August 11/2022

15 Plumbing Tasks Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do

Whether you are handy or generally a hands-on person, ensuring you have the tools and skills to do the job is essential. Some homeowners prefer DIY solutions when it comes to plumbing repairs, and others do not so much. While DIY projects are aimed at saving money, significant issues should be left to an expert plumber. As the leading plumbing service, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey can handle any plumbing issue with the utmost professionalism. Here are some tasks you should know how to do around the house.

Snake a Drain

Many plumbing tips involve snaking a drain, but it is crucial to understand how it's done. A 20 ft-long drain snake is preferred for general usage to effectively clear blockages. Start by pushing the snake cable into the affected drain while turning the handle clockwise. Once you've pushed past the U-shaped curve in the pipe and feel some resistance, hook the clog and continue to nudge the blockage to break it. Finally, pull the snake carefully so you don't get the material hooked on the snake cable.

Fix a Leaky Faucet

While a leaky faucet is not a major cause for concern, it can lead to significant damage and costly repairs if it's not addressed in time. If you want to fix a leaking faucet, start by turning off the water to the faucet and stop the drain with a piece of cloth to avoid losing small parts. If you have a damaged compression sink, you need to replace the washer, but a leaking washerless faucet needs a new O-ring.

Replace a Shower Head

Whether replacing an old plumbing fixture with low-flow, remodeling the bathroom or installing a low-consumption alternative, you'll probably need to replace your showerhead sooner or later. Start by removing the existing showerhead to create room for the new one. Use a thread seal tape at the base before screwing in a new piece or an old one in perfect condition.

Unblock a Clogged Toilet

Nothing is frustrating and inconvenient like a clogged toilet. Luckily, it's usually easy to fix using an auger or plunger. Shut off the water supply valve, which is located behind the toilet, to stop the bowl from overflowing. Once this precautionary measure is complete, start plunging or snaking the toilet with a drill. Recurrence means it's time to hire a plumbing service for professional maintenance.

Unblock a Clogged Sink

Many homeowners tend to use a drain cleaner at the sight of a clogged sink. However, not every product on the shelf is ideal for your plumbing. A safer alternative entails mixing vinegar and baking soda as the cleaning agent. If the blockage is not cleared, place a bucket under the U-shaped pipe and unscrew it to see if there's a clog before clearing it and replacing it.

Replace a Faucet

Replacing a faucet is often considered a complex task that only an expert plumber can handle. However, it is not as difficult as it seems, and you can safely replace your sink with ease. Please choose a new fixture with holes in the same position as the old sink, so it fits perfectly. Shut off the water to the fixture and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Clean Out Gutters

Gutters are not the first in mind when considering maintenance. The last thing you want is a clogged gutter attracting pests to your home when the leaves decompose. Use a ladder to reach the roof and remove the leaves and debris using a garden hose, leaf blower or wet-dry vac. If you are afraid of heights, don't worry! Our plumber can do all the heavy lifting efficiently and quickly.

Unclog a Roof Drain

As you clear debris from the gutter, you can unclog the roof drain to protect your home from various weather conditions like rain. This is usually the cause of blockages by debris and leaves, resulting in backups and leaks compromising the structural integrity of your roof. Unscrew the drain and remove debris with a drill, gloved hands or hose.

Turning Off the Water Main

Every homeowner needs to know where the water main is located and how to shut it off in an emergency. Many homes have the valve near where the water main enters your home from the street. Cut off the water supply by turning the wheel handles clockwise, but it may be time to hire a plumbing service for repairs if the water is still flowing.

Clean the Sump Pump

Sump pumps are usually found in the basement to prevent flooding, so it's vital to ensure it's in optimal condition. Homeowners should clean their sump pumps at least twice annually, which involves removing them from the pit and rinsing it with a hose. This is an effective way to get rid of caked-on dirt and debris. If there's water in the pit, drain it before returning the sump pump.

Fix a Stripped Faucet

Another common plumbing problem in most homes is a spinning faucet which can be fixed between 5-10 minutes. Shut off the water before removing the cover plates or faucet handles and unscrew the locking nut. Once you have removed the old faucet, replace it with a new one and turn on the water to ensure everything is functioning as expected.

Fix a Dishwasher Clog

A dishwasher is an essential appliance in every home that helps maintain a clean and healthy kitchen. However, it can be a nuisance and a great inconvenience when it's not working right. The first step to unclogging a dishwasher is to remove the racks for better access to the drain gate. Use a screwdriver to remove the gate and snake an auger to clear debris in the pipe. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can also be used as an alternative.

Adjust Water Heater Temperature

Is your shower too hot or cold? Well, a minor adjustment of the thermostat on your unit should solve the problem. Many water heater models have the control knob on the front near the bottom. Turn the knob to the desired temperature setting as indicated by the black arrow on the top. If the problem persists, onboard a plumber to assess and fix the problem.

Fix a Leaking Washing Machine Hose

Pooling water under the washing machine is a sign of a leaky hose. Over the years, the hose experiences wear and tear, and the severity of damage determines whether to fix or replace it. To repair the leak, shut off the water and disconnect the appliance. Use a towel to soak up the water after you unplug the hose, replace it with a new one and check the connections before turning on the water.

Replace Toilet Insides

Water constantly running after flushing is not normal and signifies a malfunction in the inner components. Check the flush valve, fill valve or flapper for signs of damage or improper connections since they are the likely culprits. Replacing internal toilet components is simple, but the slightest miscalculation can result in severe damage.

Contact us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of New Jersey for more information on our services. Please schedule an appointment with our team of experts to enjoy quality services at competitive market rates.