The plumbing jobs you can do by yourself

With the cost of living so expensive nowadays we are always looking for ways to save money. So if you can do basic plumbing repairs around the house then it could prove to be very useful as plumbing is so essential to the home when things like washing machines, hot showers, dishwashers do not work properly. There are some plumbing jobs which we should never attempt to do at home as they will always require the skill of an expert. However, if you are careful, practical and use your common sense you will be surprised how many plumbing projects you can handle on your own! Just like a skilled plumber you should also make sure you are kitted out properly for the job with eye protection, gloves and the right tools such as DIY plumbing kit.

Unblocking a pipe

A pipe can burst as a result of fracture or when it is frozen. The first thing you have to do to get things back to normal is turn off the water supply which is normally under the kitchen sink

When there is a fracture, clean the Balham area around the crack and then measure the length of area you need to patch up and the diameter of the pipe. Cut out the patch, that are used on pipes, at the correct length, then tighten the clamps to seal the leak. If this does not work it is advisable to call a plumber.

You are first alerted to the fact that your pipes are frozen when water is not flowing very well. When a pipe gets blocked by ice some of the water gets trapped in the pipe and as water expands pressure builds up eventually causing the pipe to burst. To solve the problem you have to defrost the blockage, this can only be achieved by feeling around the pipe until you reach a part that is colder than the rest, then use something like heat packs or a hair-dryer to defrost it. To prevent pipes freezing in the future check that your pipes are properly insulated, turn off any outdoor water taps, keep the heat on, and keep your water flowing well all winter.

Unblocking a toilet

Many of us have attempted this problem at home as it is possible to clear most blockages yourself without having to pay for plumber to come in. Firstly you need to put something on the floor in case of splashes and spillages that might happen. Wearing a pair of rubber gloves you need to plunge forcefully for a while down the basin using a large heavy duty plunger until you see signs of movement. If water is not going down don’t keep on flushing as it will cause the bowl to overflow. If it drains slowly, repeat the process. You could also try pouring some dish soap and tap hot water into it.

Cleaning a showerhead

When a shower head is clogged up it prevents the water running evenly as the tiny holes get filled up with deposits. Cleaning your showerhead on a regular basis will prevent the build up of such deposits. For a thorough clean remove the showerhead and remove any surface clogging such as hair from it. Try scrubbing the showerhead with an old toothbrush and use a solution like vinegar for the removal of dirt . Some people soak their shower head in a vinegar solution using a rubber band and plastic bag and this is a good idea if you are struggling to remove the showerhead. You could also try rinsing the showerhead by running it under the tap, this will rinse loosened debris out.