Plumbing issues can happen anytime, but not every problem requires a professional. Knowing how to handle minor plumbing repairs can save you money, prevent bigger problems, and keep your home running smoothly.
At Tealpot, we connect homeowners with skilled plumbers when expert help is needed. But for minor issues, these seven easy DIY plumbing fixes can save the day!
1. Unclog a Slow or Blocked Drain
The Problem: Water drains slowly in your sink or bathtub.
The Fix:
- Pour boiling water down the drain to break up grease and soap buildup.
- Mix baking soda and vinegar (½ cup each), let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Use a plunger or drain snake to remove stubborn clogs.
When to Call a Plumber: If water still won’t drain or you notice foul odors, you may have a deeper blockage that needs professional attention.
2. Fix a Leaky Faucet
The Problem: A dripping faucet wastes gallons of water and increases your water bill.
The Fix:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink.
- Remove the faucet handle and replace the washer or O-ring—these often wear out.
- Reassemble and test to ensure the leak is gone.
When to Call a Plumber: If replacing washers doesn’t stop the leak, the entire faucet may need replacement.
3. Stop a Running Toilet
The Problem: Your toilet keeps running, wasting water.
The Fix:
- Open the tank lid and check the flapper valve. If it’s worn out, replace it.
- Adjust the float ball or fill valve if the water level is too high.
- Tighten any loose connections in the flush mechanism.
When to Call a Plumber: If the problem persists after replacing parts, your toilet may have a bigger internal issue.
4. Repair a Leaky Pipe (Temporary Fix)
The Problem: Water leaks under the sink or from exposed pipes.
The Fix:
- Shut off the main water supply immediately.
- Use plumber’s tape or epoxy putty as a temporary seal until you can get professional repairs.
- For small cracks, a pipe clamp or rubber patch can hold for a short time.
When to Call a Plumber: If the leak is significant or in a hidden pipe behind walls, professional repairs are necessary.
5. Increase Low Water Pressure
The Problem: Weak water flow in your sink or shower.
The Fix:
- Remove the faucet aerator and clean out mineral deposits using vinegar.
- Check that shut-off valves are fully open.
- Inspect pipes for leaks. If there’s a blockage, flushing the system may help.
When to Call a Plumber: If pressure remains low throughout the house, it may indicate a deeper plumbing issue.
6. Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal
The Problem: Your kitchen sink disposal won’t turn on or makes a humming noise.
The Fix:
- Unplug the unit for safety.
- Use an Allen wrench to manually turn the disposal from the bottom.
- Press the reset button, usually found underneath the unit.
When to Call a Plumber: If the disposal still doesn’t work, it may need a replacement.
7. Stop a Smelly Drain
The Problem: Your kitchen or bathroom drain has an unpleasant odor.
The Fix:
- Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Flush with hot water to remove buildup.
- For persistent smells, clean the P-trap under the sink, as it may be holding stagnant water or debris.
When to Call a Plumber: If the smell persists, it could be a sign of a bigger issue like sewer gas leaks.
When to DIY vs. When to Call a Pro
Some plumbing fixes are simple, but others require professional expertise.
Call a plumber if you experience:
- Major leaks or water damage
- Sewage backups
- Frequent clogging despite DIY fixes
- No running water or extremely low pressure
That’s where Tealpot comes in.
Need a Reliable Plumber? Tealpot Has You Covered!
Instead of guessing which plumber to hire, Tealpot makes it easy to find verified, skilled professionals near you.
- Licensed & Vetted Experts – No more hiring the wrong person.
- Fair Pricing – Get transparent cost estimates before you book.
- 24/7 Availability – Emergency plumbing? We’ve got you covered.
- Customer Reviews & Ratings – See what others say before hiring.
Visit Tealpot now and connect with top-rated plumbers instantly.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing problems can be frustrating, but knowing a few DIY fixes can help prevent costly repairs. When in doubt, hiring a professional through Tealpot ensures you get the job done right—quickly and affordably.
Need a plumber today? Start your search on Tealpot and hire the best in your area.
