Let’s face it, we never know when that plumbing issue will strike. Most plumbing minor problems can get handled by the average do-it-yourselfer (DIY) or homeowner. Then some require the expertise of a licensed plumbing contractor. Major plumbing issues such as burst pipes, broken water heaters, slab leaks, home repipes, hydro jetting, and clogged sewer mains should only get repaired by your licensed plumber. All plumbing issues are aggravating, but below are the top most annoying plumbing issues.
Slow-moving bathroom drains
Bathroom drains start moving slowly when black slime builds up and becomes a catch-all for hair, toothpaste, hair products, soap, phlegm, and other bathroom products. Unless we all stop brushing our teeth, washing our hands, and combing our hair, this will be a constant, especially if you have teenagers using the same sink. However, this is one annoying plumbing problem that a homeowner can handle on their own.
The fastest and best way to alleviate the problem is to remove the spring clip from the pivot rod then remove your pop-up stopper. Once the stopper gets removed, the clog is usually toward the top of the drain in the form of a hairball. Next, you can use a coat hanger with a hook at the end to fish out the clog. You can also purchase a Zip-it, a long strip of plastic with barbs on it. The product works great for clearing the drain. Next, remember to clean any residue of the black slime using an old toothbrush and a cleaning solution. Finally, pour a pot of hot water down the drain.
Dripping shower head or faucet
A dripping shower head or faucet is something we can fix ourselves. A compression gasket is usually the reason for a leaking faucet.
- Simply remove the decorative cap on the faucet.
- You’ll see the screw, remove it and pull off the handle.
- Use a wrench to remove the packing nut.
- Now unscrew the stem, replace the seat washer held in place by the brass screw.
Keep in mind. You can purchase a brand new 2-handle bathroom chrome faucet for less than $30. Evaluate the repair cost, including your time if the compression gasket is bad. It’s probably an old faucet and may not be worth repairing. Here’s another piece of common sense. If you can fix a broken compression gasket, you can certainly replace the old faucet with the new one. Remember to buy a low-flow faucet with the WaterSense label. You’ll have an excellent shower experience while conserving water.
Annoying Household Leaks
The problem with household leaks is that they seem harmless, and we put off fixing that leaky faucet, toilet flapper, or outdoor spigot. However, the average household can waste about 10,000 gallons of water a year due to leaks. That’s one month of water usage for most households. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), ten percent of homes in America have water leaks, and those leaks waste 90 gallons of water per day. Toilet flappers are inexpensive and easy to replace. Replacing leaky faucets and outdoor spigots will depend on your abilities, but someone with a little more than average do-it-yourselfer skills could make the repairs.
No Hot Water, That’s Really Annoying
Our hot water only comes from one place, and that’s our water heater. Depending on the age of your water heater, most water heaters don’t need replacing for ten to twelve years. Before you call your plumbing company, check to make sure the pilot light is still on. I can’t tell you how often we went to a home only to notice the pilot light was out. This is an easy fix for any adult. A full list of instructions on how to light your pilot is right on the heater door. Next, check for water around your water heater. If there is water around your water heater, it’s time to call your plumbing company. At Big B’s Plumbing, we make every effort to extend the life of your current water heater.
Clogged Drains Is Another Annoying Plumbing Issue
Plumbing companies receive more calls for clogged drains than any other service. A clogged drain is another annoying plumbing issue, and they come in different shapes and sizes—everything from a small clogged bathroom drain to a backed-up sewer line. Most clogged drains a homeowner can handle using a drain auger or plunger. Then there are those drains that should only be handled by a plumbing professional. Clogs occur because of what we put down our drains, so keep in mind your toilet is not a trash can. Don’t allow paper towels, sanitary napkins, diapers, cotton balls, or any other bathroom trash down your toilet. Also, keep your garbage disposal free of oils, grease, and fat.
