Get in touch with the best plumber you can find today!
