5 Plumbing Quick Fixes Every Homeowner Should Know

Some plumbing issues, such as leaky faucets, are easy to fix if you know what you’re doing. Let’s look at the five plumbing quick fixes that every homeowner should know.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

With basic tools and skills, you can fix a leaky faucet in about an hour. First, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the handle and inspect the cartridge or O-ring. If the cartridge or O-ring is damaged, replace it with a new one in the same orientation as the old one. Complete the process by reattaching the handle.

Fixing a Leaking Pipe Joint

The first step is to measure the diameter of the leaking pipe in order to select the right-sized rubber connector or repair sleeve for the job. Place the rubber connector or repair sleeve over the leaking joint, ensuring it covers the area of the leak. Once the rubber connector or repair sleeve is in place, slide the hose clamps over it and position them on each end of the connector. Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to tighten the screws on the hose clamps clockwise. This will create a tight seal around the pipe. Lastly, turn on the water supply to check for leaks. If this quick fix doesn’t resolve the problem, reach out to a nearby plumber to help you out.

Unclogging a Drain

It’s not unusual for drains to become clogged from time to time, especially if you’re fond of pouring cooking oil down the kitchen sink. Luckily, you can unclog drains in a matter of minutes using a plunger or drain snake.

Here’s how to unclog a drain using a plunger:

First, ensure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the plunger’s rubber cup. Grip the plunger handle in both hands and position it over the drain opening to form a seal. Next, plunge vigorously up and down without breaking the cup’s seal around the hole. Repeat if necessary until the drain clears.

Here’s how to unclog a drain using a plumbing snake:

Insert a plumbing snake into the drain and feed it slowly while turning the handle. When you feel some resistance, gently continue pushing the snake to break up the clog. After clearing the clog, run water down the drain to ensure it is flowing freely. If the drain doesn’t clear after trying these DIY methods, contact a nearby plumbing service for professional drain cleaning.

Stopping a Running Toilet

The common culprits behind a running toilet are a faulty lift chain or a damaged flapper. To fix this problem, lift the lid of the toilet tank and inspect these two components. If the chain is too tight or too loose, adjust the chain length, so there's just enough slack for the flapper to close fully when you release the flush handle. If the problem is caused by a damaged flapper, consider replacing it with a new one. Take the new flapper and attach it to the flush valve in the same way the old flapper was connected.

Caulking a Cracked Toilet or Bathtub

A cracked toilet or bathtub may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause serious water damage if not addressed in a timely manner. Luckily, plumber’s putty and caulk can save the day. To seal porcelain cracks, press softened plumber's putty into the crack on the porcelain surface and fill the crack completely with the putty. Remove any excess putty around the crack. Once the putty has cured, apply a thin bead of caulk directly over the plumber's putty. Allow the caulk to dry and cure fully.

Neighborhood Plumbing Is Here For Plumbing Fixes

If these quick fixes do not resolve the problem, it means there is a deeper problem that requires the intervention of a professional plumbing service. Here at Neighborhood Plumbing, we are ready to help you with all of your plumbing repair needs. From leak repair to toilet repair, drain cleaning, and faucet repair, we have the expertise to provide you with permanent solutions.