Plumbing Issues You can Fix Yourself to Prevent Water Damage
A plumbing problem can turn into a nightmare in the time it takes a professional to arrive. Luckily, the most common problems can be handled by anyone to prevent water damage.
Clogged Toilet
Plumbing Issues You can Fix Yourself to Prevent Water Damage
Limit the fallout from a clogged toilet by removing the top of the tank and unhooking the “flap”, the rubber piece that’s out of place when the toilet runs. The clog can be fixed by placing the plunger over the hole, not in it. Make sure there’s enough water to cover the plunger and create suction. Don’t give up too soon; sometimes it takes a few minutes. If the clog is organic, heat water (do not boil) and pour a half a box of baking soda into the bowl, followed by enough vinegar to equal the hot water, followed by the water. Let it sit for several hours before flushing.
Dishwasher Won’t Drain
A dishwasher that doesn’t drain is a common complaint, but one that can be handled at home. Use a ladle to scoop the standing water into a bucket and when the level is too low, soak up the remainder with towels. Check the bottom to make sure nothing is blocking the drain. Next, check the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Dishwashers have filters that need regular cleaning; check the owner’s manual for directions.
Clogged Shower Drain
Nobody likes starting the day by standing in shower water from a clogged drain. The usual culprit is hair, and while it’s gross, it’s also easy to fix. Use a screwdriver to pry off the drain cover and look down the drain with a flashlight. If you see a hairball, pull it out or use a straightened wire coat hanger bent into a hook shape. If you can’t see it, try using a plunger to bring the clog closer or the baking soda/hot water trick.
If you live in San Jose, CA and find yourself in over your head, call the professionals at Water Damage Restoration Services. Water damage won’t go away on its own so let them restore and repairRepair is the act of fixing or restoring damaged property, m... More your home or business.
About Vince Sandri
Vince Sandri is a disaster restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More content specialist with more than 12 years of experience researching, writing, and educating property owners about water damage, fire and smoke damage, mold remediationMold remediation is the process of identifying, removing, an... More, storm damage, and other disaster recovery topics. Since 2014, he has served as the leadLead is a heavy metal that can be toxic to humans, especiall... More contributor to RestorationMasterFinder.com, where he has developed hundreds of in-depth service pages, educational guides, and industry-focused articles for restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More professionals across the United States.
Through extensive research and ongoing collaboration with restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More contractors, Vince has built a strong foundation in the science, processes, and best practices behind property damage mitigation and recovery. His work helps homeowners, business owners, and property managers understand how disasters impact structures, what immediate steps to take, how professional restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More works, and how to prevent long-term structural and health risks.
Vince specializes in translating complex restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More procedures — including water extraction, structural dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More, smoke odorAn odor is a smell, often detectable by the human nose, whic... More removal, moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More containment, and storm damage repairRepair is the act of fixing or restoring damaged property, m... More — into clear, actionable information that empowers readers to make informed decisions during high-stress situations. His content aligns with industry standards and focuses on safety, accuracy, and practical response strategies.
He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Aurora University and his master’s degree from DePaul University. Since 2012, Vince has focused on SEO-driven website content, technical service pages, and educational resourcesResources include tools, personnel, equipment, and materials... More within the disaster restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More industry.
Outside of his professional work, Vince is also a musician and performs in the Chicago, IL area.
