SolvIt Home Services
SolvIt Truck

COMMITMENT TO CUSTOMER SERVICE

5 Common Plumbing Problems and Solutions

Share:
More
5 Common Plumbing Problems and Solutions

There are some common plumbing problems that all homeowners experience. For example:

  • What happens in your house when the faucet starts leaking or the toilet starts running?
  • How about when the kitchen sink clogs or pipe drips?

For many people, common household issues mean calls to the local handyman or endless weekend hours attempting to fix some seemingly minor issues.

Our expert technicians are here for youSchedule Online Today

Fortunately, some of the common plumbing problems that we all experience can be fixed with a little know-how and a can-do spirit.

If you want to know if your plumbing question or plumbing problem is simple or complex, then there are great online resources that are helpful and comprehensive.

Here are some common plumbing problems and questions, along with some simple solutions.

1. Why does my drain clog?

A common question in the plumbing industry relates to clogged drains.

Generally, clogged drains occur because people are not careful, particularly in the kitchen, about what goes down the drain.

For example, make sure to avoid:

  • pouring cooking oil (or fat) down the drain.
  • putting poultry skins (chicken, turkey), starchy (potato peels, rice), stringy (celery) or fibrous waste (coffee grinds, corn husks) down the drain.

Also, take some common sense and proactive steps, such as:

  • have the water running when you use the garbage disposal.
  • let the garbage disposal “catch up” after waste is poured down the drain.

To avoid clogged drains, be conscious and careful and you should avoid a clogged drain nightmare.

If a clog occurs, then there is always baking soda and vinegar. The natural chemical reaction will help break up clogs.

2. How can my hot water heater last longer?

Many plumbers receive questions about hot water heaters because they are one of the more expensive (and vital) home appliances.

Ultimately, to extend the life of a hot water heater, then preventative maintenance works best. Take the time to have an annual inspection to ensure the hot water heater is working efficiently.

In particular, some water heater essentials will help your water heater live a long and prosperous life.

  • Flush the Tank
  • Inspect the Anode Rod
  • Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve
  • Inspect the Expansion Tank

After all, mayhem does occur when you least expect it.

3. Why does my toilet constantly run?

Homeowners who experience running or leaky toilets are one of the most frequent questions that people ask plumbers.

The typical reason that toilets run is the flap in the bottom of the tank is not sealing shut. Ever wonder why jiggling the handle generally works to stop the running water?

To fix a running toilet, take the top off the tank and flush the toilet while watching the rubber flap.

Does it completely close?

If not, some of the water that is entering the tank is flowing out through an unsealed flap. The unsealed flap means water continues to run because the float ball trigger is never activated to stop the flow since water never reaches the fill line.

That jiggle? The handle is connected to the rubber flap with a chain, and jiggling it will reposition the flap so that it may seal more securely.

For more information and details, then check out our do-it-yourself toilet fixes before having to call the plumber.

Related, thanks to the folks at HomeZada for a nice infographic to help fix a leaking faucet.

how to stop a tap from leaking infographic

4. Why did my water bill suddenly jump?

Did you know that toilet leaks can waste as much as 4 to 5 gallons of water per minute?

More importantly, did you realize that wasted water can cost up to $100 per month?

Frequently, questions related to a running toilet mean an increase in the water bill. If your water bill jumps, then the first thing to check is the toilets to ensure they are not running or leaking.

If the toilet is not running, then check the fill valve, which is inside the tank, is not overflowing through the overflow pipe. There is a small tube that should be connected to it and confirm the water level is about 1 inch below the overflow tube or level with the manufacturer’s mark inside the tank.

The last thing to check is the flapper. For a quick check, then add a couple of drops of food coloring to the water tank and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Then check the water in the bowl and see if it changed color. If so, then it is time to change the flapper.

5. What’s the best way to choose a plumber?

trouble finding a plumber is a common plumbing problemWord of mouth is a great marketing tool and many plumbers are asked how to find the best plumbers. In general, take some proactive due diligence to ensure plumbers are licensed and have a history of doing quality work.

  • Check to make sure the plumber is licensed in your local area or state.
  • Consult the Better Business Bureau to learn about any complaints.
  • Ask the plumber for references and call previous clients.

Additionally, since we have been providing our communities with plumbing service for quite some time, we worked to help put together a Guide to Find the Best Plumber to help hire a quality plumber that meets your unique needs.

As noted by many plumbing professionals, it is important to choose a plumber or plumbing company that you can trust. For those homeowners looking to find and develop a relationship with a local plumber, then we are pleased to share that SolvIt was recognized as one of the best plumbers in Connecticut in the Best of Hartford reader’s poll.

 

What are your plumbing problems?

We can solve it.

If you have any plumbing problems that are beyond your technical capabilities to fix, then give us a call or schedule an appointment online. We offer the same high-quality service, anytime, any day.

Categories: