subject: Solutions to Those Common Plumbing Problems [print this page] Solutions to Those Common Plumbing Problems
Some good old-fashioned preventative maintenance can ensure that your plumbing system stays at peak performance for a long time. If you're already experiencing trouble, here are five solutions to some pesky plumbing problems.
1. Clogged Drain: A slow drain in the sink and bath could mean a number of things. Grease, food materials, and even tree roots could be slowing down the home's drainage system. The first option is to try a plunger on the clog. For more persistent clogs, a high pressure jet sprayer or snaking the line will break up grease clogs and tougher solid material. If the drain is still not working, the problem may be further down the line. Avoid pouring chemicals, grease, and paint down the drain. These elements can form sticky traps in the water lines and are hard to clear.
2. Toilet that won't flush: If the toilet is slow to flush or won't flush at all sometimes objects from pencils to plastic combs to toys, can combine with toilet paper to form a barrier. Check the trap area and see if any objects are blocking the drainage.
3. Leaky water heater: If your water heater is leaving a small pool of water, it could mean condensation is occurring or the tank is getting too old. In any event, a homeowner should be able to tackle some of these common water heater problems. Reasons for puddles of water: 1) Condensation; cold water fills the tank and drips down to form a small puddle. 2) Temperature relief valve; this device senses pressure and will allow water to seep through, if the water thermostat is set too high. 3) Drain valve; adjusting this can prevent inadvertent leaking. 4) Water pipes connected to the heater may be leaking. Find where the water is escaping and tighten the fitting. 5) Tank could be corroded; if this is the case, you'll have to replace the unit.
