how do you stop plumbing problems

16 Easy Ways to Prevent Pricey Plumbing Problems

• First Things First: Get a Drain Screen. Rule No. 1 is to watch what goes down any drain, including hair, razor...
• Prevent and Clear Clogs. If your bathroom sink drains slowly or you notice bubbles, you’re probably developing a clog.
• Don’t Pour Anything Down the Drain. Plumbers don’t pour cooking grease, food scraps, or...

Full Answer

How to fix high water pressure plumbing problem?

The high water pressure plumbing problem can easily be solved by reducing the pressure entering your house on the water pressure regulator or valve. If you do not have a regulator installed in your home, you might want to invite a plumber to install one for you. A functional air chamber can help to prevent water hammers.

How do you fix a leaking plumbing leak?

The best time to fix a plumbing leak is before it happens, by properly connecting water supply and waste line fittings. Learn the tricks that pros use to make leakproof connections. Learn how to stop leaks in plumbing joints. We show you simple ways to find and stop common water leaks before they cause rot and other expensive damage.

Are there any common plumbing problems that can be fixed?

Some plumbing problems are more common that others. Some of the most common plumbing problems are also quite easy to fix. Doing the repairs for these common plumbing problems yourself can save you hundreds of dollars. When someone complains about having low water pressure it is usually at the sink faucet.

How do you get rid of a clogged drain?

Solution to this plumbing problem: If you haven’t used the sink in a while – make a mixture of baking soda and water (ratio should be 1:1), and pour it down your drain. Wait for 20 minutes and then flush it away by pouring water in the sink.

What is the most common plumbing problem?

The most common plumbing problems are clogged drains and toilets, leaky faucets and pipes, water heater issues, low water pressure, and a running toilet.

What can cause plumbing issues?

6 Top Causes of Plumbing ProblemsDelaying Plumbing Repairs. Maybe you have a leak in your bathroom sink. ... Throwing Food Waste in the Drain. ... Washing Hair Down the Drain. ... Allowing Dirt to Clog Your Pipes. ... Using Soap Bars With Fat. ... Tossing Objects in the Toilet.

How do I keep my plumbing healthy?

6 Tips For Keeping Your Home's Plumbing HealthyUse drain covers in your shower and kitchen sink. ... Switch from bar soap to body wash. ... Keep grease and cooking oils out of your drains. ... Run hot water down your kitchen drain after washing dishes. ... Refrain from using caustic/corrosive chemical drain cleaners.More items...•

What are signs of plumbing issues?

Read through these 10 hidden signs of plumbing problems in your home so you'll know when it may be time to call in a professional.Low Water Pressure. 1/11. ... Slow Drainage. ... Brown Spots on the Ceiling. ... Rattling Pipes. ... Foul Smells from the Drain. ... Higher Water Bills. ... Peeling Paint or Wallpaper in the Bathroom. ... A Gurgling Toilet.More items...

How do you know if you need new pipes?

Here are seven signs that'll let you know it's time to call on a professional for pipe replacement.Cracks. There are some signs that you need pipe replacement that'll be difficult to catch. ... Leaks. ... Corrosion. ... Discolored Water. ... Decreased Water Pressure. ... Dangerous Materials. ... Old Age.

How do you fix drainage problems in a house?

There are multiple options you can turn to, but be sure to research each carefully and have the tools necessary before committing to one.Reduce Your Watering Schedule. ... Extend Your Downspout. ... Dig a Creek Bed or Swale. ... Construct a Rain Garden. ... Install a French Drain and/or Dry Well.

How do you stop bathroom plumbing maintenance?

Here are some preventative maintenance tips you can use:Fix leaking faucets and showerheads. ... Unclog slow drains. ... Check all exposed pipes and appliances for water leaks. ... Fix leaking toilets. ... Be careful what you flush or pour down the drain! ... Check the water pressure.More items...•

What are the essential roles of a plumber?

PlumberInstall, repair, and maintain pipes, valves, fittings, drainage systems, and fixtures in commercial and residential structures.Collaborate with general contractors, electricians, and other construction professionals.Follow building plans and blueprints.Respond to, diagnose, and resolve plumbing emergencies.More items...

Why is plumbing important to the public health and welfare?

Plumbing Allows us to Control Water With the invention of plumbing system, the human race was able to control and direct water for their use. That's not all, plumbing allowed us to make sure that the clean and dirty water stays separated for the sake of our health, hygiene and wellbeing.

How often should plumbing pipes be replaced?

But how often should plumbing pipes and fixtures be replaced? Plumbing supply pipes such as galvanized, copper, CPVC, or pex can last 40 to 70 years. Plumbing drain pipes such as cast iron, ABS, and PVC can last 50 to 80 years. Plumbing fixtures such as bathtubs, sink, and faucets can last 10 to 30 years or more.

How long do pipes last in a house?

Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a life span of 80 to 100 years, copper lasts 70 to 80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24 to 45 years. In most new construction, this is seldom a problem, but if you live in an old home you might want to see what pipe material your house has.

Why plumbing problems at home need immediate repair?

Water Leaks No matter how small or big, leaks tend to leave a lot of damage behind. They lead to mold, mildew, wood rot, and even foundation deterioration. Thus, early water leak detection and repair are crucial for keeping the home safe. If you suspect a leak in the plumbing system, act on it immediately.

Do pipes need to be replaced?

Regardless of the material, each of these plumbing products have a life span that you should know so you can gauge whether you need an upgrade. Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a life span of 80 to 100 years, copper lasts 70 to 80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24 to 45 years.

Can clogged gutters cause plumbing problems?

Additional Impacts of Clogged Gutters A clogged gutter can cause water overflow that may overwhelm a basement sump pump. If you have storm drains, rainwater may not properly flow into pipes that direct water away from your house to a nearby river or stream. In addition, gutter issues can strain roof flashings.

What is a slow draining tub?

A slow draining tub is another very common plumbing problem that can be easily fixed. Often the tub drain is full of hair which slows the water down as it drains out of the tub. Once again the Zip-it tool or a pair of needle nose pliers are great tools that can be used to reach in and clear out the debris in the drain.

How to unjam a garbage disposal?

Fortunately, an Allen wrench can be used to unjam a garbage disposal. At the very bottom of the disposal there is an opening to insert the key. Using a 1/4 inch Allen wrench simply turn in both directions to free the motor.

Why is my sink draining slowly?

A sink that is draining slowly is a very common plumbing problem. Often the pop-up that is used to stop up the sink can collect a lot of hair and debris over time. To get the drain flowing smoothly again the debris needs to be cleaned out. One way to do this is to use the Zip-it, a handy plumbing tool, to clean out the drain.

Why is my water pressure low?

If both the hot and cold have low pressure the most likely cause is the aerator. Calcium deposits slowly build up in the ​faucet aerator and reduce the water pressure. A blocked aerator is a very easy thing to fix. To clean out a faucet aerator carefully remove the aerator, clean out any debris and build up on it and put it back on.

Can plumbing problems spring up?

There are many different plumbing problems that can spring up in the average home. Some plumbing problems are more common that others. Some of the most common plumbing problems are also quite easy to fix. Doing the repairs for these common plumbing problems yourself can save you hundreds of dollars. 01 of 05.

Can a tub stopper be removed?

If there is a tub stopper in the drain you may have to remove the tub stopper before getting to the hair clog. It is a good idea to clear out the debris in the tub drain on a regular basis even if the tub is not draining slowly. If it is left too long it could end up clogging the drain completely. 04 of 05.

What to use to stop a drain line?

If necessary, use a drain cleaning product containing chemicals to dislodge or dissolve the material that is causing the stoppage. Drano or Liquid -Plumr are examples of chemical products that may dissolve hair, soap residue, grease, or other materials which can clog a drain line.

What are the causes of plumbing problems?

This article should help a do-it-yourselfer find the cause of ordinary plumbing problems in the home. Low water pressure, excessive water usage, slow drains, noises, or other problems relate to specific elements of your plumbing system. The following steps may help you locate the source of a plumbing problem and describe some of the most basic repairs for each type of problem.

Why do pipes sweat?

Pipes also may sweat when cold water passes through them in warmer interior air-spaces in the home, and this water condensing on the surface of pipes may drip , causing moisture problems to appear where no leak exists. ...

How to check for leaks in bathroom sink?

Look under vanities and sinks for drips or similar evidence noted in the previous step. Use a flashlight to follow the path of exposed pipes, looking for droplets of water that will accumulate at the lower section before dropping off, and run your fingertips along these pipes to feel for wetness.

Why do pipes crack when frozen?

Pipes that contain water under pressure can become corroded, develop loose fittings, or crack because of freezing, allowing a continuous loss of water until repaired. Mildew or mold, darkened surfaces, or even puddles of water may occur below leaks.

What are some problems with drains?

Some typical problems are these: Slow sink or tub drains. Water backing up in the bathtub, shower, or sink.

How to tell if a toilet is running?

Listen for noises from your commodes/bathrooms, to determine if they are running at unusual intervals, when no one has recently flushed them. When there is a seal leak in the water closet (toilet), the tank will drain slowly over a period of time, until the water level drops sufficiently for the float valve to open and replenish it.

Why won't my toilet shut up?

A toilet that won’t shut up is another common plumbing problem that’s likely to drive you crazy. Many times, it’s a simple matter of replacing or readjusting the float or the flapper valve, but if you can’t repair it easily yourself, it may be indicative of a bigger problem.

Why does my toilet not work?

If your running toilet is due to sediment buildup or a leak, the problem may worsen to the point that the toilet doesn’t work at all, which most people would agree is a serious emergency.

What happens if your water pressure is low?

If you have a low water pressure problem due to aerator buildup, your low water problem may soon become a no water problem, which will be a serious emergency. If your low water pressure is due to a faulty pipe, you may already have a plumbing emergency and not even know it.

Is it bad to have a faucet dripping water?

This plumbing problem is so common that virtually everyone has probably experienced it at one time or another. That drip, drip, drip of a faucet that’s turned off, but still seems to be leaking water, is not only incredibly annoying, but extremely wasteful as well. You could waste gallons of water over the years through a dripping faucet.

Why is it important to take care of plumbing?

A little due diligence and simple maintenance can keep things running smoothly, though. Taking care of a home’s plumbing can also keep energy bills lower in general, help conserve water, and prevent a surprisingly huge water bill resulting from a crisis.

What to do if you see a leak in your house?

If you see anything, check with a licensed plumber. You can also get a water detection monitor that will alert you of a leak before the floor and surrounding walls are damaged. Check sites like Thumbtack and TaskRabbit to find professional plumbing services and home maintenance helpers in your area.

How much does it cost to replace a leaking toilet?

If you find the color in the bowl, replace the flush valve, which costs less than $15.

How to prevent soap scum from draining?

The best way to prevent build-up (including of soap scum and other debris or chemicals that inevitably go down the drain) is to pour boiling water down the drains once a week or so. Skip drain cleaner chemicals, which can be toxic and cause more problems in the long run.

Why do we need to insulate our pipes?

“When it’s winter, I make sure that my pipes are properly insulated to protect them from harsh winter weather and cold temperatures. A frozen pipe can easily burst and cause major water damage and troubles for the plumbing system as a whole.”

How to prevent mishaps while away?

Turn off the Water If You’ll Be Away. When you leave for a trip of more than a week, consider turning off the water to the house to prevent mishaps while you’re away. This is usually on the street side of the lowest level of the home. Don’t turn off the water heater; just the cold-water valve to the house.

Can wet wipes clog pipes?

Even wet wipes, including those that claim to be flushable, can cause clogs in the system. These items do not dissolve easily and can get stuck in your pipes, requiring a repair or replacement if the damage is extensive.”. Related: 25 Bathroom Products That Are a Complete Waste of Money. 9 / 17.

How to fix rattling pipes?

Check all of the pipes mounting to ensure they are tightly in place and replace or tighten any loose ones. This should take care of any rattling noises. If you are dealing with old pipes, anchoring them might be a problem and you might need to ask for professional assistance from a plumber.

Why are my pipes leaking?

Leaking pipes are usually caused by normal wear and tear or some other physical damage that might cause the pipes to break.

How to get rid of metallic smell in septic tank?

When tap water has a metallic smell – running the tap for a minute will get rid of the smell. If the smell is a result of organic waste – use a biological degreaser like Bio-Sol’s biological degreasers to introduce bacteria and enzymes that can help to digest the organic waste without harming the septic tank.

What happens to water pipes in winter?

Frozen pipes typically happen during winter. Water expands as it freezes and this can exert unbearable pressure on the water pipes. Sometimes, frozen water can even result in bursting of pipes. The pipes which freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to the elements e.g. swimming pool lines, water sprinkler lines, and any pipes that are outside the home. Pipes that are in any unheated segment of your home like the basement, garage, and attic can also freeze in winter.

How to thaw frozen water?

Solution: Use a hairdryer to thaw the frozen water by blowing warm air on the pipe. Locate where the pipe enters the house and use the dyer there. Do not attempt to use a blow torch because that will cause the water to boil in the pipes which might also make the pipes to break.

Why does my toilet keep running?

Faulty flapper or flush valves are the commonest reasons for constantly running toilets. The valve is made of rubber and it can get deteriorated over time because it is always underwater. If you rub the valve gently and get streaks of it on your finger, your valve is worn out and needs to be replaced. Go with the worn-out valve to a home improvement store to make sure you get the exact same one and then replace it.

Can you drain a hose outside in the winter?

It is a good idea to remove and drain any hoses that are used outside the home just before winter. Also, open the outside hose bibs to allow all the water to drain out and keep the outside valve open to allow for any freezing water to expand without bursting the pipes. You can also install insulating materials on an exposed pipe to ensure they are safe from freezing in winter.

What happens when a vent stops working?

If the vent stops working, the toilets and faucets in your home will start gurgling and smelling.

How to thaw a vent in winter?

If it’s frozen from the cold, just wait for a hot day and it will thaw. But if you’re in winter and a hot day isn’t coming anytime soon, use a sprinkler to thaw the vent.

Why does my faucet smell like gas?

Gas can fill the drain near the sink and when the faucet is turned on, it is forced up and out of the faucet, releasing the odor into the air. Sometimes this smell only occurs when you turn on the hot water.

Why does my shower have a trickle of water?

When you take your shower, only a trickle of water flows? The lack of pressure can be caused by a clogged showerhead, corroded pipes, or in the worst case, a water leak in your plumbing system

How to get rid of septic smell in a tank?

If you have a septic tank, treat the root cause of septic odor using biological treatment. Bio-Sol’s solutions work great because they are made from bacteria and enzymes and will treat odors at the source.

Which pipes freeze the most?

The pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to the cold, e.g. pool lines, sprinkler lines, and lines outside the house.

Is plumbing complicated?

Plumbing is often misinterpreted as messy, complicated, and difficult work. Most people turn to a plumber as soon as they spot a small leak.

When is the best time to fix a plumbing leak?

The best time to fix a plumbing leak is before it happens, by properly connecting water supply and waste line fittings. Learn the tricks that pros use to make leakproof connections. Learn how to stop leaks in plumbing joints.

How long does it take to fix a drippy kitchen faucet?

You can fix almost any drippy single-lever kitchen faucet in about an hour. We’ll show you how. The repair is a lot easier than you might think, even for a plumbing novice. So stop putting up with the annoying drip and let’s fix that thing. Learn how to repair a kitchen faucet.

Why is my sink drain slow?

It’s no surprise that a slow drain is a sign of a problem in your plumbing. Depending on where the issue is, it may be an easily removed clog near the drain, or it could be an issue farther down the line that will require significant snaking to resolve. Luckily, a little bit of detective work should help zero in on the problem. Cleaning out a simple clog is a great DIY fix, but slow drains throughout the home are often an indicator that there may be a major issue, like tree roots, in the sewer line. Here’s how to unclog a sink drain without using chemicals.

How to tell if a pipe is leaking?

The next time you’re in your basement or poking around under the kitchen sink, take a long look at your pipes to see if there are any signs of discoloration, especially around a union. If so, it’s a strong sign there’s moisture present. This may be caused by dripping from a sink or drain line, or something more serious, such as a slow leak in the supply line. If it’s the latter, then you should definitely put this at the top of your to-do list. Plumbing supply lines are pressurized, which means that a slow leak has the potential to turn into a big mess fast! If you are seeing discoloration and build-up, here’s how to stop leaks in plumbing joints.

Why is my water not clear?

If the water coming out of your faucets isn ’t clear, it’s an indication there’s something going on. Excessively cloudy water is often caused by air in the pipes, while yellow or brown water indicates rust. (Note that on occasion water can come into your home tainted by these materials; in older systems for example, there can be an onrush of rust in nearby homes when the fire department flushes the hydrants.) Less frequently seen is a green tint caused by extensive corrosion in copper pipes. This is a sign that it’s time to inspect the system ASAP, as pipes in that state of degradation usually begin to leak outside the system relatively quickly!

How to tell if toilet is wobbling?

Hopefully you simply need to tighten the seat. But if the bowl itself is wobbling, examine the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. If those bolts are tight and the bowl still wobbles, then there’s a chance that the wax seal around your toilet drain has failed, and water is eating away at your sub-floor. Replacing or reseating a toilet may seem like a major plumbing project, but this article breaks down the steps and shows it’s not that complicated and you can do it yourself.

What is a drain trap?

All those traps and drains are designed to prevent sewer gas from entering your home. The vents in your home should channel sewer odor up to the roof, while drain traps create a “water plug” that acts as a barrier stopping sewer odors from coming through the sink drain.

What does low water pressure mean?

A slow stream or low water pressure indicates an issue in distribution. If it’s only occurring at one location, it’s usually an issue in the faucet aerator— which is usually an easy fix. But if the water pressure is low in several spots around your home, that’s the sign of a bigger problem. In that case, you’re looking for a problem at the water main, in the hot water heater, or (worst case) an active leak in the supply line. If you’re seeing low water pressure in conjunction with some of the other items on this list, such as bubbling wall paint, it’s imperative that you take action right away. If you simply would like to have a stronger flow at your faucets, here’s how to boost the water pressure in your home.

Why is my copper pipe green?

Less frequently seen is a green tint caused by extensive corrosion in copper pipes. This is a sign that it’s time to inspect the system ASAP, as pipes in that state of degradation usually begin to leak outside the system relatively quickly! Originally Published: January 08, 2019.