Many of the most common plumbing problems you'll encounter around the home have simple solutions. You can do a lot of these small plumbing repairs yourself. Here's how to handle them, and how to know when it's time to call a plumber.

5 Plumbing Repair Tips

1. Clogs

Minor clogs can be broken up using a plunger, so try this first. Use a cup plunger for a sink or shower drain, and a flange plunger for the toilet. If this doesn't work, professional drain cleaning will take care of the problem.

2. Leaks

Some minor leaks occur when pipes and fittings wiggle loose. If the water is coming from a joint or fitting, see if you can use a wrench to tighten it. Call for leak repairs if the water is coming from a burst pipe, if the threads of a fitting or joint are stripped, or if the leak keeps coming back.

3. Jammed Garbage Disposal

On the bottom of your garbage disposal is a small socket that can be loosened with an Allen wrench or the key that comes with the unit. This will allow you to manually move the blades and loosen whatever is causing the jam. However, if the garbage disposal won't run after this, you will need repairs or a replacement.

4. Running Toilet

Inside your toilet tank is a flapper that controls the flow of water. It’s operated by a chain connected to the toilet handle. If the water is constantly running, check whether the flapper has gotten stuck in the open position or if the chain is too short before calling in an expert.

5. Water Pressure Issues

If your water pressure problems happen at a specific sink or faucet, the aerator is the most likely culprit. You can remove and clean it yourself to allow better water flow or have this done by a professional. If you have water pressure issues throughout the home, your plumber can install equipment to regulate it better.

If you've exhausted the DIY options for plumbing repair, call Lonneman Plumbing in Edgewood, KY for help. For almost 60 years, they have provided Kenton County and Northern Kentucky with reliable, budget-friendly plumbing repairs. To schedule a visit and get a free estimate, call (859) 341-7755 or send a message online.