How to fix basic plumbing problems?
- Unblock Traps
One of the most common areas where blockages occur is in traps. A basin trap is explained here. Snake (tool) can unclog many types of traps, but sinks usually need to be dismantled for the blockage to be removed.
Materials and Tools:
- bowl
- bucket
- old toothbrush
- replacement washers
Steps:
- Undo the sink trap. Position a bowl beneath it to catch any water.
- Remove debris and wash the trap in a bucket of clean water. An old toothbrush is an ideal cleaning tool.
- Replace the trap. It is worth replacing worn washers while the trap is disassembled to prevent future leaks.
- Unclog the Sink Drain
Clogs in bathroom sinks are fairly common, and they usually occur near the pop-up assembly of the drain.
Materials and Tools:
- Drain plug adjustment arm
Steps:
- Remove the spring tab from the drain plug adjustment arm.
- Remove the ball valve from the sink trap.
- Remove the pop-up plug and then remove the debris clogging the sink.
- Clear Stopped-Up Toilets
If flush water rises to the rim and then drains slowly, the toilet trap or drain is blocked. To unblock these, use a plunger first, then a snake (tool) — the latter burrows into the blockage and loosens it up.
Materials and Tools:
Snake (tool)
Steps:
- Pull a section of the snake (tool) out of the drum.
- Tighten the retaining nut on top of the snake (tool) body.
- Rotate the drum of the snake (tool) so it burrows into the waste system to dislodge the blockage
- Fix Weak Water Pressure in the Shower
Reduced shower flow is usually due to limescale buildup. This can easily be removed with a descaling product.
Materials and Tools:
screwdriver, bowl, descaling solution
Steps:
- Unscrew the shower head from the hose.
- Unscrew the spray plate and immerse it in descaling solution.
- Leave it in the solution for specified length of time. Flush any remaining scale from the pipes before replacing the shower head.