Homeowners Tips That Will Save You Money Part 1 of 9

Save time and money by learning these easy to do homeowner tips.

In part 1 of this 9 part series, we discuss common plumbing fixes.

Stop a Running Toilet
The most common cause is a worn flapper that no longer seals properly, allowing water to constantly seep into the bowl. Press lightly on the flapper with a yardstick. If the sound of running water stops, you know that the problem is related to the flapper. Before you replace it, run your finger around the opening that the flapper rests on. Mineral deposits on the rim could be preventing the flapper from sealing. In that case, scrubbing the deposits with an abrasive sponge may solve the problem. If it doesn’t, replace the flapper.

Unclog a Sink  In kitchen sinks, there’s a baffle just above the trap that directs water down the drain. But that baffle is also a notorious clog causer, especially if you frequently use the garbage disposal. Bend a coat hanger or other stiff wire, and slip it down the drain. When you feel the wire hook onto the baffle, jiggle it to dislodge the clog. This also works in bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers.

Slow Draining Sink In addition to the previous tip to help with a slow draining sink, get a 1/4 cup of baking soda and a half cup of vinegar. Pour the baking soda down the drain. Then pour the vinegar down the drain. The volcano type reaction will help remove hair, grease, and other clogging agents and get your drain flowing properly again without using harsh chemicals. Vinegar and baking soda is also much less expensive than traditional chemical solutions.

In part 2 we will discuss troubleshooting tips to try before calling a repairman.