Most homeowners have no idea how to fix even the most basic plumbing problems. Plumber callouts can be very expensive, however, which is why educating oneself is important. Needless callouts can cost homeowners thousands of dollars each year. There are some problems that cannot be fixed alone, but the overwhelming majority can. This post’s intention is to dive into some of the most common home plumbing problems and their fixes, so you can save yourself money on unnecessary contractor callouts.

Leaking Pipes

Leaking pipes can be tricky. They can sometimes be fixed without professional support, though often need a plumber’s expertise to be effectively resolved. According to one company specializing in sewer and water line plumbing Dallas, you can request a price quote on their website. Most plumbing services allow you to get e-quotes, which give you insight into how much you are going to have to pay to have your home’s pipework repaired. Never ignore leaks, because doing so can lead to their gradual deterioration and cause dampness in your home, which can lead to mold and support rotting beams and floorboards. For independent resolution, identify the source of a leak, tighten joints if you are able to, and use either pipe repair tape or epoxy filling. Sometimes pipes have to be totally replaced, though. Usually, only plumbers are able to do this, due to the complicated nature of replacing pipes.

Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are a household plumbing issue that can be resolved without a plumber’s intervention. Often, all homeowners need to do is to take a plunger to their toilet or sink. When this does not work, a drain cleaner can be used. The drain cleaner breaks down whatever’s causing a blockage. In more severe blockages, high-powered vacuum cleaners can be used. Plumbers usually have access to these, though it’s also possible to hire them yourself. Occasionally, pipes need to be taken apart in order to identify the source of a blockage. If you plan on removing pipes to find a blockage and remove it, make sure to turn your home’s water supply off. If you do not, you could flood your house and even hurt yourself. There are lots of follow-along guides you can use for free that will help you with unblocking a pipe, so consider using them.

Dripping Tap

Dripping taps can be very annoying. We’ve all experienced how uncomfortable they can make living in a house before. There’s nobody on the face of the planet that hasn’t had a run-in with a dripping tap. The easiest way to resolve this problem is to shut your home’s water supply off, then take the tap apart and search for whatever’s causing the drip. Often, all that needs to be done is to replace either the washer or cartridge inside of your tap. If this still does not fix the problem, you can buy a new tap and replace your old one. Replacing taps is a very straightforward job and doesn’t require a professional’s help. You can either order a new tap online or go into a local hardware store and buy one. You will just need basic tools like a wrench and screwdriver to replace a tap. Remember to turn your water supply back on once your tap has been worked on or replaced.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be very problematic. It can make washing one’s body or doing the dishes supremely difficult. It is a problem that sometimes requires a plumber’s support. The most common cause of low water pressure is closed shutoff valves. Always check them first if you are trying to get to the bottom of low water pressure. Also, check for leaks, and clogged pipes, and if you have a pressure regulator, check that, too. If none of these work for you, you have no option but to call a plumber in. If this is the case, make sure you find one with experience and good reviews. A plumber’s level of experience can be ascertained from their reviews, which is why you should always take a look at them. Their reviews will tell you everything you need to know about them.

Running Toilet

A running toilet can be a headache to deal with. The most common cause is a warped or damaged flapper valve. If you are not familiar with the components of a toilet, take a look at them online first, so you know what each one is. You can check the flapper by lifting your toilet’s lid off. Your float could also be damaged. A damaged float is a common cause of running toilets. Also, check your toilet’s fill valve to make sure it is not damaged or leaking. A damaged or leaking fill valve will need to be replaced. Any repairs that need to be made to your toilet that you are unable to do should be outsourced to a plumber. Make sure you make immediate repairs to your toilet and any other plumbing appliance that isn’t working, because ignoring them could lead to your problems getting much worse.

Water Heater 

Finally, a faulty water heater can make your life extremely difficult, especially if you live in a cold part of the world. You could argue that a faulty water heater is actually very dangerous since it could mean you are unable to heat your home or take warm showers. Repairing water heaters isn’t something you should try and do yourself, unfortunately. You could quite easily cause even more damage and make problems much worse. If you do this, you are going to end up having to pay a lot of money for a water heater replacement. The only time independent repairs are advised is if the pipes leading into your water heater are frozen, in which case you can defrost them by pouring boiling water over them. Frozen pipes are a relatively easy fix that many people are simply unaware of.

This post has covered the most common household plumbing issues. As you can see, most can be done alone. If you do have any concerns or problems relative to your home’s plumbing, make sure to get in touch with a professional. A professional will be able to give your home’s plumbing the attention it needs. Find the most qualified one you can if you do plan on hiring one.