Got a DIY project on your to-do list? Here are a few tips and tricks to save you time, money, and plumbing headaches.
How to prevent sprayer snarls
If the sprayer in your kitchen hose doesn’t seem to come up or down easily, it may be catching on the shutoff valves. To stop this from happening, wrap the pipes and shutoff handles in ½ inch foam pipe insulation. If necessary, tape it in place.
How to silence creaking pipes
Copper pipes can expand and grind against pipe hangers and joists when running hot water. To prevent this, cut adhesive-backed felt into strips and wrap around each pipe. You’ll need to remove each hanger to wrap the pipe and then refasten it.
How to quiet loud sinks
If you have two stainless sinks next to each other, you may notice excessive vibrations and a gong effect during use. Fill the space between the two sinks with expanding foam. It’s possible to do this with the sinks in place, but the project is easier if done before installation. After you’ve applied the foam, let it harden and then use a knife to trim away the excess.
How to remove hard objects from a drain
If you have a hard object like a comb, toothbrush, or toy in the toilet or drain, a plunger will only push the obstruction deeper. Instead, use a wet/dry shop vacuum to suck out the water and object.
How to flush with a bucket of water
If the toilet tank isn’t flushing properly, you can use a bucket of water instead. Simply fill a two gallon bucket with water and dump it into the bowl.
How to empty the trap
To remove a sink trap, use a plunger to push most of the water out of the trap. This will help reduce the mess when you pull out the trap. For a double sink, plug the other drain to contain the air pressure.
Snap a photo before closing up walls
After you’ve finished remodeling walls, floors, and ceilings, take a picture of what’s inside before closing it up. This will help you know where the framing, plumbing pipes, and electrical lines are for your next project.
Click here to see 8 beginner plumbing tips every homeowner should know