The Plumber’s Apprentice: A Homeowner’s Guide to Plumbing Maintenance and Repair
Ever heard that drip-drip-drip sound in the middle of the night? Or maybe you’ve been faced with a stubbornly slow drain? Plumbing issues can range from minor annoyances to major disasters. While it’s always wise to call a professional for complex jobs, a little knowledge about basic plumbing maintenance and repair can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
Think of this as your “Plumbing 101.” We’ll walk you through essential maintenance practices and common repair tips to keep your home’s waterworks running smoothly.
Part 1: Proactive Maintenance – An Ounce of Prevention
The golden rule of home maintenance: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular visual check-ups can prevent small problems from turning into costly emergencies. Look for corrosion on piping. See any water stains on the walls or ceilings? Notice any drips or puddles?
1. Know Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
This is your first line of defense in a plumbing emergency. Make sure everyone knows where it is and how to turn it off. It’s usually located in a basement or a utility closet. Practice turning it off and on so you’re not fumbling in a panic when a pipe bursts. If the valve is difficult to close, it may be time to replace it. PDM can help.
2. Watch for Leaks
Don’t just listen for drips. Look for signs of water damage like discolored walls, peeling paint, or a musty smell. Check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. A small leak can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage over time.
3. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
The toilet and kitchen sink are not garbage cans. Grease, coffee grounds, hair, and “flushable” wipes are common culprits for clogs. Install drain screens to catch hair and food particles, and dispose of grease in a jar or can, not down the drain. Learn how to avoid a clogged drain.
4. Inspect Hoses and Connections
Did you know that bursting washing machine hoses are a top 10 insurance claim?
Check the hoses on your washing machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator’s ice maker. Look for bulges, cracks, or leaks. Learn how often to replace washing machine hoses.
5. Flush Your Water Heater
Sediment can build up at the bottom of your water heater, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Flushing the tank once a year removes this buildup. The process is straightforward, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Learn how to flush a water heater.
6. Inspect Your Sump Pump, Especially After Heavy Rains
If your sump pump fails during a rainstorm, hundreds of gallons of water can enter your basement in minutes.
- Remove all debris from the bottom of the pit and the pump inlet screen.
- Remove all debris floating in the water.
- Remove all debris from the float switch.
- Fill the pit with water. Make sure the pump turns on at the intended level.
- While the pump is running:
- Is the pump evacuating water at a good pace?
- Is a stream of water escaping from the air bleed hole? If not, clear the hole of any deposits or debris.
- Does the float switch move freely (#1 cause of pump failure).
- Battery sump pump, check battery for charge, corrosion. If you need to silence the alarm for 24 hours, push the Test Reset Button for 5 seconds.
7. Garbage Disposal
Run cold water using the garbage disposal to help solidify grease and move particles smoothly.
Avoid putting hard items like bones or fibrous foods like celery into the
disposal, as they can damage the blades. Avoid adding coffee grounds, noodles, fruit pits, and even potato peels.
8. Check Fire, Security Devices
- Test smoke and deadly carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers’ expiration dates.
- Ready for a power outage?
7. Home Insurance Up To Date?
Business and homeowners’ insurance can provide coverage against unexpected accidents or other unforeseen events. Learn how you are protected for flooding from broken pipes or water appliances (leaking water heater, dishwasher, washing machine), mold, sump pump failure, frozen piping that bursts, dryer vent fire, HVAC hail damage, and more.
Part 2: Common DIY Plumbing Repairs – Your Toolbox Essentials
Armed with a few basic tools, you can tackle many common plumbing problems.
1. The Clogged Drain: A Plunger and a Snake
- The Plunger: For a sink or shower drain, fill the basin with a few inches of water. Place the plunger over the drain and create a tight seal. Plunge with a forceful up-and-down motion for about 30 seconds.
- The Drain Snake (or Auger): If the plunger doesn’t work, a drain snake can reach deeper into the pipe to pull out the clog. Insert the snake into the drain, turning the handle to feed it down the pipe until you hit resistance. Turn the handle to hook the clog and pull it out. You can buy one at a hardware store.
2. The Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet is often a sign of a worn-out washer or O-ring. Taking photos can help you put everything back together.
- Turn Off the Water: Shut off the water supply to the faucet (usually with the valves under the sink).
- Disassemble the Faucet: Use a screwdriver to remove the handle and expose the internal components.
- Replace the Part: Remove the old washer or O-ring and replace it with a new one of the same size.
- Reassemble: Put the faucet back together and turn the water back on.
3. The Running Toilet
That constant running water sound is not only annoying, it’s also wasting water.
- Check the Flapper: The most common cause is a faulty flapper (can last 3-5 years) that isn’t creating a proper seal. A new flapper is a cheap and easy fix.
- Adjust the Float: The float arm controls the water level. If it’s set too high, water will continuously flow into the overflow tube. Adjust the float arm so the water level is about an inch below the overflow tube.
- Inspect the Fill Valve: If the other fixes don’t work, the fill valve itself might be the issue and may need to be replaced.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Knowing your limits is just as important as knowing how to do a repair. You should always call a licensed plumber for:
- Major leaks or burst pipes: These require immediate, professional attention.
- No water or low water pressure: This can indicate a serious problem with your main water line.
- Sewer line issues: This includes foul odors, multiple clogged drains, or water backing up into your sinks and toilets.
- Water heater problems beyond simple flushing.
- Anything that involves cutting or soldering pipes.
- Water quality concerns: From hard water issues to chlorine concerns to safe drinking water, PDM can help.
Taking a proactive approach to your home’s plumbing will save you from major headaches down the road. By performing regular maintenance and learning a few simple repairs, you’ll be on your way to becoming a true plumbing pro!
PDM stands against cutting corners when it comes to comfort. Since 1885, PDM has been there for trusted advice and service. We are licensed, bonded, and insured with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Call [phone_link] or contact PDM for home maintenance in Joliet, New Lenox, Frankfort, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Lockport, Romeoville, Homer Glen, and SW Chicago Suburbs
