Sometimes, you can solve a plumbing problem yourself. For example, a clogged drain can often be cleared with hot water, baking soda and vinegar.

Leaking pipes, however, can lead to serious water and sewage damage that requires a plumber’s help. Here are some signs it’s time to call a plumber:

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are the bane of many a homeowner’s existence. Not only do they prevent water from passing through properly, but they can also lead to major plumbing issues down the line. If you find that you are constantly dealing with clogged sinks, tubs, or toilets, it’s time to call in a plumber Eltham for some professional help.

Some clogs are more severe than others, and a plumber will need to take a closer look at your pipes to figure out the cause. However, there are some things you can do to make the process easier. For instance, instead of using chemical clog removers that can actually damage your pipes (and the environment), try plunging and hot water. First, use the plunger to see if it can dislodge the clog; if this doesn’t work, pour boiling water down the drain.

You can also try mixing baking soda and vinegar down the drain to create a foaming solution that may break up or dislodge the clog. However, this should only be done on metal or PVC pipes; if you are dealing with plastic pipes, you’ll need to use another method.

Hair, pet fur, and food scraps are some of the most common causes of clogged drains. If these problems happen frequently in multiple areas of your home, it’s likely a sign that there are blockages farther down the pipe.

Toilet That Keeps Running

When your toilet keeps running, it’s not only annoying but can lead to costly water bills. A plumber Diamond Creek can repair your toilet and prevent future issues.

If you notice a constant running sound coming from your toilet, the first step is to turn off the water supply. Look behind your toilet for the shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to cut off the flow of water into the tank. You can also check your toilet for an overflow tube or a leaking fill valve.

Once the water is off, you can open your toilet’s tank lid and examine all the parts. A constantly running toilet often happens when the flapper seal breaks or no longer fits properly. A chain that is too short or long could be interfering with the flapper, as well. You can usually find a replacement flapper at your local hardware store, so replacing the old one is a simple fix.

In some cases, a continuously running toilet may be caused by an improperly adjusted fill valve in the tank. A plumber can adjust the fill valve to ensure it’s positioned correctly and the toilet isn’t continually refilling after each flush.

Odorous Drains

A smelly drain may mean you have a serious clog. A plumber can use a snake to dislodge even the most stubborn blockages and clean out your P-trap. A plunger or natural enzyme cleaners can also work if the clog isn’t too severe. Chemical drain cleaners, however, do more harm than good by corroding pipes.

If you have multiple slow or clogged drains, it may be a sign of a sewer line problem. A plumber Montmorency can check and fix your entire plumbing system for signs of a sewer line issue, including checking the water pressure of all the drains in your home.

Smelly drains can be caused by many things, including grease build-up, products that shouldn’t go down the toilet (like baby wipes and feminine products), or a clogged garbage disposal. The best thing to do is regularly clean your drains with baking soda and vinegar. Simply pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, then add a cup of vinegar. The chemical reaction will break up the clog and eliminate the smell.

If you suspect a vent pipe is the source of stinky drains, a plumber can fix it by using a device that emits harmless smoke into the drain and pipe system. The smoke can help locate the source of the odor and find any blockages or cracks in the vent pipe.

Leaking Faucets

The constant drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet can drive you crazy. It also wastes water and can result in high utility bills. Plus, it creates the ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow, which can pose health risks for your family. But fixing a leaky faucet is relatively inexpensive and a job most homeowners can do themselves.

The first step is to shut off the water supply, which is typically done by turning the valves under the sink. Then, place a bucket or pan under the sink to catch any water that might spill during the repair process. It’s also a good idea to remove the handle and take the entire assembly apart, so you can see what parts need replacing. The type of faucet you have will determine what replacement parts you need. For example, a cartridge-style faucet might need new O-rings or a replacement disc cartridge. You might need to make a trip to the hardware store to find the right size.

Once you have the necessary replacement parts, reassemble the faucet and turn on the water. If the leak continues, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. But don’t put off this important home improvement because a leaky faucet can cause serious problems down the road. If left unchecked, it can lead to expensive water damage and even structural issues in your home.