Plumbing repair is essential for every property. After all, a well-maintained plumbing system helps keep your home, office, or workshop safe and healthy.
From fixing cracked pipes to unclogging drains, knowing how to tackle common plumbing problems can save you time and money in the long run. Plus, it’s always good to have a few hacks up your sleeve when something goes wrong with your pipes or fixtures!
In this article, we’ll provide 9 home plumbing repair hacks that every homeowner should know. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked pipe or a major clog, these tips will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.
We’ll also talk about how you can perform basic plumbing repairs more easily and effectively at your home, and when it is best to call the professionals. Without any further ado, let’s get started!
What Exactly Are Considered As Plumbing Repairs
Commercial/home plumbing repairs can range from minor water leak repairs to major plumbing overhauls. Some of the most common plumbing repair tasks include:
- Unclogging drains
- Replacing and repairing faucets, pipes, and fixtures
- Plumbing leak repairs (pipes, fixtures, or drains)
- Installing new plumbing systems (indoor or outdoor)
- Identifying and solving plumbing issues ( low water pressure, bathtub drain leaking)
Common Household Plumbing Issues
The most common plumbing issues that homeowners face are leaks. A variety of factors, such as old pipes or fixtures, bad connections, and clogs in the drain line can cause leaks.
Here are some of the most common plumbing issues you might need to face on a regular basis.
Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
A leaky faucet is usually caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals. This is one of the most common issues in US households and the reason bathroom/kitchen plumbing repairs are so common here.
To stop the dripping, you’ll need to replace the worn-out parts. Alternatively, you can just tighten the packing nut in order to stop any leaks from around the handle.
If your faucet is leaking from the spout, the problem may be a defective washer or gasket. You’ll need to remove the faucet and replace these parts.
Running Toilets
A running toilet can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a defective flapper or fill valve. In most cases, you’ll have to replace these parts in order to stop the leak.
Alternatively, you can adjust the water level in the tank in order to reduce how often your toilet is running.
It’s important to watch what you are flushing out of the toilet as they can clog the toilet very easily. Most homeowners neglect this, and end up in need of drain unclogging/bathroom sink replacement services at the most inconvenient time. (We all have been there!)
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are another common plumbing problem that can be easily fixed at home. The first step is to identify what’s causing the clog. If it’s a simple blockage, you can unclog the drain using a plunger or an auger.
Alternatively, you can use a chemical cleaner to break up any grease or debris that may be causing the clog. Professional plumbing services also include major/minor drain unclogging at both residential and commercial levels.
Low Water Pressure
A variety of factors, such as old pipes or an undersized main line can cause low water pressure. If you’re dealing with low water pressure, the first step is to check for any blockages in the pipes. You may also need to adjust the water valve in order to increase the flow rate.
9 Plumbing Repair Hacks Every Homeowner Should Know
Now that you have a clear idea about the most common household plumbing issues, let’s move on to the plumbing repair hacks every homeowner should know.
Here are our top 9 picks for the easiest and most efficient home plumbing repair hacks:
Hack #1: Garbage Disposal 101
Hack #2: Flush Out Invisible Leaks
Hack #3: Metal Hanger to the Rescue
Hack #4: Plunge That Sink
Hack #5: That Freaky Leaky Faucet
Hack #6: Strategic Investments
Hack #7: WeatherProof Your Plumbing System
Hack #8: Learn How to Repair Leaking Pipe Yourself
Hack #9: Don’t Let Low Water Pressure Pressurize You
Now, let’s explore them one by one.
Hack #1: Garbage Disposal 101
If your garbage disposal is clogged, you can use a wrench to manually unclog it. Start by turning off the power and then inserting the wrench into the drain opening at the bottom of the unit. Then, rotate it in both directions until any debris has been cleared away.
Also, watch what you throw down your garbage disposal. Hard items like bones or fruit pits should be avoided, as they can easily clog the drain.
Here are some other items you should never put down your garbage disposal to avoid costly kitchen plumbing repairs down the line.
- Rice, Pasta, & Breadcrumbs
- Fruit Pits or Beans
- Grease, Oil, or Fat
- Potato Peels & Other Starchy Foods
- Coffee Grounds
- Eggshells or Bones
- Glass, Metal & Plastic Items
- Fibrous Foods (e.g. Celery, Sprouts)
- Expired Food
Hack #2: Flush Out Invisible Leaks
Want to know the culprit behind the massive water bill last month, 7 out of 10 times it’s because there is an invisible leak dripping both resources and your money away.
Make sure to check for leaking pipes or faucets regularly in order to avoid potential home damage caused by water seepage. You can do this by adding a few drops of food dye or oil to the pipes and then exploring where it ends.
There is another way to locate an invisible leak, if you have access to the water supply controls. Turn off all the fixtures in your house and take a reading of the water pressure. Make sure no one uses water for about an hour before checking again.
If the meter has moved, then there is an unseen leak somewhere in your home, and you need to call in plumbing Professionals for possible plumbing leak repairs.
Hack #3: Metal Hanger to the Rescue
If you have a clogged drain, you can use a metal hanger to dislodge the blockage. Simply straighten out the hanger and bend one end into a hook. Then, insert it into the drain and try to snag any debris that may be causing the clog.
Yes, it’s that easy! However, the process can get kinda messy; it’s important to use protective wearables.
Hack #4: Plunge That Sink
If you have a clogged sink, try pouring boiling water and baking soda down the drain. This natural remedy can help to loosen any blockages in the pipes.
Alternatively, you can use a plunger to force the clog out of the way. Remember, harsh chemicals should only be used as a last resort, or by a professional plumber.
Hack #5: That Freaky Leaky Faucet
This is one of the most annoying plumbing problems that can turn into a total nightmare. It’s so menial that people don’t usually pay attention to it and leave it be, only to wake up late at night to that dripping noise!
You can easily fix a leaking faucet by replacing the washer or the O-ring. To do this, turn off the water supply and then unscrew the faucet from the sink.
Once open, identify what needs replacing and purchase the appropriate parts. You can usually find replacement parts at your local hardware store.
Replacing the washer is easy. Just get a socket wrench and loosen the fitting, slip the new washer in place and put everything back together.
Hack #6: Strategic Investments
Investing in good quality home plumbing equipment, home/commercial plumbing insurance plans, and hiring capable plumbers to do the job right, will save you a lot of money in the long run.
For example, investing in water filters and water softeners can reduce repair costs as well as enhance the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures. It also helps maintain hygiene levels and make sure that your family is drinking safe, potable water.
Similarly, buying a plumbing insurance plan will be great investment since they cover most of the expenses related to repairing or replacing pipes, fixtures, and more.
Having a reliable plumber on your speed dial is also essential in order to save time and money in case of emergency situations. Just make sure you get the right person for the job!
Hack #7: WeatherProof Your Plumbing System
The next on our list is a plumbing leak repair hack. Make sure to weatherproof your plumbing system before the cold winter season arrives. This will help prevent frozen pipes and other plumbing issues that occur due to severe weather conditions.
It is also important to insulate exposed pipes in areas such as attics, garages or outside walls. Additionally, make sure all outdoor faucets are properly sealed with tape to prevent cold air from seeping in.
If you live in an area that gets heavy snowfall, then it is recommended to get snow guards installed on your roof. This will ensure that the snow does not block or freeze the downspouts and gutters, which can lead to major plumbing issues.
Hack #8: Learn How to Repair Leaking Pipe Yourself
It is not always necessary to call a plumber when you have a leaking pipe. If the problem is minor and confined to one area, then you can try fixing it yourself with some simple tools and materials.
Start by shutting off the main water supply and draining out any excess water in the system. Then, locate where the leak is and take the appropriate steps to fix it. These could include patching, tightening bolts, and replacing washers or gaskets.
If you are unsure of the process, here’s a video guide for you.
These are just some of the many hacks you can use to make sure your home has a healthy plumbing system. Remember, preventive measures are always better than dealing with costly repairs in the future.
Hack #9: Don’t Let Low Water Pressure Pressurize You
If you are dealing with low water pressure, it could be caused by a few things. To determine if there is an issue with your plumbing system, check for clogs and blockages in the pipes.
If nothing turns up, inspect the main water supply shut-off valve located near the meter or outside of your home. Oftentimes, this valve is simply not fully open. Make sure it is completely open and if this doesn’t solve the problem, contact a professional plumber.
Another possibility is that there could be a leak in your water line. To determine if this is the issue, inspect your home for any damp spots or water stains on walls and ceilings. If you find any of these, then it’s time to call in the professionals!
Once they have identified the source of the problem, they can fix it and restore your water pressure. Remember to check for leaks regularly to ensure nothing is slipping through and causing damage. This will save you from costly repairs down the road!
DIY Vs. Professional Plumbing Repair: Which Way to Go
When it comes to plumbing repair, many homeowners are faced with the decision of whether to attempt a DIY job or hire a professional plumber. The truth is that there are advantages and disadvantages to both options.
For simple repairs like replacing washers on faucets or fixing clogged drains, DIY methods can effectively complete the job quickly and inexpensively.
However, complex plumbing tasks such as installing entirely new plumbing systems or bathtub drain leak repairs should always be left to professionals with the experience and expertise necessary to do so safely.
Professionals also have access to more advanced tools that may be necessary for certain projects, making them better suited for tackling complex jobs.
Limitations of DIY Plumbing Repair
Although DIY plumbing repair can save you money and time, it is important to note that there are some limitations to this approach.
First, it may be difficult for you as a homeowner to diagnose the exact cause of your particular problem without professional experience.
Not being able to identify the issue, and properly attempting a DIY plumbing job could make the problem worse or lead to further damage.
Additionally, if something goes wrong during your repairs, you may have to pay for costly professional repairs to fix any mistakes. This can end up costing more than hiring a plumber from the start would have cost in the first place!
In any case, whatever your home plumbing needs may be, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of DIY plumbing versus professional plumbing repair before making a final decision.
Doing some research before you start your project can also help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that the job is done right the first time.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While DIY plumbing can be a great way to save money, there are some situations where you may want to consider calling in a professional plumber. These include:
- To deal with complex or advanced plumbing repairs, such as replacing pipes or installing new fixtures.
- If you have an older plumbing system that could require special expertise to repair properly.
- There is a potential for major water damage if the repair goes wrong.
- You are dealing with gas lines, which should only be handled by a professional due to the danger of explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Your plumbing issue is persistent and hasn’t been resolved after multiple DIY attempts.
- You do not have the necessary tools or knowledge to complete the job safely on your own.
- You are not comfortable with performing the repairs yourself and would rather hire a professional for peace of mind.
Professional Office/Home Plumbing Repair in Toronto
Professional plumbers are experienced and knowledgeable, offering a wide range of plumbing repair services to ensure that your home’s plumbing system is running smoothly and efficiently.
Whether you’re dealing with clogged drains, leaky pipes, or any other kind of plumbing issue, skilled technicians can quickly identify the root cause of the problem and provide effective solutions for restoring your home’s plumbing to its optimal condition.
They also have access to specialized tools and equipment that may be necessary for certain projects, making them the ideal choice for completing complex repairs correctly.
If you find yourself in need of professional plumbing repair services in Toronto, Citizen Plumbing can provide the help you seek. With over 25 years of experience in providing professional plumbing services to the community, we are well equipped to handle any kind of plumbing issues you might face.
We are a premier plumbing service provider that also offers services like pool installation, drain unclogging service, home renovation plumbing, duct & vent cleaning, and many more. With a proven track record, and lots of content clients, Citizen Plumbing can be the best “24 hour plumber Toronto” you need!
Plumbing Repair Cost in Toronto
The cost of plumbing repair in Toronto can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of the issue. Minor repairs, such as unclogging a sink or minor water leak repair may only require an hour or two of work and will typically range between $80 – $150.
More complex projects, such as bathroom sink replacement, new fixture installation, or bathtub drain leak repair may require several hours of work and could cost anywhere from $250 – $5000.
In any case, it’s important to get a cost estimate from your plumber before starting the job so that you know what to expect. This will also help you budget accordingly and avoid any unnecessary surprises down the line.
Pro Tips on Preventing Plumbing Issues
Preventing plumbing issues in your home is always better than dealing with them after they occur. To help keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, here are a few pro tips:
- Regularly inspect exposed pipes for any signs of leaks or damage.
- Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet.
- Never pour grease or oils down drains, as these can cause clogs and build-ups over time.
- Invest in a strain catcher for showers and bathtubs to prevent hair from building up in the drainpipe.
- Install water filters on all faucets to catch sediment and debris before it enters the pipes.
- Check if the time of your bathtub drain leaking gets slower, as that can indicate an impending clog.
- Perform regular maintenance on your water heater to ensure it is working properly and efficiently.
- Make sure all toilets are fitted with dual flush valves to reduce water usage.
Epilogue
And with that, we’re at the end of our today’s guide. I hope the plumbing repair hacks mentioned here will come in handy in your hours of need. Through this guide, we’ve provided a comprehensive set of actions you can take to minimize plumbing issues in your home or property.
Prevention is better than cure — And we can’t stress this enough. Be careful about and take care of your plumbing system and without it, your modern lifestyle would crumble down.
While it’s handy to learn a few DIY tricks and apply them whenever needed, it’s also important to know when to seek professional help. Failing to do so may end up costing you more than you intended to save. Taking small steps at the right time can save you from massive disappointments in the future.
If you are looking for professional help regarding any kind of plumbing repairs, Feel free to contact Citizen Plumbing. We will be happy to help in maintaining or restoring your property in a safe and reliable way. Contact us today for a free estimation!
Thank you for reading this far, and I wish you all a great weekend ahead.