2 Common Residential Plumbing Issues And How To Troubleshoot Them

Residential plumbing issues are not something anyone ever wants to face. Not only can it cause damage due to leaking water, but it can also be unsanitary in most cases. It is important to learn the signs of plumbing issues so you can minimize the amount of damage and hopefully lower the cost of repairs as well. This guide goes over some common residential plumbing problems and the proper way to troubleshoot them.

Toilet Constantly Running

There is nothing more frustrating than a toilet that won't stop running. The sound of the water tank starting and stopping can get very annoying. Luckily, there are some troubleshooting tips you can follow to check why this is happening.

Flapper

The flapper is located in the bottom of the toilet tank. When the toilet is flushed, the flapper lifts up and releases water. It then falls down into place and seals itself shut until the next time you flush. If the flapper isn't sealing properly, then the toilet can constantly run. Open the tank and check that the flapper is properly in place. If it seems faulty, you should replace it with a new one.

Fill Valve

The fill valve is located in the tank of the toilet. It looks like a long tube with a float extending off the top of it. When the toilet is flushed, the float goes down and the water will begin to fill into the tank. If the valve is faulty, it will cause water to constantly run into the tank and may even overflow. Leaky valves can spray water from various holes in the fill valve. It should be replaced immediately to fix the toilet.

Clogged Drains

When you pour water down a drain, it is supposed to go down into the plumbing system. However, if you have clogged drains then the liquid will drain very slowly or sometimes not at all. In order to prevent clogs in drains, you should never dump the following items down them:

  • Paint or paint thinner

  • Oil

  • Grease

  • Food

These items are too thick and do not go through the system. They can harden inside the plumbing pipes and cause a huge blockage. You will need something to clear it. You can try chemical products to break up smaller clogs, but if it doesn't work you will need to use a plumber's snake to dislodge it.

Conclusion

Any time you have an issue that is too difficult to handle on your own, you will be wise to hire a plumber. They have the proper tools and training to repair all your residential plumbing problems.


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