When it comes to plumbing work, calling a professional is always smart. But specific plumbing tasks can be undertaken with simple DIY work. All you need is some basic know-how and specific everyday plumbing tools, and you are good to go. The tools you can find at your nearby store and knowledge, that’s what we are here to deliver. Learn a few DIY plumbing projects you can tackle at home with our plumbers in Burwood, VIC, including the step-by-step working procedure.
Let’s get started.
Fixing a Leaky faucet
Fixing a leaky faucet is a common plumbing problem that can waste a lot of water and money if left untreated.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you fix a leaky faucet:
What Do You Need?
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement washers and O-rings
- Plumber’s grease
Steps:
- Turn off the shut-off valve under the sink to stop the water supply.
- Remove the faucet’s handle by unscrewing the set screw that holds it in place.
- Use a wrench to remove the packing nut holding the faucet assembly.
- Carefully remove the faucet assembly and lay out the parts in the order you remove them.
- Inspect the washer and O-ring at the base of the stem assembly. These parts are often the cause of leaks.
- Replace all damaged parts with new ones. Make sure to use the correct size and type of replacement parts.
- Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new washers and O-rings before reassembling the faucet.
- Reassemble the faucet in the reverse order in which you took it apart.
- Check the faucets for leaks.
If you’re still experiencing leaks after attempting to fix the faucet, or if you encounter any problems during the repair process, it’s best to contact our professional plumbers in Burwood for assistance.
Unclogging Drains
Clogged drains can be a frustrating plumbing problem, but they can usually be cleared with a few simple steps.
What Do You Need?
- Plunger
- Drain snake (optional)
- Rubber gloves
Steps:
- First, remove any visible debris from the drain. This can be done with your fingers or a pair of pliers.
- Fill the sink with water.
- Cover the overflow hole with a damp rag if you’re unclogging a sink.
- Position the plunger over the drain and push down gently to create a seal. Then, pump the plunger up and down vigorously, quickly and forcefully.
- If the clog doesn’t clear with the plunger, try using a drain snake. Insert the end of the snake into the drain and turn the handle clockwise to feed it into the pipe. Keep turning the handle until you feel resistance, then turn it counterclockwise to remove the clog.
- If the clog still doesn’t clear, you may need to remove the trap under the sink. Place a bucket underneath to catch any water or debris, then use pliers to remove the nuts holding the trap. Once the trap is removed, clear any debris and replace the trap.
- After clearing the clog, run hot water down the drain for a few minutes to help flush out any remaining debris.
If the problem persists, call our expert plumbers in Burwood for help.
Installing a Toilet
Installing a toilet may seem daunting, but it’s a relatively straightforward process that you can undertake on your own.
What Do You Need?
- New toilet
- Wax ring
- Toilet bolts and caps
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Caulking gun and silicone caulk
Steps:
- Shut off the water supply to the toilet by turning off the shut-off valve located behind the toilet.
- Remove the old toilet and any old wax from the flange and the toilet’s base.
- Install the new wax ring onto the flange, ensuring it is centered.
- Install the toilet bolts into the flange, ensuring they align with the toilet’s mounting holes.
- Carefully lower the toilet onto the flange, ensuring the bolts pass through the mounting holes.
- Apply pressure to the toilet, pressing it down onto the wax ring until it is seated firmly on the floor.
- Tighten the nuts onto the toilet bolts, being careful not to overtighten.
- Use a level to ensure the toilet is level both front-to-back and side-to-side.
- Attach the toilet tank to the bowl, ensuring the gasket is in place, and the bolts are tightened securely.
- Install the toilet seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Caulk around the base of the toilet to provide a watertight seal.
After installing the toilet, turn on the water supply and test the toilet for leaks. If you encounter any problems during the installation process or are unsure about any step, seek professional help.
Replacing a Shower Head
Replacing a showerhead is a simple DIY project that can be completed in just a few steps.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you replace a showerhead:
What Do You Need?
- New shower head
- Teflon tape
- Adjustable wrench
- Rag or towel
Steps:
- Turn off the water supply to the shower by closing the shut-off valve.
- Use a rag or towel to protect the shower arm from scratches, then use an adjustable wrench to loosen the old showerhead by turning it counterclockwise.
- Once the old shower head is removed, clean the threads of the shower arm with a rag or towel to remove any debris or old Teflon tape.
- Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the shower arm in a clockwise direction. Make sure the tape is wrapped tightly and covers the entire thread.
- Attach the new showerhead to the shower arm by screwing it clockwise. Tighten it securely, but be careful not to overtighten and damage the shower arm or the new showerhead.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks around the base of the new showerhead. If there are any leaks, turn off the water supply and adjust the shower head until it is properly seated and tightened.
Ready For DIY?
Now you know how to safely and efficiently tackle minor plumbing works independently. If you think it will be too much to handle alone, you can connect Doyle Plumbing. We will deliver the necessary support and ensure your plumbing system works optimally.
