Plumbing Issues 101: Dealing with the Basics

You rarely give your home’s plumbing system a second thought. When you hit the lever on the toilet, you expect it to flush. The same goes for the shower. Turning on the hot or cold water should simply work, and most often, it does. Unfortunately, there are those rare occurrences where your plumbing system is on the fritz. It can feel like a personal attack. The headache and stress of not being able to cook, clean, or shower after a long day is terrible. As a homeowner, you should know the plumbing basics – how to handle minor leaks or clogs, for example. With that in mind, we’re here to explain the top home plumbing issues.

Bathroom Plumbing Issues

Your bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the entire household. With so many plumbing connections, it’s a wonder something doesn’t go wrong more often. You’re in luck, though, because an experienced plumber is a phone call away, should anything go drastically wrong. For now though, let us examine a few common plumbing issues in the bathroom and how to properly address them.

  • Sink Clogs – A clogged sink drain is a relatively common occurrence. Most often, a clog in the sink is due to soap scum or debris – such as hair – that has formed a blockage somewhere down the drain. To handle a sink clog, you only need a plunger. The pressure caused by the plunger is typically enough to remove the clog.
  • Low Water Pressure – Low water pressure while trying to shower is a hassle. If the water pressure remains low when you switch from cold to hot, then it’s the aerator causing a problem. Most likely, a mineral deposit has formed in the aerator. To fix the issue, remove the aerator and soak it in vinegar overnight. Clean the piece, then reattach.
  • Dripping Faucets – That sound, that terrible sound! The sound of a dripping faucet can cause quite the headache to any homeowner. The most common cause of dripping is due to a worn-out washer or seal. These are easily replaced with common plumbing tools and parts from a plumbing supply store.

Plumbing Tips

As a homeowner, you must know how to properly handle your plumbing system in the event of a minor, or sometimes major, issue. Here’s a few common tips to make life easier:

  • Always know where your water main is located in case of an emergency.
  • Know where the main sewer line clean-out is located for routine maintenance, or to resolve blockages.
  • Never block the water supply valves or sewer clean-out.
  • You should know what type of seals your taps have.
  • Performing routine maintenance and cleaning can extend the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures.
  • Preventing a clogged toilet is as simple as knowing what to flush, and what not to.

When life hands you plumbing issues, call Rick’s Plumbing. We provide unbeatable plumbing repairs, installations, and maintenance for homeowners like yourself. Schedule service by calling 203-874-6629. With just one call, you can secure the plumbing service you need at any hour.

203-457-3201