Here’s the simple truth: plumbing problems can actually be easier to deal with than you might expect. Here are the most frequently asked plumbing questions—the answers may surprise you!
How do I deal with a leaking faucet or tap?
Dripping faucets are almost always caused by two things:
Worn or damaged washers or gaskets. These rubber or silicone-based rings are intended to form a watertight seal on your faucets. They wear out over time and with use, especially on hot water taps. They aren’t too complicated to replace, though it may be best to call a plumber. Chances are a long-time leak has caused the valve seat to become corroded or worn.
Worn ceramic plates. If your tap is a ceramic disc or canister tap, it uses ceramic plates instead of rubber or silicone washers. This is a more complex job that requires a professional!
What do I do if my drains won’t unclog?
So you’ve been plunging the toilet, sink, or bathtub and it won’t go down? You’ve very likely got an object or a clump built up in the drains that is clogging up the pipe. Commercial drain cleaners are the next step after a plunger. If that doesn’t deal with the problem, it’s time to call in a plumber to snake the pipe and find the obstruction.
What’s causing my low water pressure?
This isn’t a problem limited to your house, but it’s very likely caused by low water pressure from the municipal water supply. However, check your main line to make sure there are no cracks or leaks allowing water to flow out before it reaches your home.
Note: If you have a filtration system, it could be filled with dissolved minerals that reduce its flow.
How do I fix a leaking pipe?
Most leaks occur in the joints of your pipes (unless there is direct impact damage to the pipe itself). You can use commercial joint fillers to deal with the leak, but that’s only a temporary solution. You’d do well to call in a professional plumber to fix the leaking pipe with as little mess as possible.
What do I do when my toilet doesn’t stop running?
Nine times out of ten, the problem is simple:
The flapper valve is leaking, usually the result of a worn gasket or the valve itself. Replacing the valve should stop the problem.
The chain is the wrong length. Too short, and it stops the flapper valve from closing. Too long, and it could get sucked into the pipe and interfere with the watertight seal. Adjust the chain so it’s just the right length.
If you’ve done both of these things and the toilet is still leaking, it could be the result of the float being imbalanced, the fill tube is loose, or there is sediment built up in your toilet that is affecting the flush. Call Fords Plumbing and Heating to help pinpoint and deal with the problem!
