When it comes to plumbing, prevention is the best cure. It’s much easier to take proactive measures now than it is to deal with the consequences of a plumbing disaster later on. Below, we’ll look at 5 common plumbing problems and how you can prevent them from happening.
Clogs
Clogs are one of the most common plumbing issues, and they can be a real nuisance. There are a few different ways that clogs can form. But they all have one thing in common: they block the flow of water. They can be caused by anything from hair to grease to food scraps. They can range in severity from a slow drain to a complete blockage.
The good news is that there are a few things you can do to prevent clogs from forming in the first place. First, make sure that you’re only putting things down the drain that are meant to go there. That means no grease, no coffee grounds, and no food scraps. Second, invest in a good drain strainer or hair catcher for your shower or sink. These devices will catch any potential clog-causing items before they have a chance to cause problems. Finally, be sure to clean your drains regularly with a natural cleaner like vinegar or baking soda. This will help keep them clear of built-up gunk that could eventually lead to a clog.
If you do find yourself dealing with a clog, there are a few things you can try before calling a plumber. First, try using a plunger to see if you can dislodge the blockage. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a snake or auger to reach down into the drain and break up the clog manually. If all else fails, call in reinforcements and get a professional to help.
Leaks
Water leaks can cause a lot of damage to your home if they’re not fixed promptly. Some common places for leaks are around the toilet, under the sink, and in the shower:
- Toilet leaks can occur at the base of the toilet where it meets the floor or between the tank and bowl. If you leak at the base of your toilet, you may need to replace the wax ring that seals the connection between the toilet and the sewer pipe. If you leak the tank and bowl, you may need to tighten the bolts that hold them together or replace the gasket that seals them.
- Sink leaks usually occur under the sink where pipes are connected. If you leak under your sink, you may need to replace a worn washer or O-ring or tighten a loose connection.
- Shower leaks can occur at any point in the shower where there’s a connection. If you leak your shower, you may need to replace a worn washer or O-ring, tighten a loose connection, or caulk around joints may need to be replaced.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common issue during the winter months. If you live in an area that gets cold, it’s important to take steps to prevent your pipes from freezing. There are a few things you can do to prevent your pipes from freezing. One is to insulate your pipes. This will help keep the heat in and the cold out. You can use pipe insulation or wrap your pipes with newspaper or towels. Also, be sure to keep the heat on. Even if you’re not home, make sure that your heat is set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help keep your pipes from freezing. Finally, don’t forget to let your faucets drip. A slow trickle of water can help prevent your pipes from freezing. Just be sure not to let the water run too fast, as this could cause damage to your pipes.
Running Toilets
If your toilet is making a running water sound even when it’s not in use, there are a few possible causes. A leaky flapper valve is one common culprit. This can happen if the chain that connects the flush handle to the flapper becomes disconnected. Or, this could happen if the rubber seal on the flapper deteriorates. You may also have a problem with your fill valve if water is constantly running into your toilet bowl. Another possibility is that one of the seals around your toilet’s base is leaking.
To fix a leaky flapper valve, start by checking the chain to see if it’s come loose. If it has, reattach it or replace it with a new one. If the rubber seal on the flapper is worn out, you’ll need to replace the entire unit.
To fix a problem with your fill valve, you may need to adjust the float level or replace the valve itself. If you leak at the base of your toilet, you’ll need to reseal it using silicone caulk or a plumber’s putty.
Overflowing Toilets
An overflowing toilet can cause water damage to your bathroom and create a health hazard. There are several reasons why a toilet may overflow. The most common reason is when too much paper is flushed down the toilet. When this happens, the paper can clog the pipes and cause the water to back up. Another common reason for an overflowing toilet is when there is a blockage in the sewer line. This can be due to tree roots or other debris that has made its way into the pipe.
If you have an overflowing toilet, it’s important to shut off the water supply to your home. Then, you should call a plumber as soon as possible.