Plumbing problems are often complicated and require the expertise of an experienced professional. However, there are some problems that are easier to repair than others. Learn what quick and easy plumbing fixes you can do, and find out when you need to call the plumber.
Caulking Your Tub or Sink
Over time, the seals around your bathroom or kitchen sink will start to deteriorate. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also cause leaks and other forms of damage. You can prevent this from happening by recaulking it. To get started, take the old caulk off with a razor blade. Then, be sure to clean up the caulk with a vacuum before recaulking it.
Using a caulk gun, create a solid line of caulk. Your line should be neat, clean, and smooth. It dries quickly, so be sure to work quickly. If you’re unhappy with it, clear the area and start over.
Changing Your Showerhead
Your old showerhead might not give you the results you want. Fortunately, replacing it is rather easy. First, you must remove the current showerhead. At times, it can be stubborn and difficult to unscrew. You might need tongue-and-groove pliers to get the job done. Once the showerhead is removed, you can screw on the new one.
Repairing a Leaky Faucet
A leaky faucet wastes water and costs you money on your monthly utility bill. Generally, a leaky faucet is caused by a problem with the spout or the base of the fixture. In either case, it’s relatively simple to repair and just requires a faucet replacement.
You can find replacement faucet parts at almost any home improvement store. However, if you have a custom faucet or a cartridge-style faucet, you may not be able to easily find replacement parts.
Before you attempt to replace the faucet, turn off the water to the area. If you’re not sure how to find the water shut-off, you should contact a plumber.
Stop a Running Toilet
You might not need to call a plumber to repair your running toilet. The simplest fix is to jiggle the handle, but this isn’t a permanent solution and only fixes the problem for the moment. To resolve the issue, you may need to replace the floater valve. Before doing so, turn off the water to the toilet.
After that, follow the instructions given in your new floater valve. Once it’s successfully installed, you shouldn’t have any more leaking. If you do, you know that it’s time to call the plumber.
Remove a Drain Clog
A clogged drain can be a major headache and prevent you from using your bathroom or kitchen. In most situations, standard drain cleaners are not the answer. They eat away at your pipes and create even more trouble for your plumbing system.
The best way to remove a drain clog is to prevent it. In your shower drain, use a hair catcher to prevent hair from clogging up the pipes. And in the kitchen, don’t place grease or fat down the sink.
When to Call a Plumber
Between 2014 and 2024, the demand for plumbers in the workforce is expected to rise by 12%. This is due to the fact that many homeowners and business owners in Los Angeles find themselves in need of plumbers.
If there’s no easy solution to your plumbing woes, you should call a plumbing firm in Los Angeles. They have the tools and experience needed to get you results.