Plumbing Tips

  1. Toilet Bowl Overflowing:
    1. Do Not Flush
    2. Bail out half the water, dislodge clog with plunger and flush.
  2. Toilet Running:
    1. Shake flush handle to free chain.
    2. Remove tank lid and gently raise float ball until water stops running.
    3. If water continues to run, turn off shut off valve.
    4. Inspect for broken or worn parts; replace parts as neccesary.
  3. Leaks from spout:
    1. Remove trim cap, handle screw, handle and sleeve (may require penetrating oil to loosen).
    2. Unscrew stem assembly from faucet body and remove retaining screw.
    3. Replace worn washer with identical new washer.
    4. Reassemble.
  4. Weak or uneven pressure from shower head:
    1. To protect chrome, unscrew shower head with tape-wrapped channel-joint pliers.
    2. Soak shower head in vinegar to loosen mineral deposits, or replace with a new shower head. (Since a shower can account for one-third or more of all household water consumption, consider installing a water-conserving shower head.)
  5. Water pouring from water heater:
    1. Turn off the water supply valve on the water heater or close main water shutoff valve.
    2. For a gas water heater, turn off the gas shutoff valve on the unit.
    3. For an electric water heater, turn off power at service panel; then unplug the unit if it is not directly connected to your home's wiring.
    4. Water will continue to run out until the water heater is empty.
  6. Object dropped down sink:
    1. Place bucket under trap.
    2. Do not run water in sink.
    3. Carefully remove trap under sink and remove object from trap.
    4. Replace trap and secure slip nuts.


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