Plumbing issues are something every homeowner faces at least once in their life. From dripping faucets to clogged drains, these problems not only cause inconvenience but can also increase your water bills and damage your property if left unattended. While some plumbing issues require professional assistance, many can be solved with simple do-it-yourself (DIY) techniques.
In this blog, we will discuss the most common plumbing problems and provide step-by-step DIY fixes that can save you both time and money.
1. Dripping Faucets
The Problem:
A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing issues in households. The constant “drip, drip” not only irritates you but also wastes gallons of water over time, leading to higher utility bills.
The Cause:
Most often, the cause is a worn-out washer, O-ring, or internal cartridge that needs replacement.
DIY Fix:
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Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
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Use a wrench to loosen the faucet handle.
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Remove the cartridge or washer.
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Replace the faulty part with a new one of the same size.
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Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.
Tip: Always carry spare washers and O-rings in your toolkit.
Summary Table: Common Plumbing Problems and DIY Fixes
| Plumbing Problem | Cause / Role in Home Functionality | DIY Fix Impact | Best Practice / Solution | Approx. Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaky Faucets | Wastes water and increases bills | Can be fixed by replacing washers or seals | Replace worn-out washers or O-rings | ₹100–₹300 per faucet |
| Clogged Drains | Slows water flow, causes odor | DIY unclogging saves plumber cost | Use drain snake, plunger, or baking soda mix | ₹50–₹500 |
| Running Toilets | Wastes water constantly | Fixing flush valve saves water & money | Replace flapper or adjust float | ₹150–₹600 |
| Low Water Pressure | Mineral buildup or pipe blockage | Cleaning aerators or filters improves pressure | Remove blockages, clean pipes | ₹200–₹1,000 |
| Dripping Pipes | Leaks can damage walls and floors | Tightening joints or applying sealant helps | Use pipe wrench, plumber’s tape | ₹100–₹400 |
| Water Heater Issues | No hot water or inconsistent heating | Minor DIY fixes improve performance | Check thermostat, flush tank | ₹500–₹2,000 |
| Burst Pipes | Major water damage if untreated | Quick DIY stops immediate damage | Shut off main valve, patch temporary leaks | ₹300–₹1,500 (temporary patch) |
| Sewer Backup | Blockage or damaged pipe | Can reduce emergency costs | Use auger or snake, call plumber if severe | ₹500–₹2,500 |
| Garbage Disposal Jam | Food particles or improper use | Quick DIY restores function | Reset unit, remove debris | ₹100–₹400 |
| Faucet Corrosion / Rust | Affects water quality | Cleaning and minor repairs extend lifespan | Replace aerators, clean with vinegar | ₹50–₹300 |
2. Clogged Drains
The Problem:
Slow-draining sinks or showers are frustrating. This usually happens because of food particles, hair, soap scum, or grease buildup.
The Cause:
Blockages in the drain pipes restrict the flow of water.
DIY Fix:
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Start with a plunger to dislodge small blockages.
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If that doesn’t work, use a drain snake or auger to remove deeper clogs.
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For mild clogs, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water.
Tip: Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can damage your pipes in the long run.
3. Running Toilets
The Problem:
A toilet that keeps running continuously wastes significant amounts of water, increasing bills unnecessarily.
The Cause:
The culprit is usually a faulty flapper valve, fill valve, or overflow tube.
DIY Fix:
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Remove the toilet tank lid.
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Check if the flapper is sealing properly. If not, replace it.
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Adjust the chain length so the flapper closes fully.
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If water continues to run, replace the fill valve assembly.
Tip: Toilet repair kits are inexpensive and available at hardware stores.
4. Low Water Pressure
The Problem:
Low water pressure makes showers frustrating and slows down household chores.
The Cause:
Build-up of mineral deposits inside aerators or showerheads, or hidden leaks in your plumbing system.
DIY Fix:
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Remove the faucet aerator or showerhead.
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Soak it in vinegar overnight to dissolve mineral buildup.
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Scrub it with an old toothbrush before reattaching.
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If this doesn’t work, check for leaks in visible pipes.
Tip: For whole-house pressure issues, consult a professional as it may be a municipal supply issue.
5. Leaky Pipes
The Problem:
Leaky pipes can damage flooring, walls, and furniture.
The Cause:
Corrosion, joint damage, or excessive water pressure.
DIY Fix:
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Turn off the main water supply.
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Wipe the pipe dry.
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Use plumber’s tape, epoxy putty, or a pipe clamp as a temporary fix.
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For a permanent solution, replace the damaged section of the pipe.
Tip: Always keep epoxy putty in your home toolkit for emergencies.
6. Water Heater Problems
The Problem:
Cold showers or inconsistent hot water supply are common complaints.
The Cause:
Sediment buildup inside the tank, faulty thermostat, or broken heating element.
DIY Fix:
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Check if the thermostat is set to the correct temperature (120°F/49°C is ideal).
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Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment.
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If the water is still cold, replace the heating element.
Tip: Regular maintenance every 6–12 months prevents sediment buildup.
7. Jammed Garbage Disposal
The Problem:
Garbage disposals get jammed due to food waste, bones, or foreign objects.
The Cause:
Overloading or improper use.
DIY Fix:
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Turn off power to the disposal.
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Use a hex key (usually provided) to rotate the blades manually.
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Remove any stuck items with tongs (never use your hands).
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