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Plumbing problems can be a major headache for homeowners and renters. They can be messy, inconvenient, and potentially costly. If not dealt with quickly, they could cause significant damage to your property, resulting in an insurance claim.
The good news is that many common plumbing issues are rather easy to fix yourself or with a quick service call from a plumber. Here are five common plumbing issues and how to fix them:

Leaking Faucets

Drip, drip, drip. A leaking faucet is one of the most common plumbing issues. It can waste a significant amount of water and lead to high water bills.

To fix a leaking faucet, first, turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink. Next, remove the handle of the faucet and the nut that holds the stem in place. Inspect the washer at the bottom of the stem and replace it if it is worn or damaged. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply to test for leaks.

Clogged Drains

Toilet not flushing? Water pooling in the sink? Clogged drains are another common plumbing issue. They can be caused by a buildup of food, hair, soap, or other debris.

Try using a plunger to remove the blockage. If this doesn’t work, remove the drain cover and use a drain snake or auger to remove the blockage. You can also try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. If these methods don’t work, you may need to call a professional plumber.

Running Toilets

Hear that water running in your toilet after a flush? A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water and lead to high water bills.

Check the flapper valve at the bottom of the tank. It may be worn or damaged and need to be replaced. If the flapper valve is in good condition, check the chain that connects it to the handle. If the chain is too loose, it may prevent the flapper valve from closing properly. Adjust the chain so that it has some slack but is not too loose. If these steps don’t fix the problem, the issue may be with the fill valve and may require professional assistance.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, including a clogged faucet aerator, a malfunctioning pressure regulator, or a leak in the water line.

Check the faucet aerator for buildup and clean it if necessary. If this doesn’t fix the problem, check the pressure regulator to ensure it is working correctly. If the pressure regulator is not functioning properly, it may need to be replaced. If you suspect a leak in the water line, contact a professional plumber to locate and repair the leak.

Water Heater Issues

Water heater issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including sediment buildup, a malfunctioning heating element, or a faulty thermostat.

Inspect the pilot light on gas water heaters to ensure it is lit. If the pilot light is not lit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If the pilot light is lit but there is still no hot water, check the heating element or thermostat. If either of these components is malfunctioning, they may need to be replaced. Sediment buildup can also cause water heater issues, which can be resolved by draining and flushing the tank.

Need a good plumber? Look no further! We can help you with all your plumber needs right here at Bradshaw Plumbing.