Plumbing Basics Every Homeowner Should Know

Owning a home means you’re bound to deal with plumbing issues at some point or another, so knowing some plumbing basics for homeowners may help you out during the occasional leak or water problem. The BrickKicker has compiled our top DIY plumbing basics you should know to keep your home dry and flowing properly. 

DIY Plumbing Basics You Should Know 

Calling a plumber can be expensive, especially when there are DIY plumbing basics that may answer some of your questions without picking up the phone. To save yourself money and headache, there are many basic plumbing tips every homeowner should know, but the first step is locating a variety of plumbing components. 

Homeowners should know where to find your: 

• – Water main: You’ll need to turn off your water to perform any plumbing fix, so knowing where to find your water main is a crucial first step. 
• – Main sewer line clean out: This pipe is the exit route for your home’s water supply, and may require occasional maintenance to keep it clear and blockage free. Usually located near your property line, you may also find it in the basement. 
• – Water supply valves: Appliances, sinks, and toilets will each have their own water supply valve to turn off water in their precise areas. 

Once you know where these systems are located, you can attempt a variety of DIY plumbing basics. 

How to Clear a Clogged Toilet

Clogged toilets are very common, but luckily an easy DIY plumbing fix! 

1. Place a plunger in the bowl and push down several times. In most cases, the pressure will push through the clog. 
2. If that doesn’t work, you can add some hot water to the bowl to break down the obstruction. 
3. You may need to give it several tries before unclogging. 

How to Clean a Shower Head 

If you’re experiencing low water pressure in your shower, the shower head needs a good cleaning. 

1. Pour vinegar into a plastic bag, then submerge the shower head in the bag, securing the bag at the top and leaving to sit overnight. 
2. Remove the bag in the morning and run your shower normally. 
3. If the low pressure persists, try using a toothpick to scrape through mineral deposits in the jets. 

How to Stop a Running Toilet 

One of the most frequently used plumbing basics for homeowners is knowing how to stop a toilet that keeps running. 

1. Start by removing the tank lid. You’ll see the plunger level is connected via a chain to the flushing mechanism. If the chain is disconnected, reach in and try to reconnect. 
2. If the chain is broken, or if the plastic float is not working, you can purchase DIY repair kits at your local home improvement store.
3. The kits contain easy-to-follow instructions and can be completed in less than an hour. 

Keep Up With The BrickKicker for Plumbing Basics and More! 

The BrickKicker helps you maintain your home with basic plumbing tips every homeowner should know and more, but should you find a plumbing problem that requires more expertise,  contact us for home inspections you can trust.