A Guide to Common Plumbing Problems

Our homes rely on a complex plumbing system of dozens of pipes to carry water in and wastewater out. Every day it takes in and out many uncountable liters of water, which is no doubt a blessing. 

While these pipes usually work tirelessly, occasional problems can arise. These problems only arise due to our negligence. Fortunately, with the help of the internet and modern tools many common plumbing issues can be simply solved or with the help of a professional.

A normal pipe repair can done individually easily but if the problem can’t be contained then you should go call for professional help. There are some of the common plumbing issues explained below: 

• Clogged Drains

Slow drains are a sign of clogged drains and it can lead to frustration. Often, the cause of the clogged drain is the collection of hair, soap scum, or other stuff in the pipes. Here’s what you can try to illuminate the clog:

• You can plunge it out with the help of a good old-fashioned plunger. Make sure the sink is full of enough water to cover the cup of the plunger, and forcefully pump for 15-20 seconds.
• Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain mixed with a cup of hot vinegar. Let it stick inside the pipe for 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
• Boiling water can help melt the blockage. Carefully pour a container of boiling water down the drain.

If these methods don’t work, it’s best to call a professional plumber for drain repair.

• Leaky Faucets

A leaky faucet is a waste of water and money. Here’s how to deal with this problem:

• Tight the nut of the faucet. The packing nut is located beneath the handle. Use a wrench to tighten it slightly.
• If tightening doesn’t work, the washer inside the faucet might be worn. Replace the washer of the faucet. 
• Consider replacing the entire new faucet because older faucets can go bad, replacing the entire faucet might be the best solution in the long run.

• Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure throughout your house could mean that there is a problem with the main valve. However, low pressure can be due to:

• Minerals can build up in the faucet aerator, the small screen at the tip of the faucet. Unscrew the aerator and clean it with vinegar or a wire brush.
• Some faucets have cartridges that control water flow. If a cartridge is clogged, it might need replacement.

• Running Toilets

A running toilet is not just irritating but it also wastes a lot amount of water. Here are a few things to check:

• The flapper valve inside the tank seals the drain hole. If it’s damaged, it won’t create a proper seal, causing the toilet to run continuously.
• The fill valve regulates how much water fills the tank after a flush. A faulty fill valve might not shut off properly, leading to an overflowing tank and a running toilet.

If you get confused with any of the problems and don’t know what to do, then don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.

While these pipes usually work tirelessly, occasional problems can arise. These problems only arise due to our negligence. Fortunately, with the help of the internet and modern tools many common plumbing issues can be simply solved or with the help of a professional.

• Tight the nut of the faucet. The packing nut is located beneath the handle. Use a wrench to tighten it slightly.
• If tightening doesn’t work, the washer inside the faucet might be worn. Replace the washer of the faucet. 
• Consider replacing the entire new faucet because older faucets can go bad, replacing the entire faucet might be the best solution in the long run.