If a faucet drips or a pipe startes to hiss, you don't have to call a pro right away. Most plumbing problems have a simple fix that you can do with a wrench, some tape, and a bit of patience. Below you'll find straight‑forward advice for the most common issues you’ll face around the house.
Leaking taps are one of the easiest things to stop. Turn the water off at the valve under the sink, then remove the tap handle. Usually a worn washer is the culprit – just replace it with a new one from the hardware shop. Tighten everything back up and you should hear far less water.
For a pipe that’s dripping at a joint, the quick fix is pipe‑wrap tape. Wrap the tape tightly around the joint, overlapping each turn by half. Turn the water back on and watch the drip disappear. If the pipe continues to leak, you probably need a proper repair clamp, but the tape buy‑time is often enough to schedule a professional.
Boilers need a yearly service to stay efficient. During the service a qualified engineer will check the pressure, clean the burner, and test the safety valve. If you hear odd noises or notice the heat taking longer to kick in, call a Gas Safe engineer right away – it could be a sign of a bigger issue.
Water heaters have a reset button on the front. If the water gets too hot and the heater shuts off, press the reset. If it trips again, the thermostat might be faulty or there could be a build‑up of sediment. Flushing the tank once a year helps keep it running smoothly. Just attach a garden hose to the drain valve, open the valve, and let the water run until it looks clear.
When you hear a hissing sound from a boiler or water heater, it’s usually a pressure problem. Check the pressure gauge – it should sit between 1 and 1.5 bar when the system is cold. If it’s higher, release some pressure using the bleed valve. If the pressure keeps falling, you likely have a leak that needs a professional eye.
Another quick tip for toilets, which are technically appliances, is to stop a running toilet by adjusting the float. Lift the tank lid, locate the float arm, and slide the clip down a notch. This reduces the water level and stops the constant refill.
Remember, safety first. Always shut off the water supply before tackling any repair and never work on gas‑related parts unless you’re certified. A simple piece of knowledge can save you a callout fee and keep your home running smoothly.
Keep this page bookmarked and use it as a cheat‑sheet whenever you hear a drip, a clank, or a hiss. Small fixes now prevent big headaches later, and you’ll feel more confident handling the everyday plumbing quirks of your home.
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