Plumbing is considered one of a household's most important systems. It provides us with clean water while also taking away waste. However, plumbing problems can arise unexpectedly and quickly become irritating and inconvenient. Not only that, but it can also cause damage to your home. To avoid facing expensive bills and potential property damage, it’s essential to be aware of common plumbing problems and how to fix them.
1. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face, and it can happen in various parts of your home. A slow-draining sink or shower can be caused by hair, soap scum, or food debris stuck in the pipe. Fortunately, there are a few ways to fix this issue yourself. You can use a plunger, drain snake, or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. If these methods don’t work, consider contacting a professional plumber to help prevent further damage.
2. Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes can cause serious damage if they are not caught in time. A few signs indicate you have a leaking pipe, such as wet patches on walls or ceilings, a musty smell, or water stains on the floor. The most common cause of a leaking pipe is corrosion, which can happen over time. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the damaged area of the pipe. If you are unsure how to do this, it’s best to contact a professional.
3. Running Toilets
Running toilets can increase your monthly bill and waste significant water. Usually, a running toilet is caused by a faulty flapper valve in the tank. To solve this issue, remove the toilet tank lid, flush it, and observe if the flapper is sealing properly. If not, you can purchase a new flapper and install it yourself. If this doesn't work, contact a professional to inspect your toilet's fill valve or flusher.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be a frustrating problem, especially when you want to shower or wash the dishes. This is usually caused by debris buildup in the aerator or showerhead. To clean the aerator:
- Unscrew it from the tap and rinse it in vinegar and water.
- If your showerhead is causing low pressure, remove it and soak it in vinegar and water overnight.
- If this doesn't fix the issue, contact a professional to investigate if the low-pressure results from a more significant problem.
5. Water Heater Issues
Water heaters that are not functioning properly can cause you to take a cold shower, resulting in an unpleasant start to your day. The lack of hot water could be because of a pilot light malfunction, a broken thermostat, or sediment accumulation in the tank. If you need to adjust the pilot light or reset the breaker, you can do it yourself by following the instructions provided in the user manual. However, if you need to replace the thermostat or drain the sediment, it would be best to contact a professional to help you.
Licensed Brooklyn Plumbers
Fixing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY task that saves money and prevents unnecessary water wastage. However, if you encounter any difficulties or prefer to leave it to the experts, Einstein's Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is here to help. Contact us today at (718) 215-9664 for professional plumbing services in Brooklyn, NY.