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 water heater leak: T&P, drain valve, nipple, tank rust Wet floor at tank. Snug drain and connections, route T&P to drain—rust streaks or weeping shell mean replace the whole water heater.

All guides

Troubleshooting

Fix a backflow preventer that leaks at test cocks or joints Shut supply, tighten test cock caps, replace O-rings, watch the relief port—call a plumber for internal check failure or code rebuilds.
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 dripping bathroom faucet at the spout or handle base Shut off supplies, identify cartridge type, replace O-rings or the cartridge, reseat the spout—call a plumber for corroded valves or wall leaks.
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 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 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 slow or clogged bathroom sink drain full of hair Remove the pop-up, use a plastic snake, flush with hot water, clean the P-trap—avoid pouring grease; snake the branch if clog is past the trap.
Fix a slow or clogged bathtub drain blocked by hair and soap Open the overflow, snake toward the trap, plunge with a wet rag sealing the overflow—use a drum auger or plumber for main line backups.
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 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 flashes an error code A tankless water heater that displays an error code and will not heat. This guide helps you confirm the code, check common causes (flow, gas, venting, ignition), then clear or fix the fault—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 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 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 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 clogs fast A water filter (under-sink, whole-house, or sediment filter) that clogs or needs replacement too often. This guide helps you check pre-filters, sediment source, and filter type—then fix or adjust—or call a pro 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 uses too much salt A water softener that goes through salt too quickly. This guide helps you check regeneration settings, brine draw, and salt level—then adjust or repair—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 a zone valve that will not open A zone valve that stays closed when the thermostat calls for heat. This guide helps you confirm the thermostat is calling, check power and wiring, test the valve motor, and replace it if faulty—or call a pro 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 clogged toilet: flange plunger, closet auger, main line Bowl rises on flush. Seal plunger, vertical strokes, auger past trap—sewage in tub means main, not toilet only.
Fix curb stop leak: meter box, packing nut, water utility Wet valve box at street. Call utility for street side; house side stem drip—snug packing nut with curb key, no valve torque.
Fix dry P-trap: refill water, siphon, leak, sewer smell Sewer smell at floor drain. Pour water to refill seal; fix siphon or leak if trap dries again—plumber for cracked trap you cannot access.
Fix filter housing leak: O-ring, shutoff, hand-tight only Drips at under-sink filter. Shut cold supply, open faucet to relieve, inspect sump O-ring and threads—replace housing if plastic is cracked.
Fix frozen pipes: shutoff, thaw safely, insulate, burst No flow in freezing weather. Shut the main, open faucets, thaw with a hair dryer or heat lamp—never open flame; burst pipe needs a plumber immediately.
Fix garden hose leaks: washers, couplings, patch, replace Hose drips at the spigot or along the run. New washer, snug couplings, patch holes with a kit, replace cracked hose or broken fittings.
Fix gutter leak: seam sealant, end cap, patch, slope Drip at elbow or seam. Clean, butyl inside joint, pop rivet loose strap—replace section if rust-through, pro for two-story.
Fix gutter overflow: clean, slope, downspout, add capacity Gutters spill over in heavy rain. Clean gutters and leaders, check slope toward downspouts, upsize or add a leader if the run is undersized.
Fix Keurig leak: reservoir seat, exit needle, descale, tray Unplug first. Below max fill line, reseat tank, paper clip clean needle, descale if sputtering—replace brewer if water under base or cracked tank.
Fix leaking hose bib: shutoff, washer, packing, frost-free Outdoor sillcock drips. Turn water off, replace stem washer, tighten packing, seal threads at the wall—or replace frost-free.
Fix leaking kitchen sprayer: hose, O-ring, diverter Side sprayer drips under sink. Valve off; replace hose or head O-ring; service diverter in faucet—plumber if integral body.
Fix leaking pipe: shutoff, locate, clamp or call plumber Drips or spray from supply lines. Stop water, find pinhole vs joint—clamp or epoxy for small pinholes; joints, cracks, or hidden leaks need a pro.
Fix noisy pipes: hammer, loose straps, expansion tank Rattle, bang, or creak when water runs. Match fix to noise: arrestors for hammer, straps for rattle, expansion tank for thermal creak—pro if unsure.
Fix sagging gutters: hangers, slope to leader, fascia check Gutter trough dips or holds water. Add or tighten hangers, restore fall to the downspout, fix soft fascia before it fails.
Fix sewage ejector clog: power off, impeller, no wipes Ejector hums or backs up. Kill power first; clear impeller debris; never flush wipes—plumber for stuck pump or wet pit entry.
Fix sewer main backup: cleanout, snake, stop using water Multiple drains back up together. Stop using water, open the main cleanout, snake the line—call a plumber if sewage enters the house.
Fix sewer smell in house: dry trap, vent, wax ring, cleanout Rotten egg near drain. Pour water in floor drain, sniff roof vent, wiggle toilet for broken wax—septic tank or main clog if multi-fixture.
Fix sprinkler leak: low drain vs valve, head, fitting Drip at head when zone off. Know normal low-head drain; replace cracked head; fix valve that will not close—irrigation pro for main.
Fix tub faucet drip: shutoff, cartridge, seat, packing Drip when taps off. Shut supplies under tub or main, remove trim, swap cartridge or compression washers—plumber if valve seat in wall is damaged.
Fix UV water alarm: lamp hours, quartz sleeve, flow, reset Beep or error on UV purifier. Replace expired lamp, clean cloudy sleeve, restore flow—electrician if ballast or sensor fails.
Fix water hammer pipes: arrestors, straps, valves open Bang when taps or appliances stop flow. Add arrestors at supply lines, strap loose pipes, open shutoffs fully—call a pro if hammer hits the whole house.
Fix water meter leak: utility owns meter, union, house side Wet pit or basement at meter. Dry and watch—street side call water company; outlet toward house may be plumber—never remove meter yourself.
Fix wobbly toilet: closet bolts, shims, wax ring, flange Rocking before wax fails. Snug cap nuts alternately, plastic shims, reseat bowl if leak—spongy floor or cracked flange needs plumber.
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 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 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 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

Clear main sewer clog: cleanout, auger, camera, pro jet Tub gurgles when toilet flips. Open yard cleanout, feed toward street—sewage at cap means city main or need hydro jet.
Find hidden water leak: meter dial, dye test, thermal Bill spike with no usage. Two-meter read, food color in tank, IR for hot slab line—acoustic locate for under concrete.
Fix aquarium leak: rehome fish, dry seam, silicone patch Move stock to hospital tank, lower water below leak, razor old bead, aquarium silicone cure 24h—replace tank if panel splits or bowed.
Fix basement leak: grade, crack epoxy, sump, gutters Wet floor or wall seam. Extend downspouts, hydraulic cement small cracks, sump and dehumidifier—structural crack needs engineer.
Fix bathtub leak: overflow gasket, drain shoe, spout, wall Leak at ceiling below tub. Test overflow with full tub, tighten drain nut, re-caulk—open access panel for supply drip behind tile.
Fix bidet leak: shutoff, T-valve, supply line, nozzle Drip at seat or hose. Close angle stop, hand-tighten braided line, replace T-valve washer—plumber if ceramic is cracked.
Fix boiler leak: cool down, pressure relief, pipe fittings Damp near boiler or radiator. Let system cool, read pressure gauge, snug union—replace dripping PRV, pro if heat exchanger weeps.
Fix ceiling leak: bucket, relief hole, trace, dry rock Bowl stain below bath. Poke bulge to drain, kill water upstairs, replace rock only after dry 48h—roofer if storm-driven.
Fix clogged bathtub: overflow rag, plunger, hair snake Standing water in tub. Block trip waste, cup plunger, plastic snake from stopper hole—main line if toilet bubbles.
Fix dishwasher leak: door gasket, supply line, drain hose Water under or in front of dishwasher. Shut water and breaker, inspect gasket and hose clamps, replace torn seal—plumber for pump or tub leak inside cabinet.
Fix drip irrigation leak: emitter, punch hole, tubing splice Zone off at timer, find wet mulch, swap cracked emitter, goof plug bad punch, barb coupler for split lateral—pro for main line or valve box.
Fix fountain leak: pump O-ring, vinyl tube, basin seal Unplug, empty basin, pressurize line with lung—replace barb fitting, marine silicone crack, new pump if housing crack.
Fix furnace water leak: condensate trap, pump, drain pan High-efficiency condensate PVC. Clear trap and hose to floor drain, shop-vac float, replace cracked pan—humidifier solenoid drip separate check.
Fix garden hose leak: washer, brass coupling, repair kit Spray at bib or mid-hose. New flat washer in female end, snug brass only, rubber patch clamp for pinhole—replace hose if jacket is cracked.
Fix hot tub leak: power off, jet union, pump seal, shell Fill to line, food dye near suspect jet, tighten union by hand, new O-ring—acrylic crack or blower line needs spa tech and epoxy.
Fix humidifier leak: tank seal, fill cap, cracked base Unplug and empty. Reseat tank, replace O-ring, check solenoid feed line—cracked reservoir or pan means replace the whole humidifier.
Fix leaking toilet: wax ring, tank bolts, supply line Water at floor or tank seam. Dry with paper towel to source, lift for wax if bolts tight—spongy floor needs flange repair.
Fix leaky pipe: shutoff, PTFE, union, split clamp Drip at coupling. Water off, joint compound on threads, two wraps tape—epoxy putty pinhole until soldered copper repair.
Fix low water pressure: aerator, PRV, whole-house filter One tap weak—clean screen. Whole house—open main stop, adjust PRV screw—clogged softener bypass test.
Fix pipe leak: main shutoff, repair clamp, joint, putty Pinhole or joint drip after water off. Split clamp on copper, PTFE or new union on threaded, epoxy for pinhole—plumber in wall or heavy corrosion.
Fix pond leak: bucket test, liner patch, skimmer, plumbing Rule out evaporation with bucket test. Patch EPDM with primer and patch, check waterfall flex line—full liner replace if seam fails everywhere.
Fix pool leak: bucket test, dye, skimmer, pump union Water loss vs evaporation. Bucket on step, red dye near crack, tighten pump union—vinyl patch kit, diver for main drain.
Fix radiator leak: cool first, packing nut, bleed, valve Steam or hot water rad drip. Close supply, let cool, snug stem packing, bleed air—replace valve or section if body seam weeps.
Fix rain barrel leak: spigot seal, overflow, plastic patch Empty barrel, replace bung washer, Teflon paste on threads, bulkhead wrench snug—marine epoxy for small crack, new barrel if UV-shattered.
Fix roof leak: trace stain, flashing, shingle, boot, valley Ceiling stain below attic. Tar seal at chimney step, replace lifted tab, pipe boot—stay off steep pitch, roofer for deck rot or skylight.
Fix running toilet: flapper seal, fill height, overflow tube Tank runs nonstop. Chain length, new flapper, fill line to overflow, adjust float—replace fill valve if water creeps over overflow.
Fix shower head leak: vinegar soak, tape, washer, arm Drip when valve off. Soak faceplate, new Teflon on threads, fiber washer—replace cartridge if arm still weeps.
Fix shower leak: cartridge, arm tape, drain gasket, door Water on floor or ceiling below. Replace cartridge, re-tape arm, snug rubber gasket at strainer—open wall only if supply leaks in cavity.
Fix sink leak: faucet cartridge, supply, P-trap, basket Drip at shutoffs or drain. Tighten compression nut, new braided hose, plumber putty at basket—cracked porcelain needs new sink.
Fix slab leak: warm floor, meter spin, jackhammer, reroute Hot line hiss in slab. Pro listening gear, tunnel or repipe overhead—turn main off to limit damage.
Fix slow drain: hair, plunger, snake, P-trap, vent Gurgle or standing water. Pull stopper hair, cup plunger, hand crank snake, trap bucket—main line or multi-fixture backup needs pro snake.
Fix sprinkler leak: controller off, wet spot, slip coupling Soggy lawn when zones are off. Dig to PVC break, primer and slip coupler, replace cracked head—utility or irrigator for brass main and backflow.
Fix tub spout leak: set screw, slip copper, diverter O-ring Water at wall or shower rise weak. Allen set screw, 1/2 inch copper slip, replace diverter—sweat joint if copper torn.
Fix wall leak: shut main, find wet stud, plumber, dry wall Stain or bubble in drywall. Kill main, moisture meter, cut access panel—fix pipe first, then mold treat and patch rock—never seal over active leak.
Fix well pump leak: power off, pressure switch, union O-ring Wet pit or jet pump. Breaker off, dry fittings, snug stainless clamps, replace switch if dripping—submersible pull if motor shaft seal fails.
Flush water heater: gas off, drain hose, full flush, anode Pop T&P first, garden hose to floor drain, stir sediment until clear—follow manufacturer steps to restore gas or electric power.
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 high water pressure Reduce excessively high water pressure with a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). High pressure can damage fixtures, pipes, and appliances.
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 replace a kitchen or bathroom sink faucet safely Remove the old faucet and install a new one on a kitchen or bathroom sink. Shut off water, disconnect supply lines, mount the new fixture, and test for leaks.
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 in your basement or crawl space Replace a sump pump: unplug, disconnect discharge, lift out the old pump, clean the pit, set the new pump, reconnect, plug in, and test.
How to replace a tank water heater (gas or electric) Replace a tank water heater: drain, shut off gas or power, disconnect lines and vent, remove the old tank, install the new unit, fill, purge air, restore power.
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 an under-sink, fridge, or whole-house filter Replace a water filter: shut off water, release pressure, open the housing, swap the cartridge, reseal, flush, and note the next change date.
How to shock chlorinate and sanitize a private water well Sanitize a well: add unscented bleach, circulate, run all taps until chlorine appears, wait, flush until the smell is gone, then retest for bacteria.
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 thaw frozen pipes safely without cracking or bursting Thaw frozen pipes: open the faucet, warm the pipe from the fixture toward the ice with a hair dryer—never flame—and check for leaks when full flow returns.
How to unclog a kitchen sink drain with plunger or snake Unclog a kitchen sink: clear debris, plunge one side of a double sink with the other plugged, try baking soda and vinegar, then snake or clean the trap.
How to unclog a shower drain when water backs up slowly Unclog a shower: pull hair from the drain, plunge with overflow blocked, use hot water and baking soda with vinegar, or snake if water still pools.
How to winterize outdoor faucets Drain and protect outdoor faucets from freezing. Prevents burst pipes and costly repairs when temperatures drop.
Install sump pump: pit liner, check valve, discharge frost Perforated pit below slab, submersible pump, 1.5 inch PVC with check valve—air gap or freeze if climate requires.
Stop water hammer: arrestor, strap pipes, lower pressure Bang when washer valve closes. Mini arrestor at hose bib, secure loose copper, 50–60 psi PRV—air chambers waterlogged need pro repipe.
Unclog toilet: flange plunger, closet auger, no chemicals Rise water in bowl, seal plunger, vertical strokes. Closet auger through trap for toy or wipe—call if main line backs up other fixtures.

Home plumbing

Common issues

Start here

All guides

Troubleshooting

How-to

Related topics