Most people can usually fix some common domestic plumbing problems on their own. There are many other more serious plumbing problems that are best resolved by calling a professional like Apofraxeis24 Antoniou. Knowing the difference can save you a lot of frustration and possibly some serious repairs. Here are 5 simple solutions to some common residential plumbing problems that you may be able to fix yourself.
1. Leaking faucets
With technological advancements in certain areas of life, one constant problem has been the common problem of leaking faucets in the home. Leaky faucets are often caused by worn out washers that can be easily replaced. With a single lever tap, you know where the culprit is. If you have a two-handle faucet, you can tell which faucet is leaking by seeing whether the water is hot or cold. If you don’t know, you can also swap the gaskets for the two, as that’s an easy fix.
- Turn off the water supply at the faucet you are using. It will be under the sink.
- If the handle has a decorative cap, it must be removed. Unscrew the handle, usually with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Remove the valve nut or cap securing the valve and lift the valve to expose the gasket underneath.
- It is best to take both the valve and the gasket to the hardware store to ensure you get the correct replacement.
- After replacing the gasket, simply reassemble your handle in reverse order.
2. The toilet is running or leaking
A leaky or running toilet is another very common plumbing problem. First, turn off the water supply to the toilet and remove the tank cap. You may just be attaching the chain to a rubber flap that is too long or too short. If it’s too short, it won’t let the flaps close. If it’s too long, it might get in the way of the flaps. If your toilet is leaking because the float isn’t rising high enough to stop the water from flowing into the tank, you can usually fix the problem by simply bending the rod down. Toilet tank repair parts and kits are available at any home improvement or hardware store, and they are inexpensive. A less common problem can be a leak from a large gasket located between the fuel tank and the seat. This is a bigger job, and unless you plan to lift heavy weights, it’s best to hire a professional.
3. Blocked garbage disposal
If your garbage disposal is clogged with something like a soda can lid and won’t work, you can fix it yourself. Provided you have the right tools. An Allen key can be attached to the disposed motor unit. Make sure the power is off, then you can insert a wrench into the bottom of the unit and manually rotate the disposal blade. After the project is published, you should be able to carefully remove the project. Once the item is removed, restore power, turn it on and it should work fine. If not, call expert plumbers as αποφραξεισ μαρουσι.
4. Clogged drains
You can use a variety of chemical-free solutions to unclog clogged (αποφραξεισ) drains. You can get a cheap little wire “snake” and slide it down the drain to unclog it. You can also try removing the plug with a plunger. Another all-natural solution is to pour some baking soda down the drain and add some vinegar. The bubbling reaction between the baking soda and vinegar will usually clear the clog.
5. Freezing Pipes
Freezing pipes are a common plumbing problem in Chicago and Crystal Lake. The best cure for frozen pipes is to turn on the faucet and open the cabinet door under the sink to allow the pipes to warm up, exposing the pipes to warm air. Using a hair dryer, heating tape, or a space heater can help thaw frozen pipes, but never with an open flame. You’ll be better served if you isolate potentially problematic pipes beforehand. If cold weather is expected to last for several days, let the faucet drip slowly to prevent the pipes from freezing. When the pipes freeze, any further expansion can cause them to burst, causing serious problems and damage.
When it comes to common plumbing problems, you know when to catch them and when to fold them
At Apofraxeis24 Antoniou, we’re often asked to do jobs that DIYers have tried themselves. If your problem is something you can easily fix, give it a try. If not, please feel free to contact Apofraxeis24 Antoniou.
