DIY Plumbing Hacks for Your Basic Plumbing Problems

A noisy toilet, a clogged kitchen drain, or a slow-running shower are minor annoyances that most homeowners can fix themselves. Here we’ll cover a few easy DIY plumbing hacks and how-tos to get your home’s water system flowing smoothly again.

Fix low water pressure in your shower

A strong flow of H20 is essential to get the maximum cleaning power from your shower. If your water pressure is low, it will take longer to scrub up.

However, the problem may be due to a clog, the flow regulator, or a water leak. Or, it could be due to a partial shut-off valve at the curbside main.

One of the best DIY plumbing hacks is to scrub the showerhead with an old toothbrush.

1. Check the spray nozzle for soap residue, stuck-on grime, and hard water deposits.
2. Dip the toothbrush in a non-abrasive cleaner and scrub the showerhead to remove stuck-on gunk.
3. Turn on the faucet and recheck the water pressure.

Learn more about fixing low water pressure in your shower here.

Fix a running toilet

Either a worn flapper or a fill valve that needs adjusting are often reasons for a running toilet. Luckily, both issues are easy to fix.

Home repair expert, Danny Lipford, says, “A constant running toilet means that the flapper isn’t sealing correctly or the fill valve isn’t properly adjusted. If the flapper is worn or damaged, turn off the water supply, empty the tank, and disconnect the flapper from the flush chain and then snap it from the flush tower. Snap-on a new flapper and reconnect the chain before turning the water back on.”

A noisy, running toilet may also be due to the tank water level being too high. If water is constantly running over the top of the overflow tube, the fill valve may need to adjust.

Bend the float arm down until the water shuts off to fix the problem. To find the right level, some minor adjustments may be needed.

Unclog a drain without using chemicals

When it’s time to unclog a drain, it’s good to know that using a smelly chemical cleaner isn’t always necessary. In some cases, an old-fashioned plunger or a drain snake can do the job just as well.

Using a plunger

Here’s how to unclog a kitchen sink with a standard cup plunger:

1. Cover the overflow drain with a wet towel.
2. Place the rubber cup securely over the sink drain and submerge it in the standing water.
3. Then, scoop out any excess water into a utility bucket to minimize messes.
4. Gently push down on the plunger handle to force the air out.
5. Continue plunging with quick, firm thrusts. Don’t lift the plunger, or you will break the seal.
6. Continue plunging for about 20 seconds.
7. When you remove the plunger, the clog should be eliminated.

Using a drain snake

Danny Lipford mentions, “A drain snake is great for removing hair from a slow-draining bathroom sink or tub drain. Insert the drain snake down the sink drain until it reaches the clog and pulls it back out. The brush or hooks on the end of the drain snake latch onto the hair and remove it.”

Learn more about unclogging a sink here.

When should I call a plumber for help?

Sometimes, plumbing issues can be more of a challenge requiring knowledge that only a plumbing professional can provide. Below is a list of complicated plumbing problems that you may want to consider hiring a plumbing professional to fix.

A Stain on the Ceiling

A brownish stain on your ceiling may be a sign that there’s a water leak above. Have a professional identify the source of the leak and repair it before you end up having to repair the ceiling.

Pipes That Rattle

If you turn off a faucet and hear rattling or chattering in the wall, it may be due to the water flow stopping or changing directions inside the pipes. This can create a ‘shock’ that makes a loud noise. Since there are many possible causes, it’s best to call a plumber.

A Stinky Drain

A slight smell is normal, but a persistent foul odor coming through the drain may indicate a drain blockage or a sewer line break.

An Increase in Your Water Bill

If the cost of your water bill has suddenly increased, it may mean that you have a water leak in your plumbing system. Call a professional plumber to investigate.

Learn more about when to call a plumber here.

There’s no need to call a plumber for most minor leaks and clogs. Moreover, small plumbing problems are often easy to fix and will save you time and money. If you have any DIY plumbing hacks or tips, let us know in the comments below!