How to Troubleshoot Plumbing Problems at Home

Troubleshoot Plumbing Problems at Home | Super Terry | Pittsburgh

How to Troubleshoot Plumbing Problems at Home

Small undetected plumbing issues turn into financial disasters when they reach their breaking point. Here are some tips to troubleshoot plumbing problems at home to save your system and your wallet.

Faulty Faucets

If the sound of your dripping faucet is driving you to insanity, it could be a number of different things. The culprit could be a worn O ring. The O ring is located in the stem of your faucet and keeps the handle in place. As the faucet is pushed and pulled this ring wears away resulting in a leak at the base of the handle.

The issue could also be an old, worn out cartridge. There is a mesh filter located at the end of the faucet and over time this can become clogged with mineral deposits. With the clog comes reduced water pressure and increased pressure on the faucet. It’s a good idea to have these replaced every couple of years.

Troublesome Toilets

Leaks in toilets often go unnoticed because they don’t create a mess on the floor, instead toilets leak internally. This means the toilet is running all the time and therefore running up your bill. One of the most common sources of a toilet leak is a deformed rubber flapper. Over time they can lose their shape and fail to properly seal your tank.

Another common issue that results in a toilet leak is a when the chain attached to the flapper becomes twisted. This prevents the flapper from sitting flush against your system and allows water to leak through. Fortunately this can be a cheap $20 repair if you catch it early enough.

Inconvenient Clogs

One of the most common plumbing issues for all homeowners is clogged pipes. Clogs caught early can easily be removed with a DIY plunge. However more serious clogs need to be snaked by a professional.

Hair, toothpaste, toothbrush bristles, and toilet paper can all contribute to a backed up pipe. It can be tempting to purchase drain cleaners, but these often do more harm than good. If you can’t fix the clog yourself, call your local professional.