When saving money on home repairs, few things are as satisfying as a successful DIY plumbing job. From fixing a leaky faucet to unclogging a drain, any homeowner can do plenty of simple fixes with the right know-how. These DIY jobs are a great way to avoid the high cost of hiring a professional. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most straightforward DIY plumbing jobs.
Check the Washing Machine Hoses
The laundry room is a common place for leaks and water damage to occur. Your washing machine is fitted with hoses, one for hot water, another for cold, and a drain hose. Over time, these hoses can deteriorate and develop cracks, leading to leaks. Check your washing machine hoses and replace them when necessary, usually ever three to five years.
Replace a Toilet Seat
If your toilet seat is cracked, chipped, or needs replacement, it’s easy to do it yourself. Just make sure you get the right size seat for your toilet. Remove the seat by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. If the bolts have rusted, you may need a hacksaw to cut them off. Once the old seat is off, clean the area around the holes, and install the new one.
Installing a Showerhead is a Simple DIY Plumbing Task
If you’re looking for an easy way to update your bathroom, installing a new showerhead is a great option. It’s a simple job, and you can enjoy a new showerhead with great water pressure. Start this project by removing the old showerhead. To do this, unscrew the retaining nut with a wrench, then pull the showerhead off. Remove the old showerhead and remove the old plumber’s putty or Teflon tape before installing the new fixture. Attach the new showerhead, then turn on the water to test it.
Change a Sink Stopper
Replacing a sink stopper is an easy DIY fix; start by removing the old plug. To do this, unscrew the knob at the top of the stopper, then pull out the lift rod. Next, use a wrench to remove the retaining nut that holds the stopper in place. Once the old piece is out, clean up the area around the drain before installing the new one.
Preventive DIY Plumbing: Tighten Pipes
If you’re noticing leaks around your pipes, tightening them up is a good idea. Begin by shutting off the water to the area, then locate the leaky joint. Once you’ve found it, tighten the fitting with a wrench. If that doesn’t stop the leak, you may need to replace the gasket or washer.
Following these simple tips, you can easily tackle DIY plumbing jobs. Remember to take proper safety precautions and shut off the water before starting any project. With some guidance, you’ll be able to save money and take pride in your home by handling minor plumbing problems.
Boston Light Home Inspections provides inspection services in Massachusetts. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an appointment.