DIY Plumbing Tips to Try Before You Call a Pro

Taming the Clogged Drain

A slow or fully clogged drain is one of the most frequent household plumbing annoyances. Before you reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can damage your pipes over time, try these mechanical solutions first.

The Power of the Plunger

A plunger is a simple yet powerful tool. For it to work, you need to create a proper seal.

1. Choose the Right Plunger: A standard cup plunger works best for sinks and tubs. For toilets, use a flange plunger, which has a soft rubber flap that folds out to fit the drain opening.
2. Create a Seal: If you’re working on a double-basin kitchen sink, block the other drain with a wet rag. For bathroom sinks or tubs, cover the overflow opening. This ensures the pressure you generate is focused on the clog.
3. Plunge Effectively: Place the plunger over the drain and add enough water to the basin to cover the plunger’s cup. Push down gently to create a seal, then pump vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. Repeat a few times if necessary. The goal is to use water pressure to dislodge the blockage.

The Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

For minor clogs, especially those caused by grease or soap scum, this classic home remedy can be surprisingly effective.

1. Pour about half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow it with half a cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, which helps break down the gunk.
3. Plug the drain and let the mixture sit for at least an hour, or even overnight for stubborn clogs.
4. Finally, pour a pot of very hot (but not boiling) water down the drain to flush everything through.

Identifying and Addressing Minor Leaks

That constant drip, drip, drip is more than just annoying—it’s a waste of water and money. A small leak can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. Finding the source is the first step to fixing it.

Checking Your Faucets

A leaky faucet is often caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring. While replacing these parts can be a simple DIY project for those comfortable with tools, first confirm where the leak is coming from. Check the spout and the base of the faucet handles. Sometimes, simply tightening the packing nut at the base of the handle with a wrench can stop the drip.

Investigating Your Toilet

A “silent” toilet leak can go unnoticed for months. Here’s a simple way to check for one:

1. Remove the lid from your toilet tank.
2. Add a few drops of food coloring to the water inside the tank.
3. Wait about 15-20 minutes without flushing.
4. Check the water in the toilet bowl. If you see any of the colored water, you have a leak. This usually means the flapper—the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank—is worn out and needs to be replaced.

Checking Exposed Pipes

Look under your sinks and around the base of your toilet for any signs of moisture, water stains, or mildew. A small puddle or dampness could indicate a loose connection. Try gently tightening the pipe fittings with a wrench, but be careful not to overtighten, which can cause more damage.

Basic Water Heater Maintenance

Your water heater works hard every day. A little regular maintenance can extend its life, improve its efficiency, and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Check the Temperature Setting

Most manufacturers recommend setting your water heater to 120°F (49°C). This temperature is hot enough for household needs but helps prevent scalding and reduces energy consumption. Settings higher than 120°F can accelerate mineral buildup and corrosion inside your tank.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve

The Temperature and Pressure (T&P) relief valve is a critical safety feature. It opens automatically to release excess pressure or heat. You should test it annually.

1. Place a bucket under the discharge pipe to catch any water.
2. Gently lift the valve’s lever. Hot water should flow out of the pipe.
3. Let go of the lever, and it should snap back into place, stopping the flow of water.
4. If the valve doesn’t release water or continues to drip after the test, it needs to be replaced. This is a job best left to a professional.

Flush the Tank

Sediment like sand, rust, and mineral deposits can build up at the bottom of your water heater tank over time. This buildup reduces efficiency and can cause damage. Flushing the tank once a year helps clear out this sediment. While some homeowners are comfortable doing this themselves, it involves handling hot water and connecting hoses, so many prefer to have a professional handle it.

When to Call Northeast Plumbing and Mechanical

DIY solutions are great for minor issues, but it’s important to know your limits. Attempting a complex repair without the right tools or experience can turn a small problem into a major, costly disaster.

You should always call a professional plumber if you experience:

• Persistent Clogs: If plunging and other methods don’t work, there may be a serious blockage deep in your pipes.
• Low Water Pressure: A sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home could signal a major leak or a problem with your water main.
• No Hot Water: If your water heater isn’t working, it could be an issue with the heating element, thermostat, or gas line.
• Signs of a Hidden Water Leak: Water stains on ceilings or walls, a musty smell, or a suddenly high water bill all point to a leak you can’t see.
• Major Installations or Replacements: Installing new fixtures, pipes, or a water heater requires professional expertise to ensure it’s done safely and up to code.

Our team at Northeast Plumbing and Mechanical has the training, tools, and experience to handle any plumbing challenge, big or small. If you’ve tried these tips and are still stuck, or if you’re facing a problem that’s beyond a simple fix, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to provide reliable, professional service to keep your home’s plumbing