According to Southern Plumbing, plumbing problems around the home can be stressful to deal with, especially when you and your family need access to the appliances that rely on the plumbing to function. Fortunately, you can fix a variety of simple plumbing issues with just a few basic tools and some knowhow. However, if you need to tackle anything more complex than the basics, you’d be well advised to consult a professional. The following are some of the plumbing problems that you may wish to handle yourself.

Turning Off the Water

Learning to shut off the water is a great starting point for almost any plumbing repair job. If you need to turn the water off for a toilet or a sink, you will first need to locate the shutoff valve for that fixture. The shutoff valve for a sink is typically located directly below the sink, and the valve for a toilet is usually underneath the toilet tank. Simply twist the valve handle clockwise to shut off the water.

To shut off the water supply to the entire house, you will need to find the main shutoff valve, which should be somewhere near the water meter. You will likely need an adjustable wrench or a cutoff key to turn off the water with this valve. You’ll use your tool to rotate the valve handle clockwise to turn off the water.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet by Replacing a Worn Stem or Washer

At some point, one of the faucets in your home is apt to start leaking. First, turn off the water via the valve beneath the sink. Your next step will be to remove the decorative cap that is covering the knob. Use a flathead screwdriver to take off the center screw, then you should remove the screw and the nut. Rotate the stem to remove it, and replace it if it is damaged. The washer will be at the bottom part of the stem. If this piece, typically shaped like a disc, has sustained wear, then it should be replaced. Always take parts with you when shopping for replacements, so you are sure to get the right replacement parts and sizes. Once you get a replacement stem or washer, reassemble the unit and the problem should be resolved.

Replacing a Slip-On Bathtub Spout

If your bathtub spout is not working properly, you may need to replace it. First, turn off the water. You will probably need to shut it off via the main valve for your home. A slip-on spout should be fastened in place with a setscrew. You’ll find that on the underside of the spout, where the base of the spout meets the pipe behind the wall. Loosen this screw with a hex wrench, and gently pull the spout away from the pipe to which it is fastened. Gently slide the new spout on the pipe, and refasten it with the setscrew.

Fixing a Clogged Toilet

Sometimes, fixing a plumbing problem is a simple matter of using a plunger. Be sure to get the right kind of plunger for a toilet; the plunger should be shaped like a bell with a small cup extending at its bottom. If your toilet has become clogged and is overflowing with water, turn the water off at the valve. Then, firmly place the plunger in the bottom center area of the toilet bowl (where the water exits and enters the bowl). Plunge the bowl with the plunger in short, fast movements, being sure to keep the plunger sealed against the surface of the bowl. When the clog is broken up, turn the water on again and flush the toilet. You may need to repeat the process.

Quick plumbing fixes are great to learn and implement. When you can do these repairs yourself, you may save yourself some time and money. However, if you are unsure of how to do a repair, or if a problem requires more than the easiest of fixes, contacting a plumber could ultimately spare you from much expense and aggravation.

This article was contributed on behalf of Southern Plumbing, your number one choice when looking for sewer replacement services. Click here for more information!