Plumbing system keeps the home running smoothly and since the system is used extensively, it is not surprising that suddenly something might go wrong with the plumbing without notice. Therefore in order to cope with this sudden emergency, it would be helpful if you have some knowledge of plumbing issues and how to counter it in order to minimize the probable damages.
Whether you repair or replace, any plumbing job entails shutting off the water supply to the affected area. For this, you will have to know the location of the shut-off valve. When you construct a new home or move into one, you should make it a point to know where the shut off valve of the water line is located. If the water is being supplied by a utility company then the shut-off valve will be located near the water meter and if your home is using a well for water supply then the shut-off valve will be located near the well house. So you should know where the water shut off valve is located.
You suddenly discover that hot water is leaking off the faucet or the supply line. Cut off the water supply from the affected area, if you don’t then all the hot water from the tank will drain off. But before you do so, cut off the power supply to the water heater. If the water heaters are left on and the water drains out the heating elements will continue to burn dry leading to its burn out. If this happens, you will be left with no option but to replace the water heater. Thus shutting off the power connection the moment you discover hot water leak will save you from incurring a huge expense on replacing the water heater
The toilet has clogged and it is a problem that crops up often as we tend to flush down debris through the toilet, which should not be done.
If you discover the problem in the initial stage you can prevent overflow. If you find the toilet’s water about to overflow, just turn on the water of the nearest faucet so that water flow is diverted in order to slow down the water flow to the toilet.
The toilet has clogged and it is a problem that crops up often as we tend to flush down debris through the toilet, which should not be done. If you discover the problem in the initial stage you can prevent overflow. If you find the toilet’s water about to overflow, just turn on the water of the nearest faucet so that water flow is diverted in order to slow down the water flow to the toilet. The water supply line to the toilet tank should be cut off before you start unclogging the toilet as this will stop water from flooding the floor.
In order to unclog the toilet, you will require a tool called flange plunger. Plunger is made of rubber in the shape of an inverted bowl, black in color. You have to insert the plunger into the toilet bowl sealing its opening. After a vacuum is formed pump the plunger several times in quick succession and pull out the plunger from the toilet suddenly. If it does not work the first time, try again and it may do the trick.
First and foremost, maintain and clean drains regularly; this way one can also save on the plumbing cost.
Always hire plumbers from a reputed agency and check his license before he starts with the job.
Always take estimation of the charges prior to the job.
It is better to replace an old water-guzzling toilet with a new one rather than repairing it; this will not only save you the hassle of repairs but also contribute to the environment by saving water.
In case of clogged drains you should refrain from continuously passing water through the drain and also not use chemical cleaners always; this might damage the pipes causing more problems. Use biodegradable and eco-friendly drain cleaners approved by the government instead of concentrated acids.
Maintaining a water heater is very important. The thermostat of the heater must be constantly checked. Cleaning the accumulated sediment or mineral salts inside the heater on a regular basis ensures the efficient functioning of water heaters.
Never ignore a leak from the water heater as it can be hazardous.
Sink leakage is the most common and irritating problem. This usually occurs due to loose fittings, old and worn-out gaskets and erosion of pipes. In such a case it is best to call in professional help.
Avoid flushing foreign objects like plastic paper, etc. into the toilet. It is often seen that these cause clogging of the water closet.
There are a number of low-cost plumbing products which come handy in case of a leak or a crack. One can apply putty to close the crack and temporarily postpone replacement of the fixture.