Easy Plumbing Fixes to Know

Fixing your own plumbing can be intimidating. Truth be told, some projects are best left to the professionals. When in doubt, you should always call in a knowledgeable plumber.

However, there are a few common plumbing issues with easy DIY fixes. These issues are likely to pop up in your home at some point or another. If you feel comfortable taking a swing at them, it can save you time.

Swapping Out a Shower Head

This is an easy process that one person can do at home. A necessary item for this task is thread sealant tape. When you buy a new showerhead, usually it will come with thread sealant tape for your use. If not, you can buy it separately too.

Simply remove the old head, clean the pipe, then wrap the thread sealant in a clockwise direction around the thread ridges several times, until all threads are covered. Then, simply screw the new shower head on clockwise.

Clear a Clogged Drain

Most people reach for a dissolving agent when clearing a clogged drain at home. However, those agents are very strong and can degrade your pipes over time. You should avoid chemical de-cloggers.

Instead, first drop a few tablespoons of baking soda down the clogged drain, wait 15 minutes, and see if anything has changed. If not, you will need to disconnect the trap and clean it.

Most homes feature PVC plumbing where the trap is easy to disconnect. You can disjoint the trap and clean it out by hand. Then, reinstall and test again. If you are still facing the issue after that, you may need a professional plumber.

Fix a Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal

Everyone knows the frustration of going to turn on the garbage disposal, only to hear it’s not working. Almost every time, an item is jammed in it.

The best way to fix this is to remove the unwanted item. Unplug the disposal or use the turnkey to turn it off at the service panel. Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If you don’t see anything, try turning the blades.

Many people are afraid to turn the blades, but they are not razor-sharp when they are not spinning. However, you may want to use the end of a broom to turn it for you to prevent any injury. After spinning the blade a few times, you’ll find a snag and be able to dislodge the unwanted item.

Conclusion

When in doubt, always call Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing. It’s not worth messing up your home’s plumbing to save a few bucks! There are plenty of DIY plumbing fixes that can be done safely at home if you are comfortable.