Dripping Faucets: First, turn off the main water line going to the faucet. Then, disassemble the faucet to find the damaged washer. When you go to buy the necessary washer, you should definitely bring both the old washer and the part it connects with. When you have the correct new washer, put everything back together and enjoy the lack of dripping. Preventative measures are few when it comes to dripping faucets. The best way to keep the washer intact is to slowly turn the water on and off and don’t overtighten.
Slow-Draining Sinks: If the clog remains after you suction with a plunger, try using a plumber’s snake to grab and pull out the blockage. A combination of a cup of vinegar and ½ cup of baking soda can also sometimes break down the blockage and force it out. As a last resort, you can use a store-bought chemical solution that dissolves and clears most blockages. It’s important to follow the instructions exactly so there are no unsafe or unnecessary chemical reactions. To prevent future blockages, limit the types of substances that go down the drain. Wipe up hair with a tissue rather than wash it down the drain, and avoid pouring grease down the drain.
Clogged Bath or Shower Drain: Some blockages get to the point where no water can drain at all. If this is the case, you can follow most of the same steps above for fixing slow-draining sinks. If you notice that the bath or shower drain is clogged, stop using it immediately. You don’t want water to build up in the tub because that makes it much more difficult to clear out the clog. If you find yourself in a flooded situation, try using the plunger or plumber’s snake to allow water flow. Once the water has drained, try the vinegar and baking soda solution, or follow the instructions on the store-bought solution exactly.
Low Water Pressure: Calcium buildup from your water supply can cause blockages at the ends of aerators and showerheads. A simple vinegar scrub and soak can help unclog them. Take an old toothbrush, soak it in vinegar and scrub the afflicted parts. For more serious buildup, put the vinegar in a bag and place it so the aerator or showerhead is immersed in the vinegar. Secure the bag around the affected part, and let it soak for a couple of hours before removing and wiping it dry.