Three Simple Plumbing Fixes You Can Do Yourself Without Calling A Plumbing Contractor

24 November 2014
 Categories: , Blog


There is a time and a place for a plumbing contractor. Did you return home to water flooding out your front door? Better call a plumber. However, a stopped-up shower drain is something you can repair yourself without the assistance of a plumber. Not only will it be cheaper, it will also give you the chance to brag about your handiness. Here are three easy plumbing fixes.

The Dreaded Clogged Toilet

There are few things in this world as panic-inducing as a clogged toilet. Thankfully this nuisance is easy to fix. Instead of openly weeping on the phone with your plumber, kneel down on the floor and cut off the water entering the toilet. This valve is usually found on the floor or attached to the wall. Hopefully you react fast enough to stop the impending overflow of nasty water. Next, grab a plunger (or run out and buy one), and give it a couple of good thrusts. The suction should unclog your toilet.

Hairy Shower Drains

A clogged shower drain can quickly turn your bathtub into a swimming pool. Firstly, unscrew the shower drain, and set it aside. Secondly, grab a wire coat hanger, and bend one end so that it forms a hook-like shape. Finally, stick the hanger into the drain and fish out all the hair and goop that is impeding the flow of water. Easy as pie.

A Leaky Water Heater

You're about to flush out the hot water heater (which you should be doing regularly!) and discover a leaky pressure release valve at the bottom. If the valve is brass, you're in luck! All you have to do is replace the corroded washer. If the valve itself is plastic, you'll need to replace the entire valve. This is a relatively simple process. As always, anytime you're repairing a hot water heater, make sure to shut off the water and drain it entirely. Do you want to temporarily fix the leak? Buy a hose-end cap, and screw it onto the bottom of the water heater. Leak stopped!

Of course, there will be circumstances in where you have no choice but to call a plumbing contractor, like from Davidson's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. The general rule of thumb is to, if you feel like the repairs are above your skill level, hire a contractor. It is important to remember to choose your plumbing contractor wisely. Make sure the plumber is licensed, and always get the agreement in writing. The last thing you want is a lackluster plumber causing even more damage. Remember, doing the aforementioned projects yourself allows plumbers to focus on the important calls. 


Share