Plumbing issues never seem to happen at a convenient time—but that doesn’t mean you need to panic or call a professional for every little leak. Many common plumbing problems can be handled with a few basic tools and a bit of knowledge. This guide will walk you through how to fix small plumbing repairs at home and help you recognize when it’s time to call in a pro.
Leaky faucets: how to stop the drip
That constant drip-drip sound isn’t just annoying—it can waste gallons of water over time. Most faucet leaks are caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or cartridges. To fix it:
- Turn off the water supply to the sink.
- Remove the handle and identify the type of faucet (compression, cartridge, ball, or ceramic disk).
- Replace the faulty part with a matching component.
- Reassemble and test for leaks.
This is one of the most manageable plumbing repairs for DIYers, especially with plenty of online tutorials available.
Clogged drains: how to clear a backup
Hair, soap scum, and food particles are frequent culprits behind slow or clogged drains. For a quick fix:
- Use a plunger for sinks or tubs—create a tight seal and plunge vigorously.
- Try a drain snake or plastic zip tool to pull out debris.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage pipes. Instead, use a mix of baking soda and vinegar followed by boiling water.
If you’re still dealing with standing water or repeated clogs, it may be a deeper blockage that requires a professional plumbing repair.
Running toilet: how to fix it fast
If your toilet runs long after flushing, it’s likely a faulty flapper, fill valve, or float arm. To troubleshoot:
- Open the tank lid and check the rubber flapper—it may be warped or not sealing properly.
- If the flapper looks fine, check the fill valve and float—adjust the float height or replace the entire valve assembly if needed.
- Flush the toilet and listen—if it stops refilling, you’ve solved the problem.
Toilet repair kits are inexpensive and often solve multiple issues in one go.
Low water pressure: what to check first
If your shower or faucets have gone from strong to sputtering, start with the basics:
- Clean the aerators on faucets—they can become clogged with mineral deposits.
- Check your showerhead—soak it in vinegar overnight to dissolve buildup.
- If the issue affects your whole house, it could be a problem with the main supply valve, pressure regulator, or even a hidden leak.
Persistent low pressure is one plumbing repair best diagnosed by a professional.
Dripping pipes or fittings: what’s safe to DIY?
Small leaks under the sink or at pipe joints can often be fixed with a wrench and some plumber’s tape. Tighten fittings and apply thread seal tape to minor joints. For PVC pipes, use primer and cement to patch or replace sections.
Important: If you spot a bulging pipe, pooling water near your foundation, or any signs of water damage, shut off your home’s water and call a licensed plumber immediately.
Garbage disposal jam: how to reset or unjam
If your garbage disposal hums but won’t spin, it might be jammed. Here’s how to fix it:
- Turn off the power at the wall switch or breaker.
- Use a hex key in the bottom slot of the disposal to manually turn the impellers and dislodge debris.
- Press the reset button on the underside.
- Turn the power back on and test.
Avoid putting fibrous foods, grease, or hard objects down the disposal to prevent future jams.
When to call in a plumbing professional
While many small issues are safe to handle on your own, don’t take chances with gas lines, water heater repairs, sewage backups, or major leaks. These require specialized tools and experience—and can cause significant damage if done incorrectly. If you’re unsure how to fix a problem safely, a local plumbing expert from AskHomey can help you get it fixed quickly and correctly.
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