Solving your Common Bathroom Plumbing Problems
You rely on your plumbing system more than you realise, and it is only when things go wrong that you notice just how much you take it for granted. Your entire bathroom relies on your plumbing to function as it should, with the toilet, sink and bath or shower all linking to the water and drainage systems. As with everything, there are occasionally things that go wrong with your plumbing. Sometimes these are big things, that require professional help or advice, while some jobs are smaller, and can be dealt with quickly and easily without the need for outside intervention.
Blocked plug
Bathroom plugs often become blocked with a wonderful concoction of hair and soap scum. Sometimes the remedy for this is just as easy as removing any offending articles from the surface of the plughole. Unfortunately this is not always the case, and the debris can lodge itself further into the pipe work. If your sink is slow to drain you should first check the u-bend for build up of muck. The u-bend can be easily removed and emptied, and as long as you are sure to replace it tightly enough, this is a job you can do with no help. Once you have removed any offending items, flush through with warm water and your sink should drain much better. If there are still issues the problem is likely further along, and you will need to call someone for bathroom plumbing advice.
Blocked loo
A blocked toilet is one of life’s little taboos, and can be quite embarrassing if you have to call someone out to deal with it. There are a few things you can try before bringing in the experts though, which may save you a red face. Firstly, don’t flush more than once, as this will likely flood the bathroom, -yuk! Pour some warm, but not boiling, soapy water into the bowl, and the warmth should break up the blockage over a little time, ready to flush away. If this doesn’t work, try clearing the clog with an unravelled wire coat hanger. Pop a rag on the end to prevent any damage to the porcelain. The final thing you should try is a mix of baking powder and vinegar. The mixture fizzes and the reaction should break up and shift the blockage. Then, if all else fails, you’ll need to call in a professional.
Weak shower
Weak showers are often caused by a build up of limescale in the showerhead. Most are removable, so you can solve the problem by popping it off, and sitting in a bowl of limescale remover or vinegar. You will soon have a gleaming scale free shower that should run much stronger. If this doesn’t solve your problem, you may have an issue with water pressure and will need to use professional plumbing services from Dyno or other provider.
If you are experiencing minor plumbing problems in your home, always get some advice to establish whether it is something you can tackle yourself. If you are confident, and a professional has told you what to do, try the home remedy first. If this doesn’t improve the situation it is always best to get an expert in, rather than risk exacerbating the situation.
This article was written by Roxanne Wells on behalf of Dyno.