Plumbing Hints & Tips

Tackle Your Own Plumbing Issues With Our Tips and Hints

From inspection to repairs and new installations to intensive deep cleaning, we are your go-to plumbers for any need. We are fully licensed (Lic# 852708) to guarantee the highest quality service for your home. Call us today to request a same-day appointment.

Mend a Leaking or Broken Pipe

Turn off the main shutoff valve to prevent water from damaging the area.
Make temporary repairs to stop the leak. A piece of bicycle inner tube or garden hose with a hose clamp around it will allow you to turn the water on temporarily until the plumber arrives.
The pipe will have to be replaced as soon as it's convenient to do so.

Fix a Faucet That Will Not Shut Off

Immediately turn off the water at the fixture shutoff valve underneath the sink.
If there's no valve there, turn off the main shutoff.
Repair the faucet or, if necessary, replace it.

Unclog a Stopped-Up Sink

Shut off any faucet or appliance (such as dishwasher) draining into the sink.
Unclog the sink using a plunger or snake.
DON'T use a chemical drain cleaner if the line is completely blocked.

Maintain Your Toilet When Faced With a Variety of Issues

If you are experiencing a noisy toilet, check for restricted water flow and a defective ball cock assembly. To repair your noisy toilet, do the following:

Adjust the shutoff valve first.
Oil the trip lever or replace the ball cock washers.
Replace the entire ball cock assembly.
CAUTION: First, turn off the water at the fixture shutoff valve. Then flush the toilet to empty the tank and sponge out any remaining water.

If You Are Experiencing a Running Toilet, Check For:

The float arm is not rising high enough.
Water-filled float ball.
The tank stopper is not sitting properly.
Corroded flush valve seal.
Cracked overflow tube.
The ball cock valve doesn't shut off.

Remedies for a Running Toilet Include:

Bend the float arm down or away from the tank wall.
Replace ball.
Adjust the stopper guide rod and lift wires or chain. Replace the defective stopper.
Scour valve seat or replace.
Replace the tube or install a new flush valve assembly.
Oil trip lever, replace faulty washers, or install new ball cock assembly.