DIY Fixes for Common Home Plumbing Problems

Small plumbing problems can sneak up on anyone. A faucet starts dripping, the toilet won’t stop running, or the kitchen sink drains slow again. It’s frustrating, but most of these problems have easy fixes. 

At Greenwell Plumbing, we’ve spent more than 30 years helping families across New Albany, Louisville, and Southern Indiana keep their plumbing working. Some things you can fix on your own with the right tools and a little patience. The key is knowing when it’s safe to try and when to call someone who does this every day. 

Simple Plumbing Solutions Every Homeowner Should Know 

You don’t need to be a professional to handle the basics. A few quick steps can make a big difference. 

When a Quick Fix Can Save You Time and Money 

That slow drip or weak flush might not seem like a big deal, but it adds up. Water bills climb, fixtures wear out, and sometimes a small leak turns into a big mess. Taking care of problems early keeps your plumbing in good shape and your costs low. 

Why You Should Still Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance 

Even if you handle small things yourself, having a plumber check your system occasionally is smart. They’ll spot things you might miss, like corrosion or slow leaks inside walls. At Greenwell, our team handles full plumbing maintenance for homes around Kentuckiana, so you can relax knowing it’s done right. 

How to Handle a Clogged Drain or Slow Sink 

Clogs are one of the most common issues we see. They build up slowly and usually start in kitchen or bathroom drains. 

Safe DIY Methods That Actually Work 

Grab a plunger or small drain snake first. Most clogs are near the surface and easy to pull out. If you like natural cleaners, pour in baking soda, then vinegar. Wait ten minutes and flush with hot water. For bathroom sinks, take out the stopper and clear away hair or soap scum. 

When to Skip the Chemical Drain Cleaners 

Skip the harsh store-bought drain cleaners. They can eat away at your pipes, especially in older homes around New Albany and Louisville. If you’ve tried the basics and the drain is still slow, stop there. That’s the point where a plumber’s tools can clear it safely. 

Fixing a Running Toilet or Weak Flush 

A running toilet can waste more water than you’d think. Luckily, it’s usually one of the easiest things to fix. 

Checking the Flapper, Chain, and Fill Valve 

Lift the tank lid. If the rubber flapper isn’t sealing tight, water keeps running. Adjust it or replace it if it looks worn. Make sure the chain isn’t tangled and that the fill valve shuts off once the tank fills up. 

When to Replace Internal Toilet Components 

If those parts look fine and the toilet still runs, a rebuild kit usually fixes everything. These kits come with the fill valve, float, and flush parts. They’re easy to install and cost much less than calling for a full replacement. 

Addressing a Dripping Faucet or Leaky Showerhead 

A dripping faucet is annoying and wasteful. Luckily, this one’s simple too. 

Tightening, Replacing Washers, and Cleaning Mineral Build-Up 

Turn off the water under the sink first. Remove the handle and check the washers or cartridge. Replacing them often stops the leak. For showerheads or aerators, soak them in vinegar for about an hour. That breaks down the mineral buildup that blocks flow. 

When Leaks Indicate a Larger Plumbing Issue 

If the drip keeps coming back or water starts pooling underneath, the problem might be deeper in the plumbing. That’s when to call a local plumber. Greenwell’s team can check for bad seals or older pipes before the leak spreads. 

Improving Low Water Pressure at Home 

Low water pressure can make showers and sinks feel weak. It’s frustrating, but you can usually fix it without too much effort. 

Checking Aerators and Showerheads 

Start with the small stuff. Unscrew the faucet aerator or showerhead and soak it in vinegar to remove buildup. Rinse it and screw it back on. You’ll often notice stronger pressure right away. 

Flushing Out Sediment and Calling for a System Inspection 

If the pressure is low everywhere, it may be a sign of buildup inside your water heater or pipes. Try draining the heater to flush sediment once a year. If that doesn’t help, call Greenwell. We can check for blockages, valve problems, or aging lines that might be slowing things down. 

DIY Safety Tips for Home Plumbing Projects 

Even simple jobs can go wrong if you rush. Here are a few reminders: 

• Turn off the water before you start working 
• Keep a towel and small bucket nearby for spills 
• Use tools that fit the fixture, not whatever’s handy 
• Don’t overtighten connections 
• If something feels off, stop and get help 

If you’re unsure about a fix, Greenwell’s team can walk you through small repairs by phone or schedule a quick visit. 

When to Call a Licensed Plumber in Southern Indiana or Louisville 

DIY is great for simple things. Bigger issues need someone with experience and the right tools. 

Situations That Require Professional Service 

You should call a plumber if you see: 

• Water under sinks or behind walls 
• Slow drains in several areas at once 
• Rusty or cloudy tap water 
• Water pressure dropping in the whole house 

These signs often mean bigger problems like leaks, water heater issues, or main line damage. Our team handles repairs like this every day across Southern Indiana and Louisville. 

Why Homeowners Trust Greenwell in the Kentuckiana Area 

Greenwell Plumbing has been part of this community for decades. Families call us because we show up, explain the problem clearly, and don’t leave a mess behind. We give honest prices and a 30-minute call ahead before we arrive, so there are no surprises. 

Schedule a Plumbing Inspection or Repair with Greenwell 

Even the best DIY jobs have limits. Regular professional maintenance helps prevent the problems you can’t see. 

If you’re ready for a full plumbing checkup or you need help with a tricky repair, call Greenwell Plumbing or schedule service online. We’re your trusted New Albany plumber, serving homes across Louisville and Southern Indiana.