Plumbing emergencies can happen anytime and can cause a lot of damage to your property. These issues can quickly escalate from burst pipes to clogged drains and become costly to repair.
However, not all plumbing issues require the services of a professional plumber in Berwick. Knowing some essential DIY plumbing tips is crucial as a homeowner can help you prevent and handle emergencies.
Here are the top DIY plumbing tips for homeowners in case of emergencies.
Turn off the Main Water Valve
If you are experiencing a plumbing emergency, the first step you should take is to turn off the main water valve. This valve controls the water supply to your entire home, so turning it off will stop the water flow and prevent further damage.
You will usually find the main water valve near the water meter or where the main water line enters your home. To turn it off, you must use a valve key or a wrench to turn the valve clockwise. Ensure everyone in your household knows the location of the main water valve and how to turn it off in an emergency.
Fix a Leaking Faucet
A leaking faucet can be a frustrating and wasteful problem. To fix a leaking faucet, turn off the water supply to the sink. Then, remove the handle and use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut that holds the valve stem in place.
Pull the valve stem out and inspect the washer at the bottom of the stem. Replace it with a new one if it’s worn out or damaged. You may also need to replace the O-ring or pack around the valve stem.
Call a professional plumber if you are uncomfortable working on your faucet.
Repair a Running Toilet
A running toilet can be a frustrating problem. To fix a running toilet, start by checking the flapper valve. This valve is at the bottom of the tank and can become worn or misaligned over time. Adjust or replace the flapper valve if necessary.
You can also check the chain that connects the flapper valve to the flush handle. If it’s too tight or loose, adjust it accordingly.
Another possible cause of a running toilet is a faulty fill valve. You may need to replace this valve to stop the running. But if you are unsure how to fix a running toilet, consider calling a professional plumber in Berwick.
Fix a Burst Pipe
If you have a burst pipe, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage to your home. The first step is to turn off the main water valve to stop the water supply to your home. Then, open all the faucets in your home to drain the remaining water from the pipes.
Use a pipe cutter to cut out the damaged section of the pipe and replace it with a new one. If you don’t have the necessary tools or skills, it’s best to call a professional plumber for help. In the meantime, use towels or buckets to catch any water and prevent it from damaging your home.
Repair a Water Heater
If your water heater is not working correctly, there are a few things you can do to fix it.
First, check the power supply to the unit. If it is an electric water heater, ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Check the pilot light to ensure it is still lit if it is a gas water heater. If these are not the issue, try flushing the tank to remove any sediment buildup. You may also need to replace the thermostat or heating element.
If you are uncomfortable working on your water heater, it is best to call a professional plumber in Berwick to diagnose and fix the problem.
Unblock a Toilet
A clogged toilet is undeniably a messy and unpleasant experience. To fix a clogged toilet, turn off the water supply using the valve behind the toilet tank. Then, use a plunger to try and remove the clog. Ensure the plunger is fully submerged in water and create a tight seal around the drain. Pump the plunger up and down several times until the clog dislodges.
If the plunger does not do the trick, try a toilet auger. Insert the auger into the toilet bowl and turn the handle until the clog is dislodged. Once the clog clears, turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet.
Fix a Slow Drain
Remove the drain cover to fix a slow drain and check for visible clogs. Use a flashlight to see if there is any hair or debris buildup. You can use a drain snake or an auger to remove the clog.
Another effective way to dissolve the clog is to pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Then after letting it sit for half an hour, flush the drain with hot water.
Final Say
These basic DIY plumbing tips can help you prevent and handle emergencies successfully. But be a little cautious while doing any DIY plumbing work; always prioritise your safety and turn off the main water valve before attempting DIY plumbing repairs.
If the plumbing issue is beyond your DIY skills, it is best to call an emergency plumber in Berwick.
Doyle Plumbing is one of the best plumbing services you will find. Check out their website and services before deciding. We hope it helps!
