15 Plumbing Hacks Every Weekend Plumber Should Know

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Taking on home plumbing projects can be rewarding and challenging, especially for people eager to tackle DIY tasks. Armed with these 15 essential hacks, even the most novice weekend plumber can confidently conquer common household plumbing woes.

Tape It Right

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Teflon tape is your go-to for sealing line connections. The thin, white strip wraps around the threads, filling in gaps and preventing leaks. Remember, always wrap it clockwise to ensure a tight seal. You’ll say goodbye to those pesky drips and dribbles with this item.

WD-40 Magic

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When lines are stubbornly stuck, WD-40 comes to the rescue; it penetrates rust and corrosion, making it easier to loosen tight joints. After a quick spray and a few minutes to penetrate, your wrench turns smoothly, saving you time and frustration.

Sink Plunger Tricks

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For those tough clogs, reach for a sink plunger. Unlike standard plungers, they have a narrower profile, creating a tighter seal around the drain. After a few plunges, you’ll clear the blockage and have everything draining freely again.

DIY Drain Cleaner

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Rather than harsh chemicals, opt for a natural drain cleaner. Baking soda and vinegar can break down gunk and debris in drains. Follow up with hot water to flush everything away, leaving drains fresh and clear.

Hair Catcher

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Install a hair catcher to keep drains flowing as they trap hair before it can create a clog, saving you the unpleasant task of fishing them out of the drain. It’s a simple solution to a common problem.

Rubber Gloves Rule

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Chemicals and germs can cause damage to your hands if you don’t wear rubber gloves. Whether you’re handling cleaning agents or dirty conduits, gloves provide a barrier against skin irritation and contamination. Plus, they’re easy to clean and reusable for future projects.

Bucket Brigade

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A bucket is a technician’s best friend. Whenever possible, place a bucket underneath to catch leaks and prevent messes. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain a tidy workspace and minimize cleanup time.

Shut-off Valve Savvy

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Locating the shut-off valves can save you from a disaster. An emergency leak or burst line damage to the house if you don’t shut off the supply quickly. Take the time to locate and label all shut-off valves for peace of mind.

Pipe Insulation

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Don’t let freezing temperatures wreak havoc on your conduits. Insulate unheated abode areas to prevent lines from freezing and bursting. In addition to protecting against costly repairs, insulation is inexpensive and easy to install.

Vinegar Descaling

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Mineral deposits that build up in faucets and showerheads over time can affect hydro-flow and pressure. To combat the buildup, soak fixtures in vinegar overnight. Vinegar’s acidic properties break down the minerals, leaving fixtures sparkling clean and functioning optimally.

Plumber’s Putty Power

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This is the secret weapon when installing or repairing fixtures like sinks and drains. The moldable sealant creates a tight seal, preventing leaks and ensuring a professional-looking finish. Using it can help you tackle these tasks confidently.

Toilet Troubleshooting

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If the toilet keeps running, the culprit might be a faulty flapper valve. This rubber component controls the flow from the tank to the bowl. Sometimes, a simple flapper valve adjustment or replacement is all it takes to fix a running toilet.

Hot Water Heater Flush

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Perform an annual flush to extend the life of the water heater. A tank full of sediment at the bottom decreases efficiency and increases the risk of damage. When sediment is removed when the tank is flushed, the heater runs more efficiently and lasts longer.

Pipe Cutter Precision

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Say goodbye to uneven cuts and jagged edges with a pipe cutter. This handy tool lets you make clean, precise cuts, making these projects easier and more professional-looking. It can easily cut copper, PVC, or steel piping.

Emergency Repair Kit

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Be prepared for plumbing emergencies with a well-stocked repair kit. Include essentials like pipe tape, adjustable wrenches, and plumber’s putty to tackle common issues on the spot. A repair kit will always come in the clutch to quickly handle unexpected leaks and repairs.

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