Do-It-Yourself Plumbing Tips
If you're like most people, plumbing jobs are outside your comfort zone. When we see water overflowing a basin and blockages where it should flow freely, we're at a loss, and our only solution is to call a plumber ASAP. Actually, most plumbing problems fall into only a few categories, and the fixes are simple enough that anyone can do them provided they have the proper tools. For tips on repairing easy plumbing issues without involving the expense of a professional plumber, keep reading.
The most common plumbing issues involve clogs and leaks, and they can happen anywhere within your plumbing system. Acquaint yourself with where the shut-off valves are located in your home so that if you develop a leak, you'll be able to turn off the water running to that area until it's diagnosed and repaired. Just this little knowledge can end up saving you from a lot of expensive damages and repairs.
The tools that you'll need to fix most plumbing issues can be purchased in your local hardware store, and it's a good idea to have the basics already on hand, because when a water emergency happens, and it will, you'll be ready to respond immediately. Some of the items you should have include:
* rubber gloves
* safety goggles
* a heavy-duty rubber plunger
* a plumber's snake
* plumber's putty
* both a regular and a Phillips screwdriver
* simple household cleaning products, such as lemon juice and baking soda
* slip-joint pliers
* adjustable pipe wrench
Although the list may seem intimidating, you don't have to buy everything at once. Start with a plunger and then add to your plumbing toolbox gradually as you can afford to.
Clogged drains are the most common plumbing problem. It's just something that happens from time to time. A plunger is an absolute necessity. Usually a clogged toilet or sink can be cleared by just plunging it several times. A plunger forces water and air into pipes which usually is enough to clean it out and let water run freely again. If this doesn't work, you can try running a plumber's snake down the drain to see if the metal tape will free it up. Once you've opened the pipe, run plenty of water down it to make sure it's clean.
Leaking faucets and shower heads can be removed using a pipe wrench or screwdriver. Take the fixture apart and clean every piece inside and out with a gentle solution of baking soda or lemon juice and water. Replace worn screws and gaskets. Once the faucet is reassembled and back in place, make sure everything is tight. Most times, this will correct the leakage problem. Be sure you shut off the water before tackling this job, though.
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The most common plumbing issues involve clogs and leaks, and they can happen anywhere within your plumbing system. Acquaint yourself with where the shut-off valves are located in your home so that if you develop a leak, you'll be able to turn off the water running to that area until it's diagnosed and repaired. Just this little knowledge can end up saving you from a lot of expensive damages and repairs.
The tools that you'll need to fix most plumbing issues can be purchased in your local hardware store, and it's a good idea to have the basics already on hand, because when a water emergency happens, and it will, you'll be ready to respond immediately. Some of the items you should have include:
* rubber gloves
* safety goggles
* a heavy-duty rubber plunger
* a plumber's snake
* plumber's putty
* both a regular and a Phillips screwdriver
* simple household cleaning products, such as lemon juice and baking soda
* slip-joint pliers
* adjustable pipe wrench
Although the list may seem intimidating, you don't have to buy everything at once. Start with a plunger and then add to your plumbing toolbox gradually as you can afford to.
Clogged drains are the most common plumbing problem. It's just something that happens from time to time. A plunger is an absolute necessity. Usually a clogged toilet or sink can be cleared by just plunging it several times. A plunger forces water and air into pipes which usually is enough to clean it out and let water run freely again. If this doesn't work, you can try running a plumber's snake down the drain to see if the metal tape will free it up. Once you've opened the pipe, run plenty of water down it to make sure it's clean.
Leaking faucets and shower heads can be removed using a pipe wrench or screwdriver. Take the fixture apart and clean every piece inside and out with a gentle solution of baking soda or lemon juice and water. Replace worn screws and gaskets. Once the faucet is reassembled and back in place, make sure everything is tight. Most times, this will correct the leakage problem. Be sure you shut off the water before tackling this job, though.
For more info visit http://accessiblebathsolutions.com.
