Professional Documents
Culture Documents
02 Let’s say you have an overflowing toilet that just won’t stop or
a busted pipe in your basement. Your first step is to shut off the BATHROOM
water at the source! Knowing where your emergency shut-off
valve is can save you some costly clean-up, water damage, and Check faucets
mold issues Test toilet
Check toilet wax ring
02 Tackling Toilet Clogs Caulk seals
Test shutoff valves
Stop the flow of water by disconnecting the chain in the tank
or by turning off the water at the valve at the back of the
toilet. Pour hot water—the hotter the better—into the bowl.
Inspect P-trap
Hot water and a little soap can also help break down a clog. KITCHEN
Clear drains
03 Tighten the Pipes Check faucets
Threads on your pipes get looser over time, which can lead to small
Test shutoff valves
leaks. For a quick DIY pipe tightener:
1. Turn off the water. Check garbage disposal
2. Unscrew the leaky pipes. Test the dishwasher
3. Wrap a single-layer of masking tape around the threads.
4. Screw the pipes back together.
Check refrigerator lines/filters
1.
04 Clear the Clogs
While we’re talking about disposals, let’s talk about clogs. These SEPTIC & SEWER
steps can help you de-clog your disposal in record time.
1. Turn off the power, either by unplugging or turning it off at the
Maintain septic system
circuit breaker.
2. Inspect the disposal with a flashlight. If you see an obvious Check sewer main
clog, clear it with any long and sturdy tool. Never use your Inspect vent pipes
2. fingers!
3. If you don’t see an obvious clog, use a sink plunger. Fill the sink
with a few inches of water and start plunging.
4. Use a DIY drain cleaner. Mix one part baking soda to one part
vinegar, and pour the solution down the drain. Wait about 30
minutes, then turn on the hot water for about 60 seconds.
AROUND THE
5. Turn the power back on and test it! Check water heater for leaks
HOUSE Branch shutoff valves
Check the sump pump
3. Check hose spigot
Lawn sprinkler systems
Inspect washing machine
hoses
Check home water pressure
PLUMBING TRIVIA! DID YOU KNOW?
Why are some manhole covers round?
A round manhole cover cannot fall
through its opening, whereas a square
manhole cover could be turned
diagonally and fall through.