At some point, every household is bound to experience some common plumbing issues. While some of these issues might seem complex, most of them can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting techniques. Here is a guide on how to troubleshoot common plumbing issues at home.
Low water pressure
If you have low water pressure in your home, the cause could be the aerator. The aerator is often located near the end of the faucet, and it can get clogged with debris such as sediment or mineral deposits. To solve this issue, unscrew the aerator and clean it thoroughly. If cleaning the aerator does not work, the issue could be related to a clog in the plumbing system. Try using a drain cleaning solution or consider contacting a plumber for assistance.
Clogged drains
Clogged drains can be a nuisance and can cause significant damage if not dealt with promptly. The most common cause of clogged drains is the accumulation of dirt, hair, soap scum, and debris in the pipework. In most instances, you can unclog drains with a plunger or a plumbing snake. If your plumbing snake is not effective, try using a drain cleaner. However, it is essential to use caution when using drain cleaners as they contain harsh chemicals that can cause damage to the pipes.
Toilet trouble
A toilet that won’t flush is one of the most common plumbing issues in every household. There are various reasons why a toilet might not flush properly, including a faulty flapper or a clog in the drain pipe. In most instances, you can solve this issue by inspecting the flapper and the flapper chain. Sometimes, the chain might be too tight or too loose, which can cause the flapper to remain open or shut. Another way to check if the problem is a clogged drain is to use a plunger. If the issue persists, consider contacting a plumber.
Leaky pipes
Leaky pipes can cause significant damage to the house if left unaddressed. In most cases, leaky pipes are caused by loose joints, worn-out washers, or cracked pipes. To solve this issue, first, turn off the main water supply to the house and locate the leak in the affected area. If the issue is a loose joint or worn-out washer, you can replace these yourself. However, if the pipe is cracked, it is recommended to contact a plumber.
In conclusion, common plumbing issues can be easily solved with some simple troubleshooting techniques that you can do yourself. However, if the issue is beyond your capability, it is vital to contact a professional plumber to prevent the problem from escalating and causing significant damage to the house. It is also essential to perform regular maintenance on your plumbing system to prevent issues from arising in the first place. A well-maintained plumbing system ensures that you have sufficient and clean water supply and can save you money on expensive repairs in the long run.
