Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions
When you have a plumbing issue, the last thing you want is to be left confused. When something goes wrong with your pipes, it can be frustrating and stressful. Whether it's an overflowing toilet or a slow-draining sink, these problems seem to always happen at the worst possible time. However, don't worry! We've put together a list of commonly asked plumbing questions along with their answers for when you're faced with these issues in your home.
How Do I Clean a Clogged Toilet?
If you're having trouble with a clogged toilet, there are a few ways to fix it. The first step is to use a plunger. Plungers can be found in any hardware store, and they help push water through the pipes so that they're clear again. One helpful thing that many people may not know is that there are plungers meant for toilets and plungers meant for sinks.
The traditional, red suction cup-topped plunger is actually meant for sinks. Its shape forms a great seal in a sink but fails to do so with the curving geometry of a toilet. The larger plungers with a flange are the plungers meant for your toilet. The shape of these plungers allows them to fit firmly and seal in your toilet, giving you the maximum unclogging power.
If your plunger doesn't work, try using an auger (also called a "snake"). An auger looks like an oversized drill bit--and works similarly: You stick it into your drainpipe and twist it until all of the waste material has been removed from inside the pipe itself.
If neither of those methods works for you, it may be time to reach out for professional help. Thankfully, our professionals here at Epperson are just one phone call away!
What to do if My Toilet is Overflowing?
An overflowing toilet is one of everyone’s nightmare plumbing situations. Watching as toilet water spills over the seat and onto your floors is terrifying, especially if you have no idea how to stop it. Thankfully, getting your toilet to stop overflowing is simple.
First, stop flushing. If the toilet is clogged and you’ve already flushed a few times, flushing again is only going to add more water that won't go anywhere except onto your floor. Next, push the flapper closed. This is located in the top toilet tank and looks like a rubber circle that will be attached to a chain or lever. Pushing it down will prevent any more water from flowing into the bowl. You can also rig the float in that tank so that it will stop moving, preventing the flapper from being reopened. Finally, shut off the toilet’s water valve, which will prevent any more water from getting into your toilet. From here, you can unclog the toilet normally, or call in professionals to get it looked at.
How Do I Know If I Need Water Line Repairs or Replacements?
If you have a leak, it's probably a water line
repair. If you have a burst pipe, it's probably a water line
replacement. And if you have an ongoing slow leak that seems to be getting worse over time instead of better--well, then we might just be looking at two different things!
If your pipes have been in place for many years and are showing signs of age or wear (such as rust stains), this could be an indication that they need replacing soon anyway. However, if they're still working well enough but start leaking all of a sudden out of nowhere, then there's likely something wrong with the joints of the plumbing. This issue can be fixed just by repairs, but depending on the extent of wear, a replacement may be a better idea. Small leaks and dips in water pressure may warrant just a line repair, but major leaks and no water signal that a replacement is in order.
Interior Pipes Can Freeze, Too
Don’t just focus on your exterior water pipes when it comes to those that can freeze. Your interior pipes in colder parts of your home are also at risk. However, we are here to help you avoid that risk so that you can be comfortable in your home. You can choose to have our professional pipe insulation installed to keep your home safe and protected, even when the temperature drops. This helps avoid the inconvenience and expense that comes with damaged pipes. Give us a call with any of your plumbing concerns, and we can ensure that you take all the necessary steps to keep your home in the best condition possible.
Conclusion
To sum it up, plumbing problems can be frustrating to deal with. But the good news is that there are many ways to prevent them from happening in the first place! If you have any questions about how to keep your home's pipes running smoothly, please feel free to contact us here at Epperson Inc! Our professional plumbers are ready to help you with any of your plumbing problems. We are located at 112 W University Drive, Somerset, KY. Don’t hesitate to call us at (606) 679-7476 or contact us online for any of your plumbing, HVAC, or electric needs!
