Plumbing problems can be frustrating, especially when they occur unexpectedly. And calling a plumber for every minor issue can be a bit expensive. That’s why DIY home repair is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking to solve Plumbing problems themselves.

In this tutorial guide, we’ll be sharing five easy DIY fixes that can save you a lot of money while solving simple plumbing issues.

We’ll be sharing the same exact solutions that we here at Western Rooter & Plumbing – a family-owned plumbing company in San Gabriel Valley that has been providing excellent plumbing services for over 40 years – have been using for years.

So, let’s get started.

Slow Drainage Fix:

Dealing with a slow-draining sink can be incredibly frustrating and time-consuming.

The constant waiting for the water to slowly disappear down the drain can test even the most patient person’s tolerance. It’s one of those minor inconveniences that can disrupt your daily routine and make simple tasks like washing dishes or brushing your teeth feel like a never-ending chore.

What Causes Slow Drains?

When it comes to slow drains, there are a few common culprits that can be responsible for this frustrating issue. Accumulated hair, soap scum, and food debris are just a few examples of what can clog up your pipes and lead to slow drainage. It’s important to address these issues promptly to ensure smooth and efficient water flow in your household plumbing system.

• Buildup of hair, soap residue, food particles, and other debris in the pipes (which is one of the most common causes.)
• Obstruction in the drain like a toy or utensil.
• A partial blockage created by tree root growth.
• Corrosion or buildup in the pipes.

How to Fix a Slow Drain?

The good news is that fixing a slow drain isn’t complicated or expensive and can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills. Here are some simple steps you can take to fix a slow drain:

• Start by pouring boiling water down the drain to start the water flow.
• Use a plunger to dislodge any blockages or buildup.
• Make sure that all drainage holes are unclogged and clear of debris.
• Snake out any partial blockages with an auger or plumbing snake.

DIY Solution Not Working?

Don’t worry – you can always call Western Rooter! Our team of experienced plumbers can quickly and efficiently diagnose and fix any plumbing issue you may have. We are dedicated to providing top-notch customer service and will make sure that all your plumbing needs are taken care of in a timely manner.

Running Toilet Fix:

A running Toilet is a frequently encountered plumbing issue that can be quite bothersome. It typically occurs when the flapper valve, responsible for controlling the water flow, isn’t seated properly, resulting in a continuous leakage and wastage of water.

What Causes a Running Toilet?

A Running Toilet is usually caused by either a worn-out flapper valve, a faulty lift chain, or incorrect water levels in the tank.

• Worn out or damaged flapper valve: Over time, the rubber of the flapper valve can deteriorate and become too weak to prevent water from flowing into the bowl.
• Faulty lift chain: If the flapper valve is seated properly but the toilet continues running, it could be due to an incorrectly adjusted water level in the tank.
• Incorrect water levels in the tank: The float controls the amount of water that remains in your tank and if it’s not set up correctly, it can cause a running toilet.

How to Fix a Running Toilet?

Fortunately, fixing a running toilet isn’t complicated or difficult and can be tackled with relative ease. Here are some simple steps you can take to fix a running toilet:

• Check the flapper valve for any damage or wear and tear that could be impeding proper water flow.
• Make sure that the lift chain is adjusted correctly and is not getting caught on any part of the mechanism.
• Adjust the float to make sure that the water levels are set correctly.
• If needed, replace all parts by ordering replacement ones from your local store or online.

Leaking Faucet Fix:

Leaking faucets not only waste water but can also lead to significantly higher water bills if the problem persists.

The most common cause of a dripping faucet is a worn or damaged washer, which can result from regular usage over time. To address this issue, a simple fix involves turning off the water supply to the faucet, removing the handle, and replacing the damaged washer with a new one.

By taking these steps, you can effectively resolve the leak and prevent further water wastage, ensuring a more sustainable and cost-effective solution in the long run.

If the leak continues, you may need to replace the entire faucet.

Replacing A Leaky Faucet

Luckily, replacing a faucet is pretty easy and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s what you need to do:

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Unscrew the existing faucet and detach it from the sink.
• Clean up any debris left behind by the old faucet.
• Install the new faucet unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.

DIY Solution Not Working?

Sometimes, a leaking faucet requires more extensive repairs that may be too difficult for a novice DIYer to carry out. In such cases, you can always call Western Rooter! Our team of experienced plumbers are ready to help with any plumbing issue you may have – from fixing leaky faucets and clogged drains to installing new fixtures and pipes.

Hot Water Heater Fix:

A malfunctioning hot water heater can be a significant inconvenience, and most homeowners often feel intimidated by tackling this kind of plumbing issue. But, fret not! With a little bit of know-how and the right tools, you can easily fix a hot water heater in no time.

What Causes Hot Water Heater Issues?

The most common issue with hot water heaters is sediment buildup, which can cause your device to work inefficiently and even break down completely. Here is a list of all of the potential culprits that can cause a malfunctioning hot water heater:

• Temperature and pressure relief valve issues.
• Sediment buildup in the tank.
• A faulty thermostat.
• Malfunctioning heating element or dip tube.
• Leaking pipes or connections.

How to Fix a Hot Water Heater?

Luckily, you don’t need to be a professional plumber or have extensive plumbing knowledge to fix a hot water heater. All you need are the right tools and some basic DIY skills – here’s what you should do:

• Start by draining the tank and removing any sediment buildup.
• Clean out all pipes and connections, including the TPR valve.
• Replace any faulty or damaged parts, like the heating element and dip tube.
• Adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature setting.
• Refill the tank with cold water and re-attach all pipes and connections.

DIY Solution Not Working?

If you’re finding it difficult to fix your hot water heater on your own, don’t worry – you can always call Western Rooter!

Our team of experienced plumbers have the expertise and knowledge needed to quickly diagnose and fix any hot water heater issue. We are dedicated to providing top-notch customer service and will make sure that all your plumbing needs are taken care of in a timely manner.

Clogged Toilet Fix:

A clogged toilet is probably the most frightening plumbing issue of them all. Not only can it cause inconvenience and potential embarrassment in social situations, but it can also lead to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions if left unaddressed.

However, the good news is that dealing with a clogged toilet is relatively simple and can be resolved with a few easy steps.

What Causes Clogged Toilets?

Most clogs are caused by the accumulation of too much toilet paper in the bowl or an object accidentally getting flushed down the toilet.

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet?

Here’s what you need to do:

• If you have time (and you’re in the comfort of your own home!) you should start by gathering some boiling water. If you don’t have boiling water at the ready, continue without it, however it does make this process more effective.
• Next, get a plunger and some dish soap.
• Pour the boiling water into the bowl and then add some dish soap.
• Place the plunger over the drain hole and use firm but gentle pressure to push down on it several times.
• If that doesn’t work, you can try using an auger or plumber’s snake.

DIY Solution Not Working?

If your attempts at unclogging the toilet are unsuccessful, it’s time to call in the professionals! Western Rooter has years of experience dealing with clogged toilets and our team of plumbers will be able to quickly identify and fix the issue.

Conclusion:

These are just five of the many common plumbing problems that homeowners can fix themselves. From leaky faucets to clogged drains, tackling these issues can save you time and money.

However, if you’re facing more complex problems or feeling uncertain about how to proceed, it’s always a wise choice to seek the expertise of a professional plumber.

Western Rooter & Plumbing is a trusted name in the industry, known for our team of experienced and knowledgeable plumbers who are dedicated to providing excellent plumbing services at affordable prices. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major installation, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today for a free quote and let us take care of all your plumbing needs!