Plumbing issues are one of those things most of us will face at some point. Maybe you’ve spotted a leaky tap, or the shower’s suddenly decided to go cold. In the spirit of getting stuck in, it’s tempting to try and fix these problems yourself.
A quick Google search can make almost anyone feel like a DIY plumbing pro. But when it comes to plumbing, knowing when to tackle an issue and when to call a professional plumber is really important. Some problems are easy to sort out yourself, while others are better left to experts.
Unblocking Toilets and Sinks
Blocked toilets and sinks are some of the most frustrating – and common – plumbing issues. If you’re searching for advice on how to unblock a toilet, you’re not alone. Luckily, most blockages can be resolved with a bit of patience and the right approach.
Start by grabbing a plunger.
It’s not glamorous, but it’s the quickest and most effective tool for the job. Place it over the drain hole, make sure it’s sealed tight, and give it a few firm pumps. If the blockage clears, you’re good to go. Still clogged? You could try a drain snake or an eco-friendly drain-cleaning solution. Check out our dedicated blog about how to unblock a sink to find out more.
If the water is refusing to budge, or you’re seeing it back up into the sink or shower, it’s time to step away. This could mean a bigger issue further down the pipes, and forcing the matter could easily make things worse. A professional plumber will have the tools and know-how to fix the problem without causing damage to your plumbing system.
Can Low Water Pressure Be Fixed at Home?
Nobody likes a weak shower, and low water pressure is more often than not the culprit. Before you book a plumber, there are a few things you can try to solve yourself.
First, check your taps.
Is the pressure low across the board or just in one spot? If it’s the latter, you might have a clogged aerator. Unscrew the aerator from the end of the tap, give it a clean, and see if that does the trick.
If the pressure is low in more than one area, it’s worth checking the stopcock (the main water valve). Sometimes, it’s not fully open, especially after plumbing work or maintenance. Turn it all the way on and see if the pressure improves.
Note: We advise doing this gradually to avoid any damage to the system.
Still no luck?
Low water pressure can be a warning sign of much bigger issues like a hidden leak, corroded pipes, or problems with your mains supply. At this point, it’s time to call a plumber. Ignoring these problems can lead to larger (and more expensive) issues down the line.
Is it Easy to Fix Leaking Taps?
A dripping tap isn’t just annoying – it can waste gallons of water over time. Most leaks are caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals, which are pretty easy to replace.
Before you start, make sure you turn off your water supply first. Then, unscrew the tap, identify the damaged part, and swap it out for a new one. If you’re confident with a spanner, this is usually a 20-minute job.
If the leak persists or the issue is coming from the base of the tap, it might be more complicated than it looks. Poorly fixed taps can cause water to seep into surrounding surfaces, leading to mould and damage. If in doubt, get in touch.
Never Try to Fix Burst Pipes Yourself.
Burst pipes are pretty much the worst plumbing emergency you can have. They can cause flooding, damage your property, and rack up serious repair bills if not addressed quickly.
If a pipe bursts:
1. Turn off your home’s water supply at the stopcock.
2. Call a plumber straight away – our emergency number is 01420 571000.
3. Drain the system by running all the taps in your house until no water comes out. This will help minimise water damage while you wait for help.
Burst pipes are one of those situations where a professional plumber is your only option. They’ll repair or replace the damaged section and check for any other vulnerabilities in your system.
Regular Maintenance Goes a Long Way
One of the best ways to avoid expensive plumbing repairs is to stay on top of regular maintenance. Check your pipes and fittings for signs of wear and tear, keep an eye out for leaks, and don’t ignore minor issues. Small problems, like low water pressure or a dripping tap, can snowball into bigger headaches if left unchecked. It’s also worth getting a plumber out to check your plumbing once in a while, too, to see if any preventative measures can be taken.
Don’t Want to Risk DIY Plumbing? Get in Touch With ECS Today!
Struggling with a plumbing issue? Whether it’s a blocked toilet, low water pressure, or an unexpected leak, our expert engineers are here to help. Book an appointment today or contact us for quick, reliable service. Let’s get things flowing smoothly again.
FAQs
Can I unblock a toilet without a plunger?
Yes, you can try using a bucket of hot water and pouring it into the bowl from waist height. This can sometimes break up the blockage. Failing that, a drain snake or a professional plumber can help.
Why is my water pressure low in one tap?
A clogged aerator is often the culprit. Remove it, clean it, and reattach it. If the problem persists, there might be a deeper issue with your pipes.
What should I do if my tap is leaking from the base?
Turn off the water supply and check if the fitting is loose. If tightening it doesn’t work, it’s likely a seal or washer issue that may need a plumber’s expertise.
Is it safe to attempt DIY plumbing?
Yes, for small tasks like replacing a washer or unblocking a sink. For anything more complex, or if you’re unsure, it’s safer to call a professional.
What’s the fastest way to stop a burst pipe from causing damage?
Turn off the water at the stopcock and open all taps to drain the system. Then, contact an emergency plumber immediately.
Further Reading
- Why Regular Plumbing Maintenance is Important
- Plumbing Problems to Look Out for When You’re Moving House
- How to Unblock a Sink
- How to Top Up Your Boiler
