Economy Plumbing Service, LLC

Jan 29, 2024

Plumbing is the unsung hero of our homes, silently whisking away waste and delivering fresh water whenever we need it. Until something goes wrong, most of us take it for granted; that is, until a faucet starts dripping, a drain gurgles ominously, or, worst of all, a pipe bursts. Here’s some advice from your plumbing repair specialist in Tucson, AZ.

The Art of Plumbing Repair: 5 Tips from the Pros

The Art of Plumbing Repair: 5 Tips from the Plumbing Repair Pros in Tucson, AZ

1. Know Your Tools

Before you dive into any repairs, you need the right tools on hand. A basic plumbing toolkit should include things like:

  • Adjustable wrench to grip and turn nuts and bolts of various sizes
  • Plunger, which can clear most basic clogs
  • Pipe wrench specifically designed for gripping and turning pipes and fittings
  • Teflon tape, which seals pipe threads to prevent leaks
  • Drain snake: a long, flexible cable can reach deep into drains to remove stubborn clogs
  • Bucket and towels, which are useful for catching spills or leaks

2. Shut Off the Water Supply

Before you start working on any plumbing fixture, the first thing you should always do is turn off the water supply. This will prevent further damage and make the repairs much safer. Look for the shut-off valve under the sink or behind the toilet you are working on. If you can’t find it, turn off the main water supply valve to your house.

3. Tackle the Simple Stuff First

Many common plumbing problems have simple fixes. For example, a leaky faucet might just need a new washer. A clogged drain might be cleared with a plunger. Before you call a plumber, try these DIY solutions first. You might be surprised at what you can fix yourself!

4. When in Doubt, Call a Pro

If you’re not comfortable tackling the repair yourself, or if the problem is beyond your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. We have the experience and expertise to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

The last thing you want to do is make things worse, and in some cases, though you might be able to fix the problem, a DIY fix would waste an enormous amount of your time when a pro could get it done in just a few moments.

5. Preventative Maintenance Is Key

The best way to avoid plumbing problems in the first place is to practice preventative maintenance. This includes things like:

  • Clean drains regularly by pouring a cup of vinegar and baking soda down the drain each month to help break up soap scum and hair
  • Avoid putting grease and food scraps down the drain.
  • Watch small children: don’t allow them to drop toys or excessive amounts of paper into drains or toilets

By following these tips, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the line. A little knowledge and preventative care can go a long way in the world of plumbing! And if you run into any problems you’re uncomfortable fixing yourself, contact us right away at Economy Plumbing Service in Tucson, AZ.