25 Random Plumbing Tips
1.) When your pipes bang while you turn on the water, it’s time to add straps and protect the pipes with a layer of rubber.
2.) If you are going to anchor a pipe, be sure to allow room for expansion.
3.) Do not use galvanized strapping on copper pipe.
4.) During cold spells, be sure to keep your faucets dripping. This will prevent the pipes from freezing.
5.) Point a heat lamp at exposed pipes during the cold season.
6.) Wrap uninsulated pipes with newspaper or form. This is another proactive measure to combat frozen pipes.
7.) If a pipe freezes, turn off the water at the main valve. Then run water from the nearest faucet to the frozen pipe to thaw.
8.) If the shower head is leaking where it meets the arm, a washer may need to be replaced. You can do this by loosening the collar with a
tape-wrapped rib joint pliers.
9.) If you feel like your shower’s water pressure is constantly dropping, then it may be time to clean your head. This can be done by submerging the head
in a CLR solution.
10.) If your toilet is noisy, it may be due to restricted water flow or a faulty ball valve assembly. This can be fixed by replacing the entire ballcock assembly or by greasing the trigger lever. Before doing this, be sure to first adjust the shutoff valve. Also, be sure to turn off the water at the fixture’s shutoff valve, and then flush the toilet to an empty tank. Sponge up any remaining water.
11.) If your toilet won’t stop running, the float arm may not be high enough. To remedy this you will need to bend the float arm down or away from the tank wall.
12.) If the problem is not the n. For #11, check if you have a floating ball filled with water. If this is the case, then it’s time to replace the ball.
13.) Eliminate drafts in crawl spaces to prevent pipes from freezing.
14.) Fix broken and cracked windows and doors to prevent frozen pipes.
15.) Insulate exterior walls to prevent pipes from freezing.
16.) Disconnect any outside water hoses, this also prevents the pipes from freezing.
17.) If you can’t thaw your pipes, don’t force it. Instead, call a licensed plumber.
18.) Do not use galvanized steel for your plumbing. Galvanized steel can suffer from corrosion. Copper plumbing is your best option.
19.) Get a copy of the Uniform Plumbing Code to make sure your plumbing is up to par.
20.) Get your own professional pipe cutters, reciprocating saw blades, hacksaw blades, and a plastic pipe saw. Get it right or expect trouble down the road.
21.) Use caulk in all gaps and joints.
22.) Tighten everything, but not too tight.
23.) Always test your plumbing for leaks before finalizing anything.
24.) If your hot water pipe is rusty or discolored that:
a.) Drain the tank.
b.) Remove the items, soak them in vinegar, then scrape off the scale.
c.) Have a plumber replace the pipes.
25.) If you have a clogged sink, do the following:
a.) Close any faucets or appliances that drain into the drain.
b.) Use a plunger or snake to unclog.
c.) Do not use chemicals in the drain if it is COMPLETELY clogged.