What Are Some Common Residential Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them?

Plumbing issues are a common part of life and can be frustrating. They can also be costly if left unchecked.

Knowing some common residential plumbing issues and how to fix them can help you save money, time, and stress. By following our guide, you’ll be able to solve some problems yourself and avoid calling a plumber for trivial repairs.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are an unavoidable occurrence in most residential homes. They can cause water back-ups and even damage plumbing, so learning how to handle a clogged drain as quickly as possible is important.

Fortunately, a clogged sink or tub drain is often an easy fix requiring little time and effort. However, there are also a few things you should know before you attempt to tackle this task on your own.

The first step is determining if the problem stems from something in the drain. If you see a blockage in the drain, try a plunger or drain snake to remove it from the pipe and move on to the next solution.

If the clog is deeper in the drain, consider using a plumber’s snake or auger to reach it and clear it out. These tools have a more powerful and longer wire, which can be more effective at breaking up clogs stuck in pipes.

You can also pour a few cups of baking soda down the drain and then add half a cup of vinegar, slowly adding the liquid until it dissolves. It can help remove grease and soap scum, common causes of clogs in bathroom sinks.

Finally, it’s important to avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners down the sink or tub. These products aren’t effective against clogs and can eat away at metal pipes. They can be harmful to your health and the environment.

The best way to resolve a clogged drain is to try a few manual techniques and see which works. If you’re unsure what to do, call a professional plumber who will diagnose the issue and recommend a solution.

Leaky Faucets

One of the most common residential plumbing issues is a leaking faucet. It is an annoying and costly problem that can lead to mould growth and health concerns if left unchecked.

To repair a dripping faucet, you must first find the source of the leak. Typically, this can be traced to the washer and O-ring in the valve seat. Occasionally, it can also be caused by corrosion or a broken part.

You’ll need a wrench or a screwdriver for the job. Be sure to use a soft head wrench to avoid damaging the faucet parts.

In addition, you can also try replacing the washers on the faucet handles. These metal or rubber pieces seal the gap between the ring and the pipe to prevent leaks. They can also wear out and need to be replaced, depending on how much usage they receive.

Broken Pipes

A broken pipe is a common problem that can cause water damage to your property. Thankfully, some simple ways exist to deal with this issue and prevent it from causing more damage.

First, you can use clamps to seal any leaks or cracks in your pipes until you can fix them. It is a simple way to stop the water from coming out and will let you save time and money until you can hire a plumber to repair the pipe.

Another thing you can do is wrap some tape around the hole in your pipe. It will help to seal it, but it won’t do much for the water. It’s best to contact a plumber before you start working on this, however, since it could be dangerous to try and do it yourself.

The main benefit of hiring a professional from Aquatrade Plumbing to repair your pipe is that they will have all the specialized equipment and knowledge needed to fix the pipes without causing more damage. It’s also worth noting that homeowners insurance often covers these repairs as a peril for your home.

Frozen Pipes

When the temperature drops, homes with poor insulation or thermostats that are set too low are at risk for frozen pipes. It occurs because water expands when it freezes, putting pressure on metal or plastic pipes and eventually causing them to break.

The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to prepare your home during the warmer months by installing insulation in your basement, crawl space and attic. Alternatively, wrap your pipes with heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables.

You may also want to try running water through the frozen pipe to help it thaw. It will gradually melt the ice within it, relieving some of the pressure.

Another option is to use a hair dryer or portable space heater. Apply gradual warm heat to the frozen section of the pipe, moving up and down its length. This method can take a little time, but it’s an effective and relatively safe way to thaw frozen plumbing.

Don’t use open flame devices like a blowtorch, propane, or kerosene heater to thaw frozen plumbing; they can damage the surrounding material and pose a fire hazard.

As soon as you thaw the frozen section of pipe, shut off your home’s main water supply and call a professional plumber to come and repair the damaged pipe. It will protect your home and minimize water damage.