You are in Phoenix. We also have a Tucson site.

You are in Phoenix. We also have a Tucson site.

You are in Phoenix. We also have a Tucson site.

DIY Plumbing Fixes You Can Actually Do Yourself

fixing-pipe-under-sink-with-wrench-DIY

Last time on the Parker & Sons blog, we went over some keys to a successful DIY plumbing job. With those keys in mind and a well outfitted toolbox let’s take a look at several fixes you can tackle without needing to call us!

Fix a Leaky Pipe Using Epoxy Putty

A leaky pipe can cause plenty of damage if left unchecked. Here’s a simple fix that won’t require a professional or new pipes.

  1. Locate the leak
  2. Turn off the water supply (use the shut off valve)
  3. Dry the pipe
  4. Work the epoxy together and apply it around the pipe, allowing it to set
  5. After letting the epoxy set, turn the water supply on once more and check for any leaks.

Stop a Running Toilet

There are two probable causes for a running toilet, a deteriorating rubber flapper or the tank water level being set too high. Here’s how to fix both of them.

Replacing a Toilet Flapper

  1. As always, shut off the water to the toilet.
  2. Flush the toilet to drain the rest of the water in the tank.
  3. Remove the old rubber flapper from the bottom of the tank and the chain from the handle rod.
  4. Wipe off the rim of the tank drain.
  5. Install the new rubber flapper, attach the chain to the handle rod.
  6. Turn the water back on.
  7. Allow the tank to refill and wait for the toilet to stop running.

Adjusting the Water Level

  1. Remove the lid of the toilet tank.
  2. Adjust the float in the tank via adjustment screw or rod.
  3. Flush the toilet and wait for the tank to refill.
  4. Check the level to make sure it is below the overflow tube.
  5. Continue adjusting and filling the tank until correct.

Stopping a Leaky Faucet

Much like a running toilet, this is likely caused due to deteriorating rubber, at least in older models.

  1. As always, turn off the water to the fixture.
  2. Undo the decorative cap on the faucet handle.
  3. Remove the screw under the cap in the faucet handle.
  4. Pull the faucet handle off to expose the valve.
  5. Use a deep socket wrench to remove the valve from the faucet.
  6. Remove the screw holding the washer on the end of the valve.
  7. Replace the old washer with a new one.
  8. Wrap the valve thread with plumber’s tape.
  9. Screw the valve back to the faucet.
  10. Tighten the valve with the wrench.
  11. Replace the screw back to the valve.
  12. Replace the decorative cover back on the end of the handle.
  13. Turn the water back on and check for leaks.

This fix is mostly for older compression style faucets. If you have a newer ball or cartridge based faucet, it is likely easier to purchase a repair kit as opposed to repairing any single part.

Those are just a few DIY jobs you won’t need us for, but if you get in over your head, all of us at Parker & Sons are just a quick call away.

* Hats off to all you DIYers out there! At Parker & Sons, we love to see our customers taking pride in their homes. That said, home service professionals are 'professionals' for a reason. The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only. Parker & Sons is not liable for any injuries or damages resulting from attempting these DIY projects. By following these instructions, you assume all risks. For projects involving electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, consult a professional. Use this information at your own risk.

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