Did you know that some of the most common plumbing issues can be simply and effectively remedied on your own? While it’s good to have the name and contact information of a reliable plumber when emergencies, big jobs, and renovation projects come along, the average homeowner can take care of a few simple jobs around the house. All that’s requires is a little patience and help from our list of helpful tips:

Problem: Running Toilet

How to fix it: If you hear your toilet running long after you’ve last flushed, there’s more that you can do beside ignoring it or jiggling the handle. The next time you hear it running, lift the lid off of the tank and look inside. If the tank isn’t full and you see no signs that it is in the process of filling, then the flapper may not be correctly positioned. If this is the problem, reach in and close it manually. If the problem persists you may have to replace one of three parts: the fill valve, the toilet flapper, or a leaky flush valve.

Problem: Clogged kitchen drain

How to fix it: Fortunately, the commonality of sink clogs means that there are a number of easy fixes that homeowners can do on their own. One easy way to clear a greasy clog is with a combination of white vinegar, baking soda and boiling water. Simply add a ¼ cup of baking soda to the drain and then pour in an equal amount of vinegar. Flush the vinegar and baking soda with boiling water, and then use a plunger to free the clog. If at home methods are unsuccessful, then it may be time to call in a professional.

Problem: Clogged toilet

How to fix it: No one likes the thought of dealing with a clogged toilet; however, oftentimes, toilet clogs are among the easier problems to fix. The first step is to put your plunger to work. If there is no water in the toilet bowl, be sure to add some prior to using the plunger. If the toilet remains clogged, you can use a toilet snake to try and dislodge it. If you don’t own a toilet snake, you can use a wire coat hanger in its place.  Simply untwist the coat hanger and wrap a scrap of old t-shirt around it to keep from damaging the bowl. Then push the wrapped end of the hanger into the bowl and move it around until the water starts to drain.

Problem: Low water pressure in the shower

How to fix it: more often than not, reduced water pressure in the shower is the results of mineral buildup.  The easiest way to solve this problem is by removing your shower head and soaking it in vinegar. If your showerhead is not removable slip a plastic bag filled with vinegar over the showerhead and hold it in place with a rubber band.