6 Plumbing Problems You Can Fix By Yourself
Plumbing issues always seem to show up without warning, and while some require a professional’s attention, others are surprisingly manageable with the right tools and mindset. You don’t need to be a seasoned handyman to take care of some small fixes. With a bit of patience, several common problems can be solved on your own, saving you time, money, and frustration. Here are six plumbing issues you can safely tackle yourself.
1. A Dripping Faucet
A leaky faucet isn’t just annoying, it can waste gallons of water before it gets fixed. Usually, the issue comes down to a worn-out washer or cartridge inside the handle. By shutting off the water, disassembling the faucet, and replacing the faulty part, you can stop the dripping without calling anyone in. Make sure to bring the part with you to the hardware store to find the right match.
2. A Clogged Bathroom Sink
When water starts draining slowly from your sink, it’s often due to a buildup of hair, soap scum, and grime just below the stopper. You can usually fix it by removing the stopper and using a simple plastic drain snake or even a straightened wire hanger to pull out the blockage. Rinse the area clean and your sink should be back to normal, no plumbers needed.
3. A Running Toilet
If your toilet keeps running after a flush, it’s likely because the flapper inside the tank isn’t sealing properly. These rubber pieces wear down over time. Lift the lid, check the chain and flapper, and see if anything is misaligned or broken. Replacing the flapper is cheap and takes only a few minutes, and it often solves the problem right away.
4. A Showerhead With Weak Pressure
Mineral buildup inside your showerhead can cause water to spray unevenly or weakly. Unscrew the head and soak it in white vinegar for a few hours to dissolve any buildup. If that doesn’t clear it completely, use a soft brush or a toothpick to clear the holes, then reattach it and test the water flow. This simple clean-up often restores good pressure.
5. A Loose Kitchen Faucet Base
If your faucet wobbles when you use it, there’s likely a loose mounting nut underneath the sink. This can be fixed by reaching under the sink and tightening the nut that holds the faucet in place. It may require a basin wrench for tight spots, but otherwise is a very easy fix.
6. A Jammed Garbage Disposal
When your garbage disposal hums but doesn’t spin, it could be jammed. First, turn it off and unplug it for safety. Use the hex key that came with the unit (or buy one) to manually rotate the motor from underneath. You can also check for visible blockages inside the drain with tongs or pliers. Once the jam is cleared, reset the disposal and try running it again.
Related Articles
You don’t need plumbing experience or expertise to handle these common problems. With a steady hand and a bit of prep, you can solve them quickly and safely all on your own. Just remember to take your time, follow safety steps, and know your limits. When something feels too complicated, calling in a professional is always the right move.
Daniel Mitchell
