Photo by Rudy and Peter Skitterians

Plumbing problems are an annoying part of owning a home. Some of those problems may be due to aging and the regular wear and tear that comes with it (e.g. leaky pipes). In other cases, the root of the problem can be because of how you use your system and how you maintain it (e.g. blocked drainage). Whatever the cause, you can take steps to prepare yourself before they occur, especially if you have some professional tips. Here are five common plumbing problems you can encounter at home, and some basic remedies to help keep it under control.

1. Blocked Drains

Blocked drains, whether for the sink or shower, can be a major problem; until you fix them, they’re useless for removing water. The blockage is often caused by foreign objects building up in the pipes (for example, hair, soap, or food residue). Dealing with the blockage can be a simple task. Use a plunger first to attempt to dislodge whatever’s clogged the pipes. In case of a more stubborn blockage, use a plumber’s snake to reach down the drain and clear the way.

2. Leaky Faucets

Photo by Nithin Pa

Dripping faucets are an annoyance to many homeowners; however, they can represent a more serious problem if left alone. In many cases, the problem is caused by damage to the internal washer. Open the faucet and replace the washer as soon as you discover the drip to minimize the harm it can cause, particularly to your water bill.

3. Clogged Toilets

Photo by Giorgio Trovato

Like drains, toilets can become clogged with foreign material and refuse to drain, which can present a problem when anyone needs to use the facilities. Use a plunger to try dislodging the blockage first. If that doesn’t work, switch to a plumber’s snake to reach down the drain and dislodge it that way. Clogged toilets may be annoying, but they’re also easy to spot. Take steps as soon as you discover the problem to avoid water damage to the area surrounding the toilet.

4. Low Water Pressure
   
   Low water pressure can present a problem when you need higher pressures for showering and doing the dishes. If the pressure is especially low, check the water pressure at each fixture and pay attention if the water flows more easily in some places than others. Use this method to help you pinpoint the source of the problem and solve it more easily. In other cases, the water pressure can be affected by buildup on the aerators blocking the water from flowing. In that case, soak the aerator in vinegar to remove the deposits on the faucet and restore the flow.

5. Leaky Hose Bibbs

The average hose bibb isn’t built to last multiple seasons without protection. As the seasons change, the temperature changes can cause damage and cracking, which can present problems when you need to use an external faucet. You can circumvent the problem by investing in a frost-proof hose bibb to protect it against the elements.

These tips have other uses than helping out in case you need an emergency plumbing service in Toronto; you can also use them to stay on top of your regular maintenance and keep your plumbing working smoothly for much longer. Think of it as a great way to minimize inconvenience and extend your system’s lifespan.