How to Make Some Surprisingly Easy Home Plumbing Repairs
Plumbing is like most other aspects of home maintenance: There are many projects you will want to leave to the professionals, but also a few that you can safely take on by yourself. Obviously, in true emergency situations, in scenarios in which you are not sure what you are doing, or in cases where a mistake could prove costly, calling a professional plumber is recommended. With that said, there are a few small plumbing maintenance tasks you can do all by yourself, with surprising ease, in order to keep your home functioning as intended.
Fortify Your Tub
Over time, water wears down the caulk that seals your tub, and it becomes necessary to replace it. This is an easy at-home project that should take just 30 to 40 minutes. Remove the old caulk, clean everything out with a bleach solution, and then re-caulk—remembering to fill the tub with water when you do so.
Drain Your Water Heater
Over time, water heaters can accumulate sediment, which makes them much less efficient. This ultimately means your water heater is working harder to provide you with hot water—wasting plenty of energy in the process. To get the most out of your water heater, use the tank’s drain to let out a few gallons worth of water. Do this every six months and you will not only ensure a more efficient water heater, but you may also extend its lifespan.
Replace Your Washer Supply Lines
If there’s ever a problem with your washing machine, odds are that it won’t be the machine itself, but rather the hose that connects the machine to the water supply. Here there is always the potential for a big leak, which could result in gallons upon gallons of water spilling out onto your floor. To avoid this, remove and replace that rubber hose with one made from braided steel; the latter, obviously, is much more durable and resistant to leaks.
Clean Your Aerator
If a faucet is giving you low pressure, or if it is leaking around the handle, there is probably some lime buildup blocking the openings in the aerator. This can be cleaned up—restoring full functionality to the faucet—by unscrewing the aerator and using a small brush and some vinegar to clean off the sediment and buildup. (Of course, if your aerator does not dissemble fairly easily, it might be prudent to call a plumbing professional anyway.)
For homeowners, plumbing maintenance does not always have to be laborious, time-consuming, or expensive. There are several plumbing maintenance steps that can be done on a DIY basis. For projects that require a professional’s guidance, however, do not hesitate to contact Unclog.it at your earliest convenience!
