Plumbing problems can happen from time to time, but you don't always have to call a plumber for repairs. You can fix minor plumbing issues on your own, which is a great way to save money and prevent more serious problems from happening, such as major water leaks. The following are some easy DIY plumbing repairs for your home.
Toilet keeps running
A constant running toilet can waste water and cost you more because of higher water bills. This issue is usually caused by a rubber flapper leak in the tank of the toilet itself. The flapper usually prevents water from flowing to the bowl from the tank, but one with a loose seal around the opening can cause your toilet to run. To make sure the flapper is the problem, put a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If it reaches the bowl, replace the flapper with a new one.
Faucet leaks
If you have a dripping or leaking faucet, it's usually due to a worn O-ring or washer. For faucets with different hot and cold water handles, you'll need to turn water off to each one separately to figure out which one is causing the leak or drip. Turn the water off, then take the handle apart to get to the O-ring or washer. Replace the worn part with a new one, which should stop your faucet from dripping or leaking.
Low water pressure
Low water pressure can make it hard to take showers, wash dishes and use water for other purposes in your home. Making adjustments to the pressure-reducing valve in your home might help correct this problem.
This valve, which is shaped like a bell, is typically placed close to where the main water line enters your home. Loosen the locknut on the valve, then turn the bolt clockwise to raise water pressure. Turning it counterclockwise reduces water pressure. If you still have water pressure problems, call a plumber, as the issue may be more severe.
Drain and toilet clogs
Clogged drains can end up causing big problems in your home, such as leaks and overflowing sinks and tubs. Unclog drains using drain cleaning tools or chemical products designed to dissolve drain debris. This should allow water to drain normally in your sinks and tubs. If your drains are still clogged, have a plumber perform repairs. For a clogged toilet, use a plunger to remove the blockage.
About the Author
Marsha Charles
Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018.
I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.
Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022.
Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.
