Most of the problems with a toilet fixture are simple clogs that can be solved with a plunger and some elbow grease. When the plumbing breaks down, however, it may be necessary to repair toilet parts or entirely replace the fixture. You only need a few household tools to do the job and any replacement parts can easily be purchased at nearby retail stores. A seat replacement, for example, requires only unscrewing the broken piece and screwing in a new seat.
The first step to repair toilet problems lies in the tank underneath the lid. The plumbing may work fine, but if the parts are jammed or out of sync, they must be fixed first. If your tank is stuck and is not filling with the water that will drain into the bowl, examine the stopper at the bottom to ensure that it is not out of place. If the chain to the stopper is caught, or if the stopper does not close all the way, a tank will not fill. When you repair toilet tank problems, you usually do not need to replace any parts.
If an object has been lodged within the pipe and cannot be removed by plunging, you do not necessarily need to call a plumber. Using a snake to pull out the clog will not cost a hefty fee, but requires getting your hands dirty. Use a coat hanger or similar piece of thin metal with a hook to reach into the pipe and pull back to dislodge the obstruction. If you cannot get a hold of the clog, you will have to remove part of the pipe. Turn off the water supply to the fixtures and unscrew the circular pipe leading into the plumbing. Use a solid object like a stick or plastic tube to repair toilet fixtures by pushing out the obstruction.
When the fixture starts and stops running water, the problem usually involves a slow leak. This is the most dreaded problem when having to repair toilet parts, because you have to figure out where it comes from. Put a dye tablet in the tank and check an hour later to see if the bowl has the same color. Drain the tank and check for leaks. Use caulk to plug any leaks. If the drain is in your pipe, you will have to replace the pipe part or seal it with a blowtorch.
There are five simple ways to know when it is time to replace the old water heater with a sleek, shiny new model. Each of these is a sure sign that it’s time to act before the problem gets worse.
1. When there is no more hot water coming from the water heater. This can happen suddenly. Overnight the old heater stops working and in the morning the water is cold. No one can shower. Or, the problem could come on gradually with a slow reduction of water temperature or widely fluctuating temperatures ranging from barely warm to scalding hot. Although the problem may be upper and lower heating elements or the thermostat that regulates the unit’s water temperature, these units have a life expectancy of only 13 years. Replacing older units instead of repairing them is a wise financial decision.
2. When the hot water heater is leaking. The unit corrodes and begins to drip water. The pressure release valve begins to malfunction. Lucky homeowners discover the problem when they notice a slow drip or a small puddle of water, while unlucky homeowners discover flooded basements or hallways and have to deal with water cleanup.
3. When the hot water heater begins to rust. The normally clean, cool clear water begins to look, smell or taste funny from the hot water tap. Internal problems cause the metal inside of the tank to rust. The water coming from the heating unit is discolored and stains fabrics, plastics and sinks.
4. When the homeowner’s water needs change. As families expand, more hot water is needed for morning showers, personal hygiene, laundry and dishwashing. A larger tank lets everyone bathe in comfort. And when the last child has left for college, water usage will obviously go down. Replacing a large, older water heater with a smaller size saves money.
5. When homeowners are concerned with energy efficiency. According to Energy Star, the energy used in a typical home by the water heater energy is only exceeded by the heating and cooling. A more efficient unit reduces energy costs every month. There are two costs to consider: the purchase price and the utility bill. Comparing energy demands between an older inefficient model and a new energy smart heater shows homeowners how much money they can save a year by switching to a new model.
There are few events more frustrating than a clogged drain. Often occurring slowly over time, a slow or clogged drain is one of those occurrences that can easily be brushed aside until the situation reaches a point of no return. At this point most people, in their desperation, will turn to harmful chemicals as the quickest fix for treating a clogged drain. (more…)
Approximately twenty-five percent of homes in America operate with septic systems, as opposed to being connected to the main sewage pipes in their municipalities. While septic systems have been an effective form of human waste on-site storage facility, or decentralized waste water treatment system, for decades, many homeowners still lack the basic knowledge necessary to ensure a long-lasting, safe and cost-effective system. The following paragraphs will offer some basic septic maintenance information. Heeding this advice will not only help to reduce the risk of a system malfunction and costly repairs; it will also help to keep your septic system healthy in the long run, saving you time and money. (more…)
Sewer lines represent the ultimate repair threat to a defenseless homeowner. In many localities, it is illegal to work on one without a plumbing license. Even in those areas where it is permitted, replacement is a dangerous, expensive job that involves the use of lots of heavy equipment and deep trenches filled with very unsavory liquids.
As a result, even if you do it yourself, repairs tend to be hair-raisingly expensive in those instances where their replacement is truly necessary. Five figure estimates are relatively common, and costs can go even higher once the job begins and additional obstacles are uncovered. It is perhaps best to begin by discussing what sorts of hazards cause failures in septic and sewer lines. (more…)
By: Alisa Manzelli
As many homeowners are renovating their bathrooms, they are simultaneously upgrading their bath tubs. With the increase in popularity of whirlpool spas and even home entertainment tubs, there is obviously the need to keep up-to-date with advancing bathtub technology. However, installing bath tubs is not the easiest task as it requires meticulous time and care. (more…)
During kitchen renovations, most homeowners get intimidated by the details and end up overpaying contractors for simple tasks. While some aspects of home renovation, such as electric wiring and complicated plumbing, are best left to the experts, others can easily be accomplished with the help of a few basic tools and some insider information. Sink installation is one of those simple tasks. Below, you will find some helpful install sink tips that will allow you to save money and enjoy a great finished product. (more…)
The choice to renovate your bathroom can add value to your home as well as design. When you have budgeted plumbing renovations, the choice of whether to perform the work yourself or hire a professional contractor can be a difficult one.
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By: Kelly Goldthorpe
You may have learned some natural cleaning methods from your parents, but when it comes to bathroom plumbing most people don’t know that there are some effective techniques that you can use. The clogged drain is a problem which persists in any household, especially in those with long-haired occupants. To clear an obstructed pipe you don’t need to purchase toxic gels, instead you can use household products for an eco-friendly approach. (more…)
By: Danielle McVicar
A bathtub is one of the key components of any bathroom, and choosing one deserves a great deal of consideration and thought. There are many different styles of bathtubs available, each offering different benefits. Determine your budget, size requirements and how you want to use your tub before examining the following styles further. (more…)
