As a homeowner, you’ll run into a plumbing issue at some point; unfortunately, it is usually at the most inopportune time. To help you feel prepared, here’s a list of five common plumbing problems and how to fix them.
1. Common Plumbing Problems: Clogged Drains
One of the most common plumbing issues is a clogged drain. A clogged drain can be due to many things, including hair, food particles, soap scum, and grease. If you have a clogged drain, the first thing you should do is try to clear it with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use a plumber’s snake to remove the obstruction.
2. Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets constantly drip and waste a lot of water if left unchecked. The good news is that fixing a leaky faucet is usually pretty easy and only requires a few tools you likely already have in your toolbox. First, use a wrench and try tightening the nuts that hold the handles in place. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the washer or O-ring.
3. Running Toilets are Common Plumbing Problems
Many things can cause a running toilet, but the most common culprit is a faulty flapper valve. If your toilet is running, check the flapper to see if it is broken or cracked. It needs to seal completely to stop the water from leaking through. You may need to adjust the water level in the tank if the flapper valve is working correctly, but the water is too high.
4. Slow Drains
Slow drains may be due to buildup in the pipes – usually from soap scum, hair, or grease. The best way to clean your pipes and get rid of slow drains is to use a chemical cleaner designed specifically for drains. Pour the product into your drain and let it sit for 30 minutes before running hot water down the drain to flush the pipes.
If the drain cleaner doesn’t fix the issues, call a professional plumber to troubleshoot and make repairs.
5. Water Heater Issues
Water heater issues can occur because of sediment build-up, leaks, or pilot light problems. Look for leaks around the appliance when your water heater isn’t working correctly. If there are no leaks, check the pilot light to see if it’s lit and relight it according to your owner’s manual. Alternatively, the heating element may need replacing. If none of those fixes work, call a professional to help troubleshoot your water heater issue.
These are a few of the most common problems homeowners face. If you’re experiencing an issue and none of these solutions work, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for help. A plumber will have the experience and tools to make repairs quickly and safely.
Aarrow Home Inspections offers inspections to home buyers and sellers in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Contact us to schedule our services.