If you’re a DIYer, it can be very tempting to tackle plumbing issues yourself. However, it’s important to know which jobs you can safely do on your own, and which ones require a licensed professional.
Some common plumbing problems that don’t get addressed are dripping faucets, running toilets, and low water pressure. This article will cover some simple fixes you can try before calling in a plumber!
1. Clogged Drains
There are many plumbing problems that can happen to homeowners, but clogged drains are one of the most common. The drain lines that run throughout the house carry waste from sinks, toilets, tubs and more to the main sewer line or septic system. If these lines get clogged, it can cause wastewater to back up into fixtures in the home, leading to water damage and other issues.
Some clogs are caused by food and other items that don’t break down, such as fibrous foods, egg shells and grease. Other clogs are caused by paper products, such as toilet papers, baby wipes and “flushable” wipes that do not dissolve. If your home has hard water, mineral buildup can also clog pipes.
To help prevent clogs, always place fats and oils into a heat-proof container and dispose of them in the trash. You can also reduce the amount of paper products in your home by installing a garbage disposal or using a compost bin. If you notice signs of a clog, such as standing water in your bathtub during a shower or the smell of wastewater backing up into the home, call a plumber. Blocked drains in Geelong are more frequent than most homeowners think and it can be fixed by a professional plumber.
2. Leaking Pipes
If you own a home, there’s no doubt that sooner or later you’re going to have to deal with some type of plumbing problem. But not all plumbing problems are created equal and it’s important to know which ones you can safely tackle yourself and which ones require professional help from a licensed plumber.
One of the most common plumbing problems is leaking pipes. It’s essential to address any leaks in your plumbing system right away as they can cause serious damage to your home and lead to high water bills. They can also create mold growth which is not only unsightly but can be a health hazard for you and your family.
There are many reasons why your pipes may leak. One of the most common is that your pipes can be damaged by shifting and movement in the ground over time. Another reason is that careless joints made when your pipes were installed can fail. Whether it’s caused by a bad solder job or just from age, leaking pipes need to be dealt with quickly.
3. Clogged Toilets
Clogged toilets are one of the most common plumbing problems that home owners and facility managers have to deal with. Fortunately, it’s also one of the easiest to resolve. A plunger is likely to be found in every home and a plunger can usually unclog a toilet in seconds. If plunging doesn’t work, a plumber’s snake or auger can break up a tougher clog.
A clogged toilet can be caused by flushing non-flushable items like cotton balls, feminine hygiene products and baby wipes. A toilet can also become clogged when a foreign object falls into the bowl, such as a razor blade or child’s toy. Another common cause of clogged toilets is blocked air vents. These vents are designed to allow fresh air into plumbing lines to prevent sewer gasses from entering the home, but they can become obstructed by leaves and debris.
If a toilet is constantly clogging, there may be an issue with the sewer line. A professional should evaluate and repair this problem as it involves major plumbing components like sewage pipes and can be dangerous to tackle on your own.
4. Low Water Pressure
When showerheads and sink aerators get dirty, they restrict the flow of water. This is often the culprit for low water pressure in one room or throughout a home. Clean out your fixtures regularly to avoid this problem.
Sometimes the problem is with the pipes. Leaks and narrowing of pipes can cause problems with water flow. A plumber will need to assess the situation and determine if cleaning is possible or if the pipes need to be replaced.
Low water pressure is an indicator that something is wrong with the plumbing system. It may be a problem with the water supply or it could have to do with too many fixtures that are drawing on the water at the same time. If it’s a problem with the water supply, homeowners should talk to their neighbors and find out if they are experiencing similar issues. They should also check the meter to see if the reading has changed while they’re not using water.