Basic Plumbing Fixes Cheat Sheet: DIY Solutions for Common Problems

Cheatsheets

Introduction

This cheat sheet provides step-by-step instructions for fixing common household plumbing issues. With the right tools and techniques, many plumbing problems can be solved without calling a professional. Use this guide to tackle everyday plumbing challenges confidently and save money on service calls.

Essential Tools for Plumbing Repairs

Basic Hand Tools

  • Adjustable wrench: For turning nuts and fittings
  • Pipe wrench: For gripping and turning pipes
  • Channel-lock pliers: For holding and turning various shapes
  • Screwdrivers: Phillips and flathead in various sizes
  • Plunger: Cup style for sinks, flange style for toilets
  • Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape): For sealing threaded connections
  • Plumber’s putty: For creating watertight seals around fixtures
  • Penetrating oil: For loosening stuck parts
  • Utility knife: For cutting materials, removing caulk

Specialized Plumbing Tools

  • Basin wrench: For reaching nuts behind sinks
  • Closet auger (toilet auger): For clearing toilet clogs
  • Drain snake/hand auger: For clearing sink and shower drains
  • Pipe cutter: For clean cuts through pipe
  • Plumber’s snake (25ft+): For reaching deep clogs
  • Tubing cutter: For copper and plastic tubing
  • Strap wrench: For turning without marring chrome
  • Hacksaw: For cutting pipes in tight spaces
  • Compression sleeve puller: For removing compression fittings

Safety Equipment

  • Protective gloves: To protect hands and improve grip
  • Safety glasses: To protect eyes from splashes and debris
  • Bucket and towels: For containing water spills
  • Flashlight or headlamp: For seeing in dark spaces

Fixing Clogged Drains

Sink Drains

  1. Try a plunger first:

    • Fill sink with enough water to cover plunger cup
    • Create tight seal over drain
    • Plunge vigorously 5-10 times
    • Test if drain flows freely

  2. Use baking soda and vinegar:

    • Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down drain
    • Follow with 1/2 cup vinegar
    • Cover drain for 5-10 minutes
    • Flush with hot water

  3. Clean the P-trap:

    • Place bucket under P-trap
    • Unscrew slip nuts at both ends
    • Remove trap and clean
    • Check for objects causing blockage
    • Reassemble, checking for leaks

  4. Use a drain snake:

    • Insert snake into drain
    • Turn handle clockwise while pushing forward
    • When you feel resistance, twist to hook blockage
    • Pull out snake slowly
    • Repeat if necessary
    • Flush with hot water

Bathtub/Shower Drains

  1. Remove visible hair/debris:

    • Remove drain cover/stopper
    • Use needle-nose pliers to pull out visible hair and debris
    • Replace cover

  2. Use a plunger:

    • Remove overflow plate and cover hole with wet cloth
    • Fill tub with enough water to cover plunger cup
    • Plunge vigorously 5-10 times
    • Test drain flow

  3. Use a drain snake:

    • Remove drain cover/stopper
    • Insert snake and turn handle while pushing
    • Work through resistance
    • Pull out slowly to remove blockage
    • Flush with hot water

  4. For shower drains:

    • Try zip-it tool (plastic barbed strip) for hair clogs
    • Insert, twist, and pull up to remove hair

Toilet Clogs

  1. Use a flange plunger:

    • Ensure bowl has enough water to cover plunger head
    • Create tight seal over drain opening
    • Plunge using firm, straight up-and-down motions
    • Start slow, then increase force
    • Maintain seal for 10-15 plunges

  2. Try hot water and dish soap:

    • Pour 1/4 cup dish soap into bowl
    • Add 1 gallon of hot (not boiling) water from waist height
    • Let sit for 5-10 minutes
    • Flush normally

  3. Use a toilet auger/closet auger:

    • Insert curved end into bowl drain
    • Push while turning handle clockwise
    • When you feel resistance, twist and push through
    • Pull back to break up or retrieve blockage
    • Repeat if necessary
    • Flush to test

  4. When to call a professional:

    • If auger doesn’t work after several attempts
    • If toilet regularly clogs
    • If you suspect object stuck deep in trapway

Fixing Leaky Faucets

Compression Faucets (Separate Hot/Cold Handles)

  1. Shut off water supply:

    • Turn off valve(s) under sink
    • Open faucet to release pressure

  2. Disassemble faucet:

    • Remove decorative cap from handle
    • Unscrew handle screw and remove handle
    • Use wrench to remove packing nut
    • Remove stem assembly

  3. Identify and replace worn parts:

    • Check rubber washer at bottom of stem
    • Replace washer if worn or damaged
    • Inspect O-rings for damage and replace if needed
    • Apply plumber’s grease to new parts

  4. Reassemble and test:

    • Install new washer and reassemble in reverse order
    • Turn water supply back on
    • Test for leaks

Cartridge Faucets (Common in Modern Fixtures)

  1. Shut off water supply and drain lines

  2. Remove handle and access cartridge:

    • Remove decorative cap and handle screw
    • Remove handle and cartridge retaining nut/clip
    • Pull cartridge straight up (may require cartridge puller)

  3. Replace cartridge:

    • Take old cartridge to hardware store for exact match
    • Insert new cartridge in same orientation as old one
    • Ensure alignment tabs match up
    • Replace retaining nut/clip

  4. Reassemble and test:

    • Reinstall handle and decorative parts
    • Turn water supply back on
    • Test for leaks

Ball-Type Faucets (Single Handle Kitchen Faucets)

  1. Shut off water and drain lines

  2. Disassemble faucet:

    • Remove handle by loosening set screw
    • Remove cap and collar
    • Remove ball assembly
    • Extract rubber seats and springs using needlenose pliers

  3. Replace parts:

    • Replace O-rings, seats, and springs (available in repair kits)
    • Clean mineral deposits from ball

  4. Reassemble and test:

    • Install new parts
    • Reassemble faucet in reverse order
    • Turn water on and test

Ceramic Disk Faucets

  1. Shut off water and drain lines

  2. Access ceramic disk assembly:

    • Remove handle, cap, and set screw
    • Unscrew and remove ceramic disk assembly

  3. Inspect and clean or replace:

    • Look for cracks in ceramic disk
    • Soak assembly in white vinegar to remove mineral deposits
    • Replace if damaged (entire unit usually replaced)

  4. Reassemble and test:

    • Install new or cleaned assembly
    • Reassemble and test for leaks

Fixing Running Toilets

Identify the Problem

  • Flapper not sealing: Water leaks from tank to bowl
  • Fill valve malfunction: Water continuously enters tank
  • Float adjustment needed: Water level too high, flows into overflow tube
  • Flush valve/overflow tube issues: Water bypassing flapper

Replace a Faulty Flapper

  1. Shut off water supply to toilet

  2. Empty tank:

    • Flush toilet
    • Sponge out remaining water

  3. Remove old flapper:

    • Disconnect chain from flush lever
    • Unhook flapper from pegs or slide off overflow tube

  4. Install new flapper:

    • Attach new flapper to same mounting points
    • Connect chain to flush lever (leave 1/2″ slack)
    • Ensure flapper aligns correctly with valve opening

  5. Test and adjust:

    • Turn water back on
    • Allow tank to fill
    • Flush and watch for proper operation
    • Adjust chain length if needed

Replace Fill Valve

  1. Shut off water and empty tank

  2. Disconnect supply line:

    • Unscrew water supply line from bottom of tank
    • Place bucket to catch drips

  3. Remove old fill valve:

    • Unscrew lock nut from underneath tank
    • Lift out old fill valve assembly

  4. Install new fill valve:

    • Insert new valve into tank hole
    • Secure with lock nut from underneath
    • Attach refill tube to overflow pipe
    • Reconnect water supply line

  5. Adjust water level:

    • Turn water on
    • Adjust float according to manufacturer instructions
    • Water level should be 1″ below top of overflow tube
    • Flush and test for proper filling

Adjust or Replace Flush Valve/Overflow Tube

  1. Shut off water and empty tank

  2. Remove tank (if necessary):

    • Disconnect water supply
    • Unscrew tank bolts
    • Lift tank straight up

  3. Replace flush valve:

    • Remove old flapper
    • Unscrew flush valve nut inside tank
    • Remove old flush valve assembly
    • Install new flush valve with new gasket
    • Secure with flush valve nut

  4. Reinstall tank and test:

    • Place tank back on bowl
    • Secure with tank bolts (don’t overtighten)
    • Reconnect water supply
    • Turn on water and test flush

Fixing Low Water Pressure

Faucet-Specific Low Pressure

  1. Clean aerator:

    • Unscrew aerator from faucet tip
    • Disassemble and rinse all parts
    • Soak in vinegar solution to remove mineral buildup
    • Scrub with old toothbrush if needed
    • Reassemble and reattach

  2. Check for kinked supply lines:

    • Look under sink for bent or kinked flexible supply lines
    • Straighten or replace if damaged

  3. Clean supply line screens:

    • Shut off water supply
    • Disconnect supply lines from shutoff valves
    • Check for and clean screens at connection points
    • Reconnect and test

Showerhead Low Pressure

  1. Clean showerhead:

    • Unscrew showerhead
    • Soak in vinegar solution (50% vinegar, 50% water) for 1 hour
    • Use toothpick to clear individual spray holes
    • Rinse thoroughly and reinstall

  2. Check flow restrictor:

    • Look for plastic disk inside showerhead
    • Remove and clean or replace if allowed by local codes
    • Note: Removing may violate water conservation regulations

  3. Replace showerhead if necessary:

    • Choose high-pressure or water-amplifying models
    • Apply plumber’s tape to shower arm threads
    • Hand-tighten new showerhead

Whole House Low Pressure

  1. Check main shutoff valve:

    • Ensure valve is fully open
    • Look for partial closures or damage

  2. Inspect pressure regulator (if present):

    • Located where main line enters house
    • May need adjustment or replacement
    • Consult manufacturer instructions for adjustment

  3. Check for leaks:

    • Turn off all water in house
    • Check water meter
    • If meter still moves, you have a leak
    • Consider professional help for leak detection

Fixing Leaky Pipes

Temporary Emergency Fixes

  1. Pipe clamp for small holes:

    • Turn off water supply
    • Dry pipe thoroughly
    • Place rubber patch over hole
    • Secure with pipe repair clamp
    • Tighten clamp bolts evenly

  2. Pipe repair tape:

    • Turn off water supply
    • Dry pipe completely
    • Wrap silicone self-fusing repair tape tightly around leak
    • Overlap each wrap by 50%
    • Extend tape 2″ beyond leak in both directions

  3. Epoxy putty:

    • Turn off water
    • Dry and clean pipe surface
    • Knead epoxy until uniform color
    • Press firmly onto leak
    • Allow to cure per instructions (typically 1 hour)

Permanent Pipe Repairs

Copper Pipe Repair

  1. Cut out damaged section:

    • Turn off water and drain pipes
    • Use pipe cutter to remove damaged section
    • Leave enough space for repair fittings

  2. Option 1: Compression coupling:

    • Slide compression nuts onto pipe ends
    • Add compression rings/ferrules
    • Insert coupling between pipe ends
    • Tighten compression nuts with wrenches

  3. Option 2: Soldered repair:

    • Clean pipe ends with emery cloth
    • Apply flux to pipe ends and inside of couplings
    • Slide couplings onto pipe ends
    • Heat joint with torch
    • Apply lead-free solder to joint
    • Allow to cool before pressurizing

  4. Option 3: Push-fit coupling:

    • Ensure clean, straight pipe cuts
    • Mark insertion depth on pipe
    • Push coupling onto pipe ends until marks are reached
    • No tools required for SharkBite®-type fittings

PVC Pipe Repair

  1. Cut out damaged section:

    • Turn off water and drain pipes
    • Cut out damaged section with hacksaw
    • Ensure clean, straight cuts

  2. Install repair coupling:

    • Clean and dry pipe ends
    • Apply PVC primer to pipe ends and inside of couplings
    • Apply PVC cement to same areas
    • Immediately push coupling onto one pipe end
    • Add short section of new pipe if needed
    • Connect to other end of damaged section
    • Hold for 30 seconds
    • Allow to cure per instructions (typically 2 hours before pressurizing)

Fixing Leaky Shut-Off Valves

Compression Valve Repair

  1. Turn off main water supply

  2. Tighten packing nut:

    • Locate slightly loose nut below handle
    • Tighten 1/4 turn with wrench
    • Turn water back on and test
    • If still leaking, continue to next step

  3. Replace packing:

    • Turn off main water
    • Remove handle (unscrew center screw)
    • Unscrew packing nut
    • Remove old packing material
    • Wrap new packing material or O-ring
    • Reassemble and test

  4. Replace valve if needed:

    • If repairs don’t work, valve replacement is necessary
    • Consider calling professional for valve replacement

Ball Valve Repair

  1. Tighten handle screw:

    • Remove decorative cap
    • Tighten handle screw
    • Test for leaks

  2. Replace entire valve if still leaking:

    • Ball valves generally cannot be repaired internally
    • Replacement recommended if tightening doesn’t fix leak

Unclogging Floor Drains

  1. Remove visible debris:

    • Remove drain cover (may require screwdriver)
    • Clear visible debris with gloved hand or tool

  2. Try plunger:

    • Create water seal around plunger
    • Plunge vigorously 10-15 times
    • Test drainage

  3. Use drain snake/auger:

    • Insert snake into drain
    • Turn handle while pushing forward
    • Work through resistance
    • Pull back to remove blockage
    • Repeat as necessary

  4. Locate and use cleanout plug:

    • Find cleanout access point near drain
    • Use pipe wrench to open (turn counterclockwise)
    • Insert snake directly into pipe
    • Clear blockage
    • Replace cleanout plug using plumber’s tape on threads

Fixing Constantly Running Sump Pumps

  1. Check float switch:

    • Ensure float moves freely
    • Adjust float position if needed
    • Clean float of debris
    • Replace if damaged or stuck

  2. Inspect check valve:

    • Look for backward flow when pump stops
    • Ensure valve is installed correctly (arrow pointing away from pump)
    • Clean or replace if not functioning properly

  3. Check for leaks in discharge pipe:

    • Inspect all connections
    • Look for water returning to pit
    • Repair any leaks in discharge line

  4. Verify sump pit integrity:

    • Check for high groundwater seeping in constantly
    • Consider larger capacity pump if water volume is issue
    • Consult professional if groundwater issues are severe

Fixing Water Heater Issues

No Hot Water

  1. Check power source:

    • Electric: Check breaker and reset if tripped
    • Gas: Verify gas valve is open and pilot is lit

  2. Reset electric water heater:

    • Locate reset button (usually red button under thermostat cover)
    • Press firmly to reset

  3. Relight gas water heater pilot:

    • Turn gas control to “Pilot”
    • Press and hold pilot button
    • Use igniter or long lighter to light pilot
    • Continue holding button 60 seconds after pilot lights
    • Turn control to desired temperature

  4. Check heating elements (electric):

    • Turn off power
    • Remove access panels
    • Test elements with multimeter
    • Replace if defective

Leaking Water Heater

  1. Determine leak source:

    • Top: Usually inlet/outlet connections or T&P valve
    • Bottom: Often tank failure requiring replacement

  2. Fix top connections:

    • Tighten loose connections
    • Replace corroded fittings
    • Apply Teflon tape to threads when replacing

  3. Check T&P (Temperature & Pressure) valve:

    • Place bucket under discharge pipe
    • Lift test lever briefly
    • If continues running, replace valve
    • Use Teflon tape on threads when installing new valve

  4. Bottom leaks:

    • Usually indicate tank failure
    • Temporary measure: Reduce temperature
    • Plan for water heater replacement

Noisy Water Heater

  1. Sediment buildup (rumbling noise):

    • Turn off power/gas
    • Turn off cold water supply
    • Connect hose to drain valve
    • Drain and flush tank
    • Refill before restoring power

  2. Heating element noise (electric heaters):

    • Scale buildup on elements
    • Replace elements if noise persists after flushing

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Emergency Situations

  • Major flooding that can’t be stopped with main shutoff
  • Sewage backups into tubs, sinks, or toilets
  • Gas line issues (smell gas, damaged gas pipe)
  • Frozen pipes that may burst
  • No water throughout the house
  • Complete drain line blockages affecting multiple fixtures

Beyond DIY Skills

  • Main sewer line clogs or replacements
  • Water heater replacement
  • Main water line repairs
  • Gas line work (always professional)
  • Major fixture installations (tubs, showers)
  • Significant pipe rerouting
  • Septic system problems
  • Hot water recirculation system installation

Preventive Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly check under sinks for leaks
  • Don’t flush anything but toilet paper
  • Use drain strainers in all sinks and tubs
  • Avoid chemical drain cleaners (damages pipes)
  • Learn locations of all shutoff valves
  • Winterize exterior pipes before freezing weather
  • Have water heater flushed annually
  • Consider professional inspection every 2 years

Remember: This cheat sheet covers basic repairs. If a problem persists or you’re uncomfortable making a repair, consult a licensed plumber. Safety should always be your priority.

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