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When a plumbing issue pops up, your first instinct might be to reach for the phone—and sometimes, that’s exactly the right move. But not every plumbing problem needs a professional right away. In fact, there are several minor fixes that are perfectly safe (and easy!) to tackle on your own. At Mayes & Sons Plumbing Co., we believe in empowering homeowners with the knowledge to handle the basics—while always being here when things go beyond a quick fix.
Here are five DIY plumbing repairs that are safe to try at home.
1. Unclogging a Slow Drain
If your sink or shower is draining slowly, chances are it's just a buildup of hair, soap scum, or other debris. Before reaching for chemical drain cleaners (which can damage your pipes over time), try this:
Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain.
Let it fizz for 15-30 minutes.
Rinse with hot water.
You can also use a plastic drain snake or hair removal tool to fish out visible clogs. Just be gentle to avoid damaging the drain.
2. Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet can waste gallons of water a day and hike up your utility bill. Thankfully, it’s often a simple fix:
Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper.
If the flapper is worn or not sealing properly, replace it (they’re inexpensive and found at any hardware store).
Check the chain for tangles or excess slack that might prevent the flapper from closing.
These parts are designed to be DIY-friendly and require no special tools.
3. Replacing a Showerhead
Swapping out an old or leaky showerhead is one of the easiest plumbing updates you can do yourself:
Unscrew the existing showerhead (you may need an adjustable wrench).
Clean the threads and apply fresh plumber’s tape.
Screw on the new showerhead by hand or using the wrench with a cloth for protection.
You’ll be surprised how much a new fixture can improve water pressure and efficiency.
4. Fixing Low Water Pressure at a Faucet
If only one faucet is experiencing low pressure, it’s likely due to a clogged aerator. Here’s how to clean it:
Unscrew the aerator from the tip of the faucet.
Soak it in vinegar to dissolve buildup.
Scrub with an old toothbrush and rinse before reattaching.
This simple step can instantly restore proper flow.
5. Stopping a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it can waste a lot of water over time. If you’re comfortable turning off your water supply and using a wrench, try replacing the worn-out washer or O-ring inside the faucet. Be sure to:
Turn off the water under the sink.
Plug the drain to avoid losing small parts.
Reassemble carefully and test for leaks.
If you're unsure at any point, it's always okay to call in the pros.
Don’t Hesitate to Call the Experts
While these DIY plumbing fixes are safe and manageable for most homeowners, it’s important to recognize your limits. If a job feels too complex or you’re not getting the results you expected, our licensed professionals at Mayes & Sons Plumbing Co. are just a phone call away.
Don’t let a small issue turn into a big problem—contact us today for reliable, friendly plumbing service you can trust.