(Part 2)
If you’ve ever lived in a house with running water, then the chances are that you have experienced a range of plumbing problems, from a leaking tap to an overflowing toilet. But, what problems should you fix yourself, and when do you need to call a plumber? Read on for part two of our common plumbing problems and solutions series. (Click here to read part 1).
Clogged Toilet
The best way to prevent your toilet from becoming clogged is to ensure that nothing is flushed down the toilet other than toilet paper and human waste. If your toilet bowl fills up with water when flushed, but the water doesn’t drain, it means that there is a clog.
How To Unclog A Toilet:
If you have a clogged toilet try using a plunger to unclog it. First, place the plunger into the bowl, using the rubber head of the plunger to form a seal over the entrance to the pipe at the bottom of the toilet. Next, push the plunger down, and then pull it back up without breaking the seal. Repeat this a few times before removing the plunger and flushing the toilet.
If the water clears, you have unclogged the toilet. If the bowl fills again without draining, repeat the process until the water successfully drains after flushing.
Top Tip:
If you run the rubber head of the plunger under hot water before use, it will soften up the rubber allowing you to create a better seal when plunging the toilet.
Low Water Pressure
Another frustrating plumbing problem that is common in residential properties is low water pressure. Low water pressure is most commonly caused by a buildup of mineral deposits and sediment on the tip (or aerator) of the tap, or on a showerhead.
If your low water pressure is caused by a sediment buildup, simply soak the affected aerator or showerhead in vinegar to remove the buildup. Alternatively, you can replace the aerator or powerhead and your water pressure should go back to normal.
However, if your low water pressure is not caused by mineral deposits, it could be an indication of a more serious problem. Leaking or broken pipes can also cause low water pressure, but cannot be as easily fixed.
If you’ve replaced or cleaned your taps and showerheads with vinegar and low water pressure persists, contact your local plumber as you may have a broken pipe.
Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes are a serious plumbing issue that can cause water damage to surrounding furniture as well as walls and floors. Additionally, dampness caused by leaking pipes can attract pests such as cockroaches, ants, and even termites.
If you have a leak, check the pipe joints as 99% of the time a leak can be traced back to a pipe joint. Leaks can be temporarily fixed using duct tape or waterproof fillers. However, a permanent fix will likely involve replacing a section of the pipe as well as the affected fittings. This should be completed by a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage to the plumbing system
If you’ve got a household plumbing problem, call your local Sunshine Coast plumbers at Sun City Hot Water & Plumbing. From leaking taps and toilets to bathroom renovations or guttering and downpipes, we do it all! Call us today on 1300 728 122 for quality plumbing services Sunshine Coast at great prices!
