8 DIY Plumbing Tips That Can Help to Save You Money
Calling in a plumber can be an expensive business, but for the DIY minded out there; there is money to be saved. There are a few simple procedures that can be carried out, rather than calling for a plumber straight away. Why not give them a try and save your hard earned cash for the more fun things in life. If all else fails and you really do need to call a professional, Plumbers London are available to take care of all your plumbing needs.
Do you know where your main water valve is and how to close it?
Simply knowing how to close the main water valve for your building can save a fortune in water damage. It is well worth familiarizing yourself in the event of a potential flood the whereabouts of your main water valve. This can be easily checked with your water supplier. Keep in mind that some valves may require a tool to close it.
How to check your toilet for leaks and running water
A simple check can be carried out to establish if your toilet has a leak. Add a few drops of food colouring to the tank. Wait about 15 minutes; then check the colour of the water in the toilet bowl. If the colour in the bowl is the same as in the tank, then you have a leak.
Check for leaks
The simplest way to detect a leak in your house is to check the meter. Do not use any water for an hour, and then recheck. If the meter has changed you probably have a leak.
Prevent your drains getting blocked
Remember that prevention is better than cure. To avoid clogging up your kitchen sink in the first place, avoid putting oils, fat and general food waste down the drain as much as possible. In the bathroom make sure you have a shower or tub strainer to stop the drains getting clogged up with hair.
Unblock kitchen sink
If your sink is blocked and you need a drain unblocker, you don’t have to use hazardous chemicals to unblock it, you can try a simple plunger or failing that try putting half a cup of baking soda down the drain with half a cup of white vinegar. An acidic reaction should occur to help unblock the sink which should be followed with some hot water. A metal wire hanger can also be used to fish out the culprits clogging up your sink.
Stop a running toilet
If you have a running toilet, all you need to do is to replace the ball cock (this controls the flushing system). You can purchase one in any hardware store and the instructions will come with it. For the DIY minded this can be done with relative ease and will save you a chunk of money as opposed to calling a professional to come and do it for you.
Purchase materials yourself
This will save you precious pounds since purchasing materials will not eat into your plumber’s time and consequently clock up your final bill. Also, your local plumber could well charge a premium on your goods for this service.
Maintain your heating system before the cold weather kicks in
Make sure your heating system is in full working order before the cold weather kicks in. Being left with no heating or hot water in the throes of a harsh winter as well as the hefty emergency plumbing bill that follows with it is no fun, but can be easily avoided with a few checks and some preventative measures.
