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4 Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing Problems

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) About Plumbing Problems

Do you have issues with your plumbing system, but don’t quite know what they are?
Are you looking for a way to fix an issue without having to spend money on a professional? If you have some questions you need answered before you decide to call a plumber, this page can help you.

How can I get rid of a mineral deposit buildup on my shower head?

If you’re having problems with a mineral deposit, vinegar is your best bet. It’s as simple as pouring some vinegar into a plastic bag and tying it around your shower head — just check to make sure there are no leaks in the bag. Leave it to soak for six to eight hours, then come back and wipe it off using a scrub brush or abrasive material.

Why is my garbage disposal system emitting an odor, and how can I prevent this?

Odor coming from your garbage disposal system is generally caused by food waste that has built up a smell over time. You can easily and quickly solve this problem by using acidic foods such as lemon or orange peels to counter the smell. Simply put the peels inside the disposal system, mixed with ice, and let your system run for about thirty seconds. Next, add a bit of dish detergent into the system while running cold water, and rinse the disposal system out.

My plumbing system is making a loud banging sound. What is causing this?

This is known as water hammer. It is caused when your air cushion leaks out of the pipes. While this may seem like a serious issue with your system, It is actually very easy to fix and won’t cost you anything. Shut off your main water supply, and turn all of your faucet handles to the ON position. Then simply turn your main water supply back on, and turn all of your faucet handles back off. This should fix the noise.

I think my kitchen sink is clogged. Is there any way I can fix this problem myself?

There are a number of potential fixes to this problem that you can try in this order:
First, try using a plunger to remove blockage. This will usually work if the clog is close to the surface. Though widely accepted, we do not recommend using harsh chemicals (such as liquid drain cleaner) in the drain system. Not only can it lead to future problems with the drain system, but it tends to only provide a short term solution. If the problem still persists, you can open the trap (U shaped pipe under the sink), and clean the pipe out. This is probably the most common area that blockages occurs. If none of these options work, you can purchase a drain stick (the longer, the better). Use the drain stick to try to remove the blockage that is further down the drain.

Have a question about plumbing? Ask the Plumber!