Home plumbing

Guides for common plumbing issues: leaks, clogs, toilets, faucets. Each includes when to call a pro.

Common issues

Start here

Best entry points for this topic.

  • Fix a leaking faucet Stop a dripping faucet by replacing worn O-rings, washers, or the cartridge after shutting off the water supply.
  • How to fix a clogged drain Clear a slow or fully blocked sink, tub, or shower drain using common household tools and no harsh chemicals.
  • Fix a toilet that runs Fix a toilet that runs continuously by checking the flapper, fill valve, overflow tube, and float.
  • Fix a water heater that leaks A water heater that leaks from the tank, fittings, or valves. This guide helps you locate the leak source—drain valve, T&P valve, or tank—then tighten, replace, or call a pro when the tank is failing.

All guides

Troubleshooting

  • Fix a backflow preventer that leaks A backflow preventer that drips or leaks at the body, test cocks, or connections. This guide helps you locate the leak, tighten connections, replace seals, and know when to call a plumber.
  • Fix a bathroom faucet that leaks A bathroom faucet that drips from the spout or base. This guide helps you identify the leak location, shut off the water, then replace the cartridge, washers, or O-rings—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a bathroom sink drain that is clogged A bathroom sink that drains slowly or not at all. This guide helps you remove the pop-up, clear hair and toothpaste buildup with a snake, and clean the P-trap—or call a plumber when the clog is beyond DIY.
  • Fix a bathtub drain that is clogged A bathtub drain that is blocked or drains slowly. This guide helps you remove the overflow plate, snake the drain, and clean the pipe to clear hair and soap buildup—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a downspout that backs up A downspout that backs up or overflows during rain. This guide helps you clear the downspout, check the drain outlet, and fix the connection—or call a gutter professional when needed.
  • Fix a drain that gurgles A drain that gurgles when water runs. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, rule out simple causes, then isolate the cause—vent blockage or partial clog—and fix it or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a drain that is slow A drain that drains slowly but does not fully block. This guide helps you remove the pop-up, snake the drain, and clean the P-trap to clear hair, grease, or partial clogs—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a drain that smells A drain that gives off sewer gas or foul odors. This guide helps you refill a dry P-trap, check the vent, and clean bacteria buildup—or call a plumber when the vent is blocked or the smell persists.
  • Fix a drip irrigation system that will not drip A drip irrigation system that does not emit water from emitters or tubing. This guide helps you check the supply, flush the lines, and unclog emitters—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a faucet that has low pressure A faucet that delivers weak or reduced water flow. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, clean the aerator, check the supply valve, inspect the cartridge, or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a faucet that makes noise A faucet that bangs, squeaks, or hums. This guide helps you identify water hammer, loose parts, a worn cartridge, or a clogged aerator—then fix or replace the cause, or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a faucet that sprays A faucet that sprays or splashes instead of producing a smooth stream. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, clean or replace the aerator, check the diverter, inspect the cartridge, or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a faucet that will not turn off A faucet that continues to run or drip after you turn the handle off. This guide helps you shut the supply valve immediately, then replace the cartridge or stem washer, or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a floor drain that backs up A floor drain that overflows or backs up when other fixtures run. This guide helps you check the main line, snake the drain, and verify the sump pump—or call a plumber when the blockage is beyond DIY.
  • Fix a French drain that backs up A French drain or perimeter drain that backs up or does not carry water away. This guide helps you clear the outlet, flush the pipe, and check the slope—or call a drainage professional when needed.
  • Fix a garden hose that leaks A garden hose that leaks at the connections or has a hole or split. This guide helps you replace the hose washer, fix the coupling, and patch or replace the hose—or know when to replace it.
  • Fix a gutter that leaks A gutter that leaks at seams, end caps, or holes. This guide helps you seal seams, replace end caps, and patch holes—or call a gutter professional when needed.
  • Fix a gutter that overflows A gutter that overflows during rain instead of carrying water to the downspout. This guide helps you clean the gutter, clear the downspout, and add capacity—or call a gutter professional when needed.
  • Fix a gutter that sags A gutter that sags or pulls away from the fascia. This guide helps you reattach hangers, add new hangers, and fix the slope—or call a gutter professional when needed.
  • Fix a hose bib that leaks An outdoor faucet (hose bib) that drips or leaks at the spout or connection. This guide helps you replace the washer, repack the stem, and fix the connection—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a hose bib that will not shut off An outdoor faucet (hose bib) that continues to run when you turn the handle off. This guide helps you replace the stem washer, check the seat, and know when to call a plumber.
  • Fix a kitchen faucet that leaks A kitchen faucet that drips from the spout, base, or sprayer. This guide helps you identify the leak location, shut off the water, then replace the cartridge, O-rings, or sprayer hose—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a kitchen sink drain that is clogged A kitchen sink drain that is blocked or drains slowly. This guide helps you clean the P-trap, snake the drain, and clear the disposal if present—to remove grease and food buildup—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a main drain that is clogged Multiple fixtures backing up or slow drains throughout the house. This guide helps you locate the cleanout, snake from there, and know when to call a plumber for tree roots, grease, or deep blockages.
  • Fix a main water line that leaks A leak in the main water line between the meter or well and the house. This guide helps you locate the leak, shut off the water, and know when to call a plumber for repair.
  • Fix a pressure reducing valve that will not regulate A pressure reducing valve (PRV) that fails to maintain consistent pressure—too high, too low, or fluctuating. This guide helps you check the valve, adjust the setting, and know when to call a plumber.
  • Fix a pull-out faucet that will not retract A pull-out kitchen faucet whose spray head does not retract into place. This guide helps you check the hose path, weight, and spray head—and fix the cause or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a rain barrel that will not drain A rain barrel that does not drain from the spigot or overflow. This guide helps you clear the spigot, unclog the overflow, and check the screen—or know when to replace the barrel.
  • Fix a reverse osmosis system that leaks An RO system that drips or leaks at fittings, housings, or the drain line. This guide helps you locate the leak, tighten connections, replace O-rings, and fix the drain saddle—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a reverse osmosis system that will not produce water An RO system that produces little or no water. This guide helps you check water supply and pressure, replace clogged filters and membrane, and verify the storage tank—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a septic pump that will not run A septic pump that does not turn on when the tank level rises. This guide helps you check power, the float switch, and the pump itself—or call a septic professional when needed.
  • Fix a septic system that backs up A septic system that backs up into the house—toilets, sinks, or drains. This guide helps you check for clogs, the septic pump, and tank level—or call a septic professional when needed.
  • Fix a septic system that smells Septic odors inside the house or near the tank and drainfield. This guide helps you check drain traps, vent pipes, and tank condition—or call a septic professional when needed.
  • Fix a sewer line that is clogged A clogged sewer line that causes backups, slow drains, or gurgling. This guide helps you locate the clog, try a drain snake, and know when to call a plumber for professional cleaning.
  • Fix a sewer smell in house Sewer gas odor inside the house. This guide helps you check drain traps, vent pipes, and toilet seals—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a shower drain that is clogged A shower drain that is blocked or drains slowly. This guide helps you remove the strainer, snake the drain, and clean the pipe to clear hair and soap buildup—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a shower faucet that leaks A shower faucet that drips from the showerhead or leaks at the handle or diverter. This guide helps you identify the leak location, shut off the water, then replace the cartridge, diverter, or seals—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a sprayer that leaks A kitchen or utility sprayer that leaks at the hose, head, or diverter. This guide helps you shut off the water, locate the leak—hose, O-ring, or diverter—and replace the faulty part or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a sprinkler head that will not pop up A sprinkler head that stays down or does not rise when the zone runs. This guide helps you check for debris, adjust the pop-up height, and replace the head—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a sprinkler that leaks A sprinkler head that leaks when the zone is off or drips from the head or connection. This guide helps you tighten the head, replace the seal, and fix the supply connection—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a sump pump that makes noise A sump pump that hums, rattles, or vibrates loudly. This guide helps you identify whether the noise comes from the impeller, check valve, or loose mounting, then fix or replace the faulty part—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a sump pump that runs constantly A sump pump that runs all the time or cycles too often. This guide helps you check the float, water source, and pump size—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a sump pump that will not run A sump pump that does not turn on when the pit fills. This guide helps you check power, the float switch, and the impeller—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a sump pump that will not shut off A sump pump that runs all the time and does not shut off when the pit is empty. This guide helps you check the float switch and the switch mechanism—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a tankless water heater that has no hot water A tankless water heater that does not produce hot water. This guide helps you confirm flow and demand, check gas or power, then isolate the cause—flow sensor, gas supply, scale, or ignition—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a toilet that double flushes The toilet flushes twice or requires two flushes to clear. This guide helps you adjust the flapper chain, replace the flapper, and check the flush valve—or call a plumber when the valve is worn.
  • Fix a toilet that flushes slowly Weak or sluggish flush. This guide helps you clean rim jets, adjust water level, and clear partial clogs—or call a plumber when the drain is severely blocked.
  • Fix a toilet that is clogged A toilet that will not drain or drains slowly. This guide helps you clear the clog with a plunger, auger, or low-flow fixes—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a toilet that keeps running A toilet that runs continuously after a flush. This guide helps you check the flapper, fill valve, and overflow—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a toilet that leaks at the base Water pooling around the toilet base. This guide helps you check the bolts, replace the wax ring, and inspect the flange—or call a plumber when the flange is damaged.
  • Fix a toilet that leaks from the tank Water dripping from the tank onto the floor or into the bowl. This guide helps you check tank bolts, flush valve gasket, and fill valve—or call a plumber when the tank is cracked.
  • Fix a toilet that will not fill A toilet tank that does not refill after a flush. This guide helps you check the water supply, fill valve, and float—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a toilet that will not flush A toilet that does not flush or flushes weakly. This guide helps you rule out the flapper, chain, fill valve, and handle—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a toilet that will not stop running A toilet that runs continuously after flushing. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, check the flapper seal, adjust or replace the fill valve and float, or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a toilet that wobbles A toilet that rocks or wobbles when you sit on it. This guide helps you check the wax ring, bolts, and floor—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a touch faucet that will not respond A touch-activated faucet that does not turn on or off when you touch it. This guide helps you check the battery, sensor, and solenoid—and replace the faulty part or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a tub faucet that drips A tub faucet that drips after you turn it off. This guide helps you shut off the water, identify the cause—cartridge, washers, or stem—and replace the faulty part or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a UV water purifier that will not work A UV water purifier that does not produce purified water or the UV lamp does not glow. This guide helps you check power, the lamp, the quartz sleeve, and flow—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a water filter that leaks A water filter that drips or leaks at the housing, connections, or O-ring. This guide helps you locate the leak, replace the O-ring, tighten the housing, and fix loose connections—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix a water filter that will not filter A water filter that does not improve taste, smell, or clarity. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, replace a clogged or expired filter, check the housing and O-rings, verify flow and bypass, or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water heater pilot that will not stay lit A gas water heater pilot that goes out when you release the knob. This guide helps you confirm the pilot lights, rule out draft and gas supply issues, then replace the thermocouple or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water heater that has no hot water A water heater that produces no hot water. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, rule out power and gas, then isolate the cause—pilot (gas), heating element (electric), or thermostat—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water heater that makes noise A water heater that makes popping, rumbling, or cracking sounds. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, rule out normal expansion, then isolate the cause—sediment, thermal expansion, or heating elements—and fix it or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water heater that produces rusty water A water heater that produces rusty or discolored hot water. This guide helps you confirm the source is the water heater, then address causes—anode rod, sediment, or tank corrosion—or call a pro when the tank is failing.
  • Fix a water heater that runs out of hot water fast A water heater that runs out of hot water too quickly. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, rule out usage patterns, then isolate the cause—sediment, undersized tank, or thermostat—and fix it or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water heater that will not light A gas water heater whose pilot will not light or stay lit. This guide helps you check gas supply and pilot orifice, then directs you to call a plumber for pilot and thermocouple work—gas pilot work requires a professional.
  • Fix a water meter that runs when nothing is on A water meter that moves when all fixtures are off—indicating a hidden leak. This guide helps you isolate the leak to the house or the main line, check common sources, and know when to call a plumber.
  • Fix a water softener that leaks A water softener that drips or leaks water. This guide helps you locate the leak, tighten connections, check the brine tank and overflow, inspect the control valve, or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water softener that makes noise A water softener that hums, clicks, clunks, or makes unusual sounds. This guide helps you identify the noise type, check the control valve and brine draw, inspect the motor or piston, or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a water softener that will not soften A water softener that runs but water stays hard. This guide helps you confirm the symptom, check salt level and brine draw, inspect the resin tank, verify settings and regeneration, or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a well pump that has low pressure Weak water flow from faucets even when the well pump runs. This guide helps you check the pressure tank, pressure switch settings, and sediment or blockage, then fix or adjust—or call a pro when the well or pump is the cause.
  • Fix a well pump that runs constantly A well pump that does not shut off or cycles too often. This guide helps you check for leaks, a waterlogged pressure tank, and a faulty pressure switch, then fix or replace the faulty part—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a well pump that will not start A well pump that does not turn on when you use water. This guide helps you check the pressure switch, circuit breaker, and capacitor, then fix or replace the faulty part—or call a pro when needed.
  • Fix a whole house filter that has low pressure A whole house water filter that reduces flow or pressure at fixtures. This guide helps you check for clogs, replace the filter cartridge, bypass the unit, and verify supply pressure—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix an irrigation system that will not water An irrigation or sprinkler system that does not turn on or water zones. This guide helps you check the controller, valves, and water supply—or call a plumber when needed.
  • Fix pipes that are frozen Pipes that are frozen and produce no water or reduced flow. This guide helps you shut off water, thaw slowly and safely, insulate to prevent refreezing—or call a pro if a pipe has burst.
  • Fix pipes that hammer Pipes that bang or knock when you turn off a faucet or appliance. This guide helps you install water hammer arrestors and tighten loose pipe straps—or call a pro if the noise persists.
  • Fix pipes that leak Pipes that drip, spray, or pool water. This guide helps you shut off water, locate the leak, patch small leaks or call a pro for joint repairs, cracks, or hidden leaks.
  • Fix pipes that make noise Pipes that bang, clang, or rattle when water runs. This guide helps you identify water hammer, loose straps, or thermal expansion, then fix them with arrestors, pipe straps, or an expansion tank—or call a pro when needed.
  • How to fix a boiler pressure leak A boiler that leaks from the pressure relief valve or shows high pressure. This guide helps you check the pressure gauge, rule out expansion tank or fill valve issues, replace the relief valve if worn, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a curb stop leak Stop water leaking from the curb stop valve near the street. This guide helps you confirm the leak location, determine if the utility or you is responsible, tighten the packing nut for stem leaks, or call the water utility or plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a dehumidifier drain leak Stop water leaking from a dehumidifier drain hose, drain port, or drain line. Check the connection, clear clogs, fix kinks, and replace damaged parts—or call a pro when needed.
  • How to fix a furnace condensate leak Stop water leaking from a high-efficiency furnace condensate drain. Diagnose clogs, drain pan issues, and slope problems—or call an HVAC technician when the leak is from gas or the heat exchanger.
  • How to fix a Keurig leak Stop water leaking from a Keurig by locating the source—reservoir, drip tray, or brew chamber—then reseating the reservoir, checking fill level, cleaning the exit needle, or descaling. Know when to replace the unit.
  • How to fix a main shutoff leak Stop water leaking from the main shutoff valve. This guide helps you confirm the leak location, tighten or repack the packing nut, and know when to call a plumber—or the water utility for curb stop access.
  • How to fix a meter leak Stop water leaking at the water meter. This guide helps you confirm the leak is at the meter, identify which side (street or house), and know when to call the water utility or a plumber.
  • How to fix a pressure relief valve leak Stop water leaking from the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve on a water heater. This guide helps you confirm the leak location, test the valve, replace it if faulty, and check system pressure—or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a water heater relief valve leak Stop water leaking from the T&P relief valve on a water heater. This guide helps you confirm the leak source, test the valve, replace it if faulty, and check for overpressure or overheating—or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix an AC condensate leak Diagnose and fix water leaking from an AC condensate drain—clogged drain line, cracked pan, bad slope, or failed condensate pump—and know when to call an HVAC technician.

How-to

  • How to add salt to a water softener Refill the brine tank of a water softener with salt. Use the correct salt type and keep the tank at least half full for proper operation.
  • How to clear a main line clog Clear a clog in the main sewer or drain line when multiple fixtures back up. Use a drain snake or hire a plumber for professional equipment.
  • How to find a water leak Locate a hidden water leak by checking the meter, listening for sounds, and inspecting common leak spots—faucets, toilets, and supply lines.
  • How to fix a backflow preventer leak Stop a drip or leak at a backflow preventer by shutting off water, locating the leak, tightening test cocks, replacing O-rings, and knowing when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a baseboard heater leak A hydronic baseboard heater that drips or leaks at the valve, connection, or element. This guide helps you shut off the system, locate the leak, tighten fittings, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a basement leak Stop water leaking into the basement. This guide helps you locate the source—foundation cracks, window wells, sump pump, or gutters—and fix it with sealant, drainage, or by redirecting water away from the foundation.
  • How to fix a bidet leak Stop water leaking from a bidet by locating the source, tightening connections, replacing the supply line or T-valve, or fixing the spray nozzle—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a boiler leak A boiler that drips or leaks at fittings, the pressure relief valve, or the tank. This guide helps you shut off the system, locate the leak, tighten fittings, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a ceiling leak Stop water dripping from a ceiling by locating the source—roof, bathroom above, or pipe—and containing the leak until a professional can repair it.
  • How to fix a clogged bathtub Clear a slow or blocked bathtub drain caused by hair and soap. Use a drain snake, plunger, or remove the drain stopper to pull out debris.
  • How to fix a coffee maker leak Stop water leaking from a coffee maker by locating the source, replacing the carafe, fixing the water reservoir, or cleaning mineral buildup—and when to call a plumber or replace the unit.
  • How to fix a dehumidifier leak Locate and stop a leak in a dehumidifier—drain hose, drain pan, or internal connections—using visual inspection and simple repairs.
  • How to fix a dishwasher hose leak Stop water leaking from dishwasher hoses by tightening the connections, replacing the supply or drain hose, or fixing the connection under the sink—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a dishwasher leak Stop water leaking from a dishwasher. This guide helps you locate the leak—door gasket, hose connections, supply line, or drain—and fix it by replacing the gasket, tightening fittings, or clearing the drain, or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a drip system leak A drip irrigation system that leaks at an emitter, fitting, or line. This guide helps you locate the leak, replace emitters, repair tubing, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a faucet sprayer leak Stop water leaking from a kitchen faucet sprayer by locating the source, replacing the hose, fixing the head, or tightening connections—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a fire sprinkler leak A fire sprinkler head that drips or leaks. This guide helps you identify the cause, shut off the system, and know when to call a professional—fire sprinklers are life-safety equipment.
  • How to fix a fish tank leak Locate and repair a leak in an aquarium—seams, silicone, or fittings—and move fish to safety before repairing.
  • How to fix a fountain leak Locate and repair a leak in a garden or indoor fountain—pump, tubing, basin, or fittings—using visual inspection and simple fixes.
  • How to fix a furnace leak Locate and stop water leaking from a furnace—condensate drain, drain pan, or humidifier—and clear or repair the drain.
  • How to fix a garbage disposal leak Stop water leaking from a garbage disposal. This guide helps you locate the leak—sink flange, drain connection, or housing—and fix it with a new gasket, plumber putty, or by tightening connections, or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a hose leak A garden hose that leaks at the connections or has a hole or split. This guide helps you replace the hose washer, tighten the coupling, patch or replace the hose, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a hot tub leak Locate and stop a leak in a hot tub—usually at fittings, jets, or the pump—using visual inspection and simple repairs.
  • How to fix a humidifier leak Locate and stop a leak in a humidifier—tank, base, or connections—using visual inspection and simple repairs.
  • How to fix a leaking toilet Stop a toilet that leaks at the base, from the tank, or at the supply connection. Identify the source and replace gaskets or fittings.
  • How to fix a leaky pipe Repair a leaking pipe at a joint, fitting, or small crack. Options include tightening connections, replacing a section, or using a repair clamp.
  • How to fix a pipe leak Stop water leaking from a pipe. This guide helps you locate the leak—joint, fitting, or pipe body—and fix it with a repair clamp, epoxy putty, or by replacing the section, or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a pond leak Locate and repair a leak in a garden pond—liner, plumbing, or waterfall—using the bucket test and visual inspection.
  • How to fix a pool leak Locate and repair a leak in an in-ground or above-ground pool—liner, plumbing, or fittings—using the bucket test and visual inspection.
  • How to fix a pressure tank leak Stop water leaking from a well pressure tank by locating the source, tightening fittings, replacing the air valve, or replacing the tank—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a radiant floor leak A radiant floor heating system that leaks—often detected by wet spots, warm spots, or a pressure drop. This guide helps you locate the leak, understand when it is DIY vs. professional, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a radiator leak A radiator that drips or leaks at the valve, connection, or radiator body. This guide helps you locate the leak, tighten the valve, replace the valve packing, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a rain barrel leak A rain barrel that leaks at the spigot, overflow, lid, or barrel body. This guide helps you locate the leak, replace seals, tighten fittings, and patch or replace the barrel.
  • How to fix a refrigerator ice maker leak Stop water leaking from the ice maker by locating the source, tightening the supply line, replacing the line or filter, or fixing the ice maker—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a refrigerator water leak Stop water leaking from a refrigerator with a water dispenser or ice maker. This guide helps you locate the leak—water line, filter housing, drain pan, or defrost drain—and fix it by tightening connections, replacing the filter, or clearing the drain.
  • How to fix a reverse osmosis system leak Stop water leaking from an RO system by locating the source, tightening fittings, replacing O-rings, or fixing the housing—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a roof leak Stop water leaking through the roof. This guide helps you locate the source—flashing, shingles, vents, or skylights—and fix it with sealant or by replacing damaged materials, or call a roofer when needed.
  • How to fix a running toilet Stop a toilet that runs continuously by adjusting the flapper, fill valve, or float—or replacing worn parts.
  • How to fix a shower head leak Stop water leaking or dripping from a shower head by cleaning mineral buildup, replacing the washer, or tightening the connection—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a shower leak Stop water leaking from a shower. This guide helps you locate the leak—showerhead, faucet, valve, or drain—and fix it by replacing the showerhead, cartridge, or drain seal, or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a sink leak Stop water leaking from a sink. This guide helps you locate the leak—faucet, drain, supply lines, or P-trap—and fix it by replacing washers, tightening connections, or fixing the drain seal.
  • How to fix a slab leak Identify and address a water leak under a concrete slab foundation—a serious issue that usually requires a plumber and sometimes a foundation specialist.
  • How to fix a slow drain Restore normal flow to a sink, tub, or shower drain that drains slowly. Remove debris, use a plunger, flush with hot water, snake the drain, or clean the P-trap—or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a sprinkler system leak A lawn sprinkler system that leaks at a head, connection, or valve. This guide helps you locate the leak, replace cracked heads, tighten connections, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a steam radiator that will not heat A steam radiator that stays cold or heats unevenly. This guide helps you check the air vent, confirm the valve is open, level the radiator, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a toilet supply line leak Stop water leaking from the toilet supply line by tightening the connections or replacing the line—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a tub leak Stop water leaking from a bathtub. This guide helps you locate the leak—faucet, drain, overflow, or supply lines—and fix it by replacing washers, tightening the drain, or fixing the overflow gasket.
  • How to fix a tub spout leak Stop water leaking from a tub spout by tightening the connection, replacing the O-ring, or installing a new spout—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a wall leak Locate and stop water leaking from a wall—usually from a pipe inside—and repair the wall after the plumbing is fixed.
  • How to fix a washing machine hose leak Stop water leaking from washing machine hoses by tightening the connections or replacing the hoses—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a washing machine leak Stop water leaking from a washing machine. This guide helps you locate the leak—inlet hoses, drain hose, pump, or tub seal—and fix it by tightening or replacing hoses, or call a plumber when needed.
  • How to fix a water dispenser leak Stop water leaking from a refrigerator water dispenser by locating the source, tightening the supply line, replacing the filter, or fixing the dispenser valve—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a water filter leak Stop water leaking from a water filter by locating the source, replacing the O-ring, tightening the housing, or fixing connections—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a water heater leak Stop water leaking from a water heater. This guide helps you locate the leak—drain valve, inlet/outlet connections, or tank—and fix it by tightening or replacing the drain valve, or call a plumber when the tank is leaking.
  • How to fix a water softener leak Stop water leaking from a water softener by locating the source, tightening fittings, replacing O-rings, or fixing the brine tank—and when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix a well pump leak A well pump that leaks at the fittings, pressure switch, or pump housing. This guide helps you shut off the system, locate the leak, tighten fittings, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix an air conditioner leak Locate and stop water leaking from an air conditioner—condensate drain, drain pan, or refrigerant line—and repair or clear the drain.
  • How to fix an irrigation leak An irrigation system that leaks at a line, fitting, or head. This guide helps you locate the leak, repair broken lines, replace fittings, and know when to call a plumber.
  • How to fix high water pressure Reduce excessively high water pressure with a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). High pressure can damage fixtures, pipes, and appliances.
  • How to fix low water pressure Improve low water pressure by cleaning aerators, checking supply valves, and identifying pressure-reducing valve or pipe issues.
  • How to flush a water heater Drain sediment from a tank water heater to improve efficiency and extend its life. Do this annually or when you notice reduced hot water output.
  • How to install a garbage disposal Install a new garbage disposal under the kitchen sink. Requires electrical wiring, drain connection, and mounting to the sink flange.
  • How to install a sump pump Install a sump pump in a basement or crawl space to remove groundwater and prevent flooding. Requires a sump pit, pump, and discharge line.
  • How to replace a faucet Remove an old faucet and install a new one. Works for kitchen and bathroom sinks—mounting style and supply lines matter.
  • How to replace a shower cartridge Replace a worn or mineral-clogged shower cartridge to fix leaks, low flow, or temperature control issues. Identify the cartridge type first.
  • How to replace a sump pump Replace a failed or worn sump pump. Disconnect the old pump, install the new one in the pit, and reconnect the discharge line.
  • How to replace a toilet flapper Replace a worn or leaking toilet flapper to stop a running toilet. Match the old flapper for size and shape, then install the new one in minutes.
  • How to replace a water filter Replace an under-sink, fridge, or whole-house water filter. Shut off the water, release pressure, and swap the cartridge or filter housing.
  • How to replace a water heater Replace an old tank water heater with a new one. Requires draining, disconnecting gas or electric, and reconnecting supply lines and venting.
  • How to sanitize a well Shock chlorinate a well to kill bacteria and fix contamination. Use household bleach, circulate it through the system, and flush until the chlorine is gone.
  • How to shut off the main water supply Locate and turn off the main water valve to stop water flow during a leak, burst pipe, or before plumbing work. Covers gate valves, ball valves, and when to call a plumber.
  • How to stop water hammer Fix noisy banging or knocking when you turn off a faucet. Install water hammer arrestors or secure loose pipes.
  • How to thaw frozen pipes Safely thaw frozen pipes to restore water flow and prevent bursts. Start at the faucet and work toward the frozen section.
  • How to unclog a kitchen sink Clear a slow or blocked kitchen sink caused by grease, food particles, and soap buildup using a plunger, baking soda and vinegar, or a drain snake.
  • How to unclog a shower drain Clear a slow or blocked shower drain caused by hair and soap buildup using a drain snake, plunger, or chemical-free methods.
  • How to unclog a toilet Clear a clogged toilet using a flange plunger, then a toilet auger if needed—without harsh chemicals.
  • How to winterize outdoor faucets Drain and protect outdoor faucets from freezing. Prevents burst pipes and costly repairs when temperatures drop.

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