If you are considering tightening your plumbing fixtures DIY style, it is important to do it properly. An improper repair can lead to even more expenses and safety concerns for your family. These consequences are why we highly recommend that you are acquainted with the process before diving into a DIY repair.
The same principle applies when tending to a broken plumbing fixture. While it is still recommended to work with a skilled plumber, there are times when it is best to provide a temporary solution to prevent further damage. This article will focus on the best and easiest way to fix common household plumbing fixtures.
Steps in Tighten Plumbing Pipes
The good news is that it is easy, even for an untrained person, to tighten plumbing fixtures. The following are steps in ensuring a tight plumbing pipe:
1. Locate loose pipes – Determining which plumbing fixture or pipes need tightening helps make the process seamless. By knowing which part to work on, you can plan things you need and where to start.
2. Shut off the water source – Working with a dry pipe network makes the process easier. Leaving it on will only make leaking worse and water dripping while tightening the loose fixtures.
3. Tighten by turning the pipe to the right – Position yourself comfortably in front of the affected pipes or plumbing fixture. Next, grab the pipe or fixture and start rotating it to the right. You will feel it tighten in a way that will not allow leaks.
4. Use adhesive tape – Using adhesive tape makes tightening more secure. These tapes are soft, pliable and can easily take the shape of the pipe or fixture
5. Contact a local plumber: These are only temporary solutions and we highly recommend engaging the services of a professional plumber if the problem persists..
Tips for Tightening Loose Pipe Fittings
While the aforementioned steps help address loose pipes and other plumbing fixtures, there are other things to keep in mind to make sure all the issues are resolved. Here are some tips when tightening loose pipes and plumbing fixtures:
- Ensure that pipes are hand tight – Hand-tight is the furthest pipes and other fittings should go when tightening plumbing fixtures. Plumbers discourage over-tightening pipes and other fittings. Making it tight beyond hand-tight could result in the warping of rubber fittings inside the pipe over time.
- Loosen to the left, tighten to the right – A rhyme exists that plumbers observe when tightening plumbing fixtures – “lefty loosey, righty tighty.” Opening a jar, faucet and bottle, turning a screw and adjusting plumbing fittings follow the same principle. Turning the pipe right tightens the fixture while turning it left for loosening it.
- Avoid stripping pipe threads – Pipes come with threads allowing fittings to screw onto the pipes to create a tight seal. Over-tightening these pipes may strip these threads inside and outside the pipes.
- Keep pipe fittings warm – Exterior pipes are best wrapped in magnetic insulation. When leaking affects pipes, it increases the chances of freezing, cracking and bursting. Wrapping the pipes allows them to stay warm and protected against hazards associated with harsh weather.
- Use plumber’s tape – As mentioned above, applying plumber’s tape secures the pipe after tightening it. This tape is a plumber’s secret in keeping pipes and other plumbing fittings tightly sealed after an installation or repair. It helps prevent over-tightening, protects against leaks and provides a good seal.
Common Problems Affecting Plumbing Fixtures and How to Avoid It
Different plumbing issues impact pipes in homes and commercial spaces. These range from a simple plumbing problem to more complex issues. Knowing which of these problems could impact your plumbing system helps identify when it happens and how to prevent it. The following are usual issues affecting plumbing fixtures:
- Blocked drain pipes – Objects will get stuck in pipes at some time. When this happens, it interrupts the normal draining of sinks, toilets and other plumbing fixtures. Due to clogged pipes, it is not unsurprising to have a leaking pipe. It is why regular maintenance of every plumbing fixture is a must to avoid clogged drainpipes and other issues.
- Leaky fixtures – Leaking is a common problem affecting plumbing systems in homes and commercial spaces. Several factors contribute to a leaking pipe. All are equally threatening and could damage a fixture or the whole plumbing system. Checking for leaks is the best way to lengthen the life of pipes and other plumbing fixtures.
- Hot water issues – Hot water issues can also contribute to pipe problems. There are times when mineral-rich water causes sediment buildup in water heaters and pipes. Like all plumbing issues, regular upkeep is a must to prevent pipe issues. However, sometimes your hot water system may just be too old and due for replacement.
- Water pressure issues – Water pressure issues can cause loosen pipes and other plumbing fixtures and can cause pipes to burst due to high pressure. Working with a licensed plumber helps keep the proper water pressure and prevent damages.
When to Call a 24Hr Emergency Plumber?
When a DIY project starts acting up, it is best to contact a highly qualified emergency plumbing service professional. These fixes should be treated as a temporary solution rather than a long-term fix. It is always best to work with an experienced and skilled emergency plumber when dealing with the above plumbing issues.
Contact Sydney’s Leading Plumbing Service Provider Today!
At Optimised Plumbing Services, we have some of the best 24 hour plumbers in Sydney. All are licensed and insured per the requirements set by NSW Fair Trading and under a Certificate III in Plumbing. We are also dedicated to offering only the best plumbing services on this side of NSW. Contact Optimised Plumbing Services now to have the trusted and highest-rated emergency plumber in your Sydney home today within the same day!
