Dealing with plumbing issues can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and tools, many common plumbing problems can be tackled by the average homeowner. Here are the top 10 plumbing fixes you can do yourself, along with a more detailed explanation of each and the necessary tools.
1. Unclogging a Sink Drain
Hair, soap scum, and other debris can build up in sink drains, causing slow or complete blockages. Using a plunger or a drain snake, you can clear the clog and restore proper drainage. Start by removing any visible debris from the drain with your hands or a pair of tongs. If that doesn’t work, use a plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog. If the clog persists, use a drain snake to physically break up and remove the blockage.
Tools Needed: Plunger, Drain Snake, Bucket, Gloves
2. Fixing a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet can be a frustrating and wasteful problem. By replacing the washers or O-rings, you can often resolve a leaky faucet without needing to replace the entire unit. Turn off the water supply to the faucet, disassemble the faucet, and inspect the washers and O-rings for wear or damage. Replace any worn components and reassemble the faucet.
Tools Needed: Faucet Wrench, Basin Wrench, Needle-Nose Pliers, Replacement Washers/O-Rings
3. Replacing a Showerhead
Over time, showerheads can become clogged with mineral buildup, reducing water pressure and flow. Removing and replacing the showerhead is a simple fix. Unscrew the old showerhead, wrap the new showerhead’s threads with plumber’s tape to create a tighter seal, and then hand-tighten the new showerhead in place.
Tools Needed: Plumber’s Tape, Adjustable Wrench, Screwdriver
4. Unclogging a Toilet
A clogged toilet can be a messy and inconvenient problem. Using a plunger or a toilet auger, you can clear the blockage and restore proper flushing. Start with the plunger, creating a seal around the toilet’s drain and plunging vigorously up and down. If the clog persists, use a toilet auger to physically break up and remove the blockage.
Tools Needed: Plunger, Toilet Auger, Bucket, Gloves
5. Fixing a Leaky Toilet
A leaky toilet can waste a significant amount of water and lead to water damage. Replacing the flapper or tightening the connections can often solve this issue. Inspect the flapper for wear or damage, and replace it if necessary. Check the tank-to-bowl connections and tighten any loose bolts or nuts.
Tools Needed: Pliers, Replacement Flapper, Adjustable Wrench
6. Replacing a Garbage Disposal
When a garbage disposal stops working, it’s often more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than attempting a repair. Disconnect the electrical and plumbing connections, remove the old disposal, and install the new one, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tools Needed: Pliers, Basin Wrench, Screwdriver, Replacement Garbage Disposal
7. Fixing a Leaky Pipe
Small leaks in pipes can often be repaired with epoxy or a pipe clamp, rather than requiring a full pipe replacement. Clean the affected area, apply the epoxy or secure the pipe clamp, and allow the repair to fully cure before turning the water back on.
Tools Needed: Pipe Clamp, Epoxy Putty, Emery Cloth, Bucket, Gloves
8. Unclogging a Shower Drain
Hair and soap scum can accumulate in shower drains, causing slow drainage. Using a drain snake or a wire coat hanger, you can remove the clog. Start by removing the drain cover and use the drain snake or coat hanger to physically break up and remove the blockage.
Tools Needed: Drain Snake, Wire Coat Hanger, Bucket, Gloves
9. Replacing a Shutoff Valve
If a shutoff valve is not functioning properly, you can replace it to ensure water can be turned off for future repairs. Turn off the main water supply, disconnect the old valve, and install the new one, making sure the connections are tight and secure.
Tools Needed: Adjustable Wrench, Basin Wrench, Replacement Shutoff Valve
10. Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water and be caused by various issues, such as a faulty flapper or float. Troubleshooting and replacing the problematic components can resolve this problem. Inspect the flapper and float, and replace them if needed. Adjust the float to ensure it is properly controlling the water level in the tank.
Tools Needed: Pliers, Replacement Flapper, Replacement Float, Adjustable Wrench
