Tackling plumbing problems is an inherent aspect of homeownership. Whether it's a clogged drain, a leaky faucet, or a sluggish toilet, these issues, although common, can still be frustrating and disruptive.
The good news is that while some plumbing problems require professional intervention, many are surprisingly easy to resolve or even prevent. With only a few basic household items, you too can become a plumber and DIY quick-fix plumbing.
So leave your toolbox aside and grab some items from your pantry instead.
The Problem: Toilet Clogs |
The Household Items Needed: White Vinegar and Dish Soap
Toilet clogs are a common nuisance, especially in households with children who may flush non-disposable items. Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your toilet clogg-free. Luckily, some simple tricks can help prevent and address clogs — and these unclogging toilet methods don't even require a plunger.
To prevent sediment buildup that can lead to clogs, pour a quarter cup of white vinegar into your toilet tank once a week. This helps dissolve mineral deposits that can cause obstructions.
If you notice a slow-draining toilet, it's best to address it promptly before it escalates into a larger plumbing repair problem. First, pour dish soap into the toilet and flush. The slippery soap acts as a lubricant for the clogged pipes, allowing debris to slide down more easily. If you don't have liquid soap, a soap bar will do just fine. Chop it into small pieces and drop them into the toilet. If soap alone doesn't work, try adding more water. Fill a bucket with hot water and pour it into the toilet from waist height. The force of the water can dislodge the clog.
The Problem: Clogged Kitchen Sink |
The Household Items Needed: Baking Soda and Salt / Lemon Juice
Even if you primarily use a dishwasher, kitchen sink drains can still get clogged from grease, organic waste, and other food or packaging items stuck in the system (read more about what not to put down your drains, toilet, and garbage disposal). To prevent clogs, ensure that solid items are disposed of in the trash, not the sink.
If you notice water backing up in your sink and the garbage disposal doesn't help, here are two quick plumbing repairs for you to try, both using natural drain cleaners to avoid using chemicals.
Option 1: Baking Soda & Salt
- Mix half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of table salt.
- Por down the drain and wait at least 30 minutes (the longer, the better).
- For stubborn clogs, rinse with tepid water.
The salt breaks down grease, and its abrasive texture scrubs the inside of the pipe, helping to clear the clog.
Option 2: Baking Soda & Lemon Juice
If you prefer the smell of lemon juice from your kitchen drain system, follow these steps:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda, followed by half a cup of lemon juice down the drain.
- Plug the drain and let sit for one hour.
- Finish with a pot of boiling water.
The Problem: Hair Stuck in the Shower Drain | The Household Items Needed: Dryer Sheet & Hanger
Hair stuck in bath or shower drains is undeniably the most common cause of blockages in these areas. Most women have likely encountered this issue at some point, and even men may have been tasked with clearing such clogs.
There are several strategies to prevent clogged shower drains before they happen, but one quick fix plumbing trick our clients are always surprised to discover is placing a dryer sheet over the drain. The porous sheet will let water pass through while trapping hair. You can even use a scented sheet for a pleasant aroma in your shower.
If you notice slow draining, there may already be enough hair accumulated. To remove it without opening the drain, try using a hanger. Straighten out the hanger into a long, slightly curved stick and gently insert it into the drain to pull out the trapped hair.
The Problem: Clogged Showerheads |
The Household Items Needed: Vinegar, Baking Soda, and A Toothbrush
Imagine a hot summer day when you want to take a cold shower, but instead, you're standing under a weak stream of water, waiting for a refreshing burst that never comes. This issue is often caused by a clogged showerhead, which reduces water pressure and flow.
Before rushing out to buy a new showerhead, do know that this is a simple plumbing problem that can be resolved with a simple plumbing repair.
Soak the showerhead in a mixture of half a cup of white vinegar and two tablespoons of baking soda. You can either unscrew the showerhead and immerse it in the mixture or secure a plastic bag filled with the mixture around the showerhead using a rubber band or twist tie. Let it soak overnight to dissolve any mineral buildup. The next day, use an old toothbrush to scrub away any remaining debris from the showerhead holes, then rinse thoroughly.
When DIY Won't Cut It, Call the Pros
While these homemade plumbing repairs can be effective for minor clogs and blockages, it's important to remember that some plumbing issues may require the expertise of a professional. If you've tried these DIY solutions and the problem persists, or if you encounter a more complex plumbing issue, it's best to call a licensed plumber. At Ken's Plumbing, our team is equipped to handle any plumbing repair, providing top-notch service and ensuring your home's plumbing is in perfect working order. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs.
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