Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet or clogged toilet, every homeowner needs to know when to wield the wrench and when to call a plumber. By incorporating plumbing 101 knowledge into your regular home care routine, you can reduce the frequency of repairs and save money by knowing when to take matters into your own hands.
Home improvement is a great way to boost your sense of self-reliance, but it’s important to know your limitations when tackling complex projects like electrical and plumbing work. Hiring a professional ensures your project is completed correctly and up to code, so you can avoid costly missteps. However, the cost of hiring a pro can add up quickly. This is why many homeowners choose to learn basic DIY skills to tackle the smaller home maintenance tasks that aren’t suited for a professional.
Tackling Toilet and Plumbing Repairs with Confidence
While the internet abounds with tutorials promising quick fixes for common plumbing problems, most of these DIY solutions are only temporary at best, leaving you to pay more in the long run and potentially worsening the original issue. To help you keep your sanity and your home in good shape, Handyman Pro has compiled the following easy tips to tackle toilet and plumbing repairs yourself with confidence.
1. Identify and Locate the Water Shut Off
In the event of an emergency, it is important to know how to shut off your home’s water supply. To do so, you will need to locate the water shut off valve, typically positioned near the wall behind your toilet. Once you have located it, turn off the water to your toilet by turning the handle clockwise.
A leaking toilet is not only an annoying nuisance, but it can waste a considerable amount of water and significantly increase your utility bills. One of the most common causes of a leaking toilet is a worn-out flapper valve or chain. To resolve this issue, open the tank and inspect both the flapper valve and chain. If the valve is damaged or worn out, you will need to replace it.
2. Clogged Drains
A major problem with a functioning plumbing system is a clogged drain or sewer line vent. To address a clogged drain, you can use a plunger or try a homemade drain cleaner with baking soda and vinegar. If you cannot dislodge a clog, it may be necessary to remove the toilet and manually clear the sewer line vent.
Investing time and effort into the maintenance of your home’s plumbing can save you thousands in the long run. By implementing the tips listed above, you can minimize the number of times you need to hire a professional for complicated home repair jobs and ensure that your plumbing is running efficiently.
A professional will also be able to offer an experienced eye to handle a wide range of other home improvement tasks. For example, drywall can rack up dings and dents quickly, especially in homes with children or pets. A seasoned handyman in Memphis can repair these blemishes to make your home look as good as new.
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