6 Safe DIY Plumbing Repairs

August 24, 2023


6 Safe DIY Plumbing Repairs

Plumbing systems are complex and can malfunction at the worst possible times, but fortunately there are a few repairs that homeowners can safely fix on their own.

1. Fix a leaky kitchen faucet

Faucets are relatively simple and don’t require a plumbing license to fix. Don’t ignore that drip, or you’ll be in for an unpleasant surprise — either with a high utility bill or serious water damage. You’ll need a faucet repair kit, O-ring seals, an allen wrench, pliers, slip joint pliers, and a 4-in-1 screwdriver.

View step-by-step instructions here.

2. Fix a running toilet

A simple fix will solve nine out of 10 toilet flushing problems. To stop a running toilet, you’ll need cutting pliers, rubber gloves, pliers, a replacement fill valve, and a toilet flapper.

View step-by-step instructions here.

3. Unclog the drain

Clogged drains can be caused by hair, grease, and other gunk that goes down the drain. Unclogging the drain is a pretty simple fix that only requires a needle-nose pliers, a 4-in-1 screwdriver, a utility knife, and a heavy wire to bend into a hook.

View step-by-step instructions here.

4. Fix a leaking water heater

A leaking water heater can be caused by a temperature and pressure relief valve, or a water heater drain valve. If the water heater is leaking from the relief valve, then the cause may be a defective valve or extremely high temperature or pressure.

Forgetting to routinely flush the water to remove sediment from the bottom of the tank can lead to rumbling and a leak from the drain valve. The repair process is simple but time-consuming.

View step-by-step instructions here.

5. Fix the water softener

Problems with the water softener can often be addressed by checking the brine tank for excess salt buildup and cleaning the resin bed.

View step-by-step instructions here.

6. Replace the shutoff valve

The shutoff valve turns off water in case of a sudden overflowing toilet or leaking faucet. The repair takes about an hour but could help prevent serious water damage.

View step-by-step instructions here.

If DIY repairs don’t solve the problem, then call Hamilton Plumbing, Heating, A/C, Rooter at (913) 227-4943 for professional service.

Click here to see the top 5 plumbing problems at home.

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Last Updated: August 24, 2023