There are all sorts of things that can go wrong with residential plumbing. Drains can clog, pipes can freeze in winter, and toilets can erupt. When is the best time to call a plumber to help with the problem? Or is there something that you can do to clear the mess yourself?
Here is a breakdown of some of the things you can do to remedy a plumbing problem, and some signs to check on that indicate it is time to call in the experts.
Some Equipment You Need to Have on Hand
If you want to be able to tackle some minor plumbing problems on your own, you will need to have a few items to help you.
- A supersize bottle of vinegar
- An economy-size packet of baking soda (found in the baking section of a food store)
- A plunger
Clogged Drain
What you can do to unblock a sink drain at home is sprinkle baking soda into the plug. Then pour vinegar on top of it. It will froth up, so leave it for an hour or so. When the foam has reduced, pour a quart of boiling water into the plug slowly. This will dislodge all of the debris that has been loosened by the mixture and flushes it out of the pipes.
Indications you need a plumber: If you have a recurring blocked drain or if the drainage area outside is clogged, you’ll need to call a professional. Always leave outside plumbing to the experts as they understand how the sewage systems work in your area—a premiere plumber Manassas VA is only a click away.
Clogged Showerhead
If you live in a hard water area, you will find the showerhead in your bathroom is always getting clogged. This is because the elements in your water coagulate in the tiny hole outlets in the nozzle. This is easily remedied by pouring two cups of vinegar into a plastic packet and tying it to the showerhead so that the nozzle is immersed. Leave it in place for as long as possible, at least four hours. When you untie the bag and throw away the vinegar, you will have a shiny, unclogged showerhead nozzle.
When you need the services of a plumber: In any residential or commercial setting, if you need to update the equipment in your bathroom, the best thing to do is call a plumbing service to professionally install it for you.
Blocked Toilet
If your toilet is blocked, you must sort out the problem as soon as you notice it. Ideally, you should identify the problem before you flush. If you have already flushed, and the toilet is struggling to dislodge the blockage, use the plunger to suck and push the debris down. This is the most effective way to handle a toilet blockage.
When you need a plumber: If your toilet bowl is cracked, and is leaking, you should call a professional plumber to come and look at the problem as soon as possible.
