DIY Plumbing Fixes You Can Handle Without a Professional

By Raymus Homes Staff - 1-1-2025

The holiday season is over, and with all the gatherings and travel you may have done, your wallet may need a break. We at Raymus Homes want to help you out with keeping a few pennies in your pocket and starting the new year off in the black. With that in mind, this article will tackle DIY plumbing fixes. Plumbing problems don’t always require an expensive service call. With a little know-how and a few basic tools, you can tackle some common plumbing issues yourself. Here are a few DIY plumbing fixes that can save you time and money.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing problems, but it’s also one of the easiest to fix. In most cases, the issue is caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the handle.

1. Turn off the water supply under the sink.
2. Remove the faucet handle using a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
3. Replace the old washer or O-ring with a new one that matches the size.
4. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on to check for leaks.

This simple fix can stop water waste and lower your utility bills.

Unclogging a Drain

Clogged sinks and tubs can be frustrating, but you don’t need harsh chemicals or a plumber to clear most blockages.

1. Use a plunger to create suction and loosen the clog.
2. If that doesn’t work, try a drain snake or auger to pull out debris.
3. For stubborn buildup, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then flush with boiling water.

These steps are safe for your pipes and can prevent recurring clogs.

Replacing a Showerhead

Is your showerhead clogged or spraying water unevenly? Replacing it is a quick and inexpensive fix.

1. Unscrew the old showerhead using pliers if needed.
2. Clean off any debris or buildup on the threads of the shower arm.
3. Wrap plumber’s tape around the threads to ensure a tight seal.
4. Screw on the new showerhead and test it for leaks.

Upgrading to a water-efficient showerhead can also save you money on water bills.

Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet wastes water and can drive up your utility bill, but it’s usually caused by a worn-out flapper or a misaligned float.

1. Remove the toilet tank lid and inspect the flapper.
2. Replace the flapper if it looks damaged or isn’t sealing properly.
3. Adjust the float arm to ensure the water shuts off at the right level.
4. Test the toilet by flushing and checking for leaks.

These quick adjustments can often solve the problem without replacing the entire mechanism.

Repairing a Loose Pipe

Loose pipes can rattle and leak, especially under sinks. Securing them is often an easy fix.

1. Tighten loose connections with a wrench.
2. Use plumber’s tape or pipe joint compound to seal any leaks at threaded connections.
3. For more support, add pipe clamps or brackets to hold pipes in place.

DIY Plumbing Saves Time and Money

You see, you can save some money and learn valuable skills you can use for the rest of your life. While some plumbing problems require professional expertise, many common issues can be fixed with simple tools and basic skills. By handling these minor repairs yourself, you can avoid costly service calls and keep your plumbing in good working order. However, if a problem seems too complex, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber to avoid further damage. We want you to keep enjoying your Raymus home to the fullest!