How much do you know about plumbing? Does your expertise extend past the use a plunger to clear a backed up toilet?
Don’t feel badly if it doesn’t. Remember, the professionals study for years to become plumbing experts. They address these situations day in and day out, while you may face a problem once a year.
Four of the most likely plumbing issues you will face and how to repair them
1) Your pipes creak
FamilyHandyman.com suggests wrapping pipes in adhesive backed felt.
“Running hot water can cause copper pipes to expand and grind against pipe hangers and joists. So pick up some adhesive-backed felt at the hardware store and cut it into strips. Then remove each hanger and wrap the pipe before refastening the hanger.”
2) You have a leak
“You may be able to stop the leak by simply tightening the nut below the hand wheel,” DoItYourself.com explains.
“Never tighten more than a quarter turn to avoid damaging the valve. If the valve needs to be re-soldered, be sure to remove any hand wheels and interior parts, leaving just the base to work on.”
Always be sure to drain the water completely from the piece you’re working on before re-soldering the joint.
3) Your pipes froze
“Shut off the water supply to the house, then open a faucet near the blocked area to vent vapors from the frozen water,” HGTV.com advises.
“If you suspect that pipes in the hot water system are frozen, turn off the hot water heater. Use a hair dryer to warm the frozen pipe, starting at the end of the pipe nearest to the tap.”
You’ll know the pipe has begun to thaw when water begins to trickle from the open faucet. When the flow is restored, check the plumbing carefully for cracks or leaks.
4) You have a clogged drain
There are times you’ll have to work inside part of a sink cabinet to get at the P-trap underneath the sink.
“In order to loosen up some of the blockage, it is advisable you get your trusty old plunger, fill the sink with some water and plunge out the sink. If you have a double sink, be sure to stop off that side of the sink with another plunger in order to contain the air pressure,” Plumbingqa.com says
Kramer: “Um, listen, you’re a mechanic. Could you help me install a garbage disposal?”
Puddy: “Well, it’s a big job. You’ve got to dismantle the latch hasp from the auxiliary drainage line.”
– From “Seinfeld”
Did you get any of that? No? Not a problem. Call the professionals at Eyman Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today at 402-731-2727. We can help!