There is not one homeowner who likes to deal with a plumbing issue. If an issue happens, you want o make sure to have it fixed as soon as you can. The first question that you often ask is whether you can fix the issue yourself or you must hire a professional plumber. Your next questions include how serious the task is going to be and if fixing it would be an expensive matter. This post is a guide to the most common plumbing issues such as leaking taps and what to do with each of them.

1. Leaking taps

This issue may be one of the simplest ones there are but can also be the most annoying. If you experience dripping taps, you should be able to address the concern if you must fix it or if you must have your entire tap replaced. Choosing between the two options depends on two factors.

First, the leak is caused by a washer. Washers experience wear and tear and could end up disappearing. Once this takes place, water will start to leak. Washers are very easy to replace. If you are experienced in repairing stuff, you can do the task yourself. If not, you can hire a plumber to get things done for you. It will not take them long yet you will be charged a minimum call-out fee. Second, the leak is caused by a broken part. If this is the case, replacing the entire tap is a must. Buying parts is more expensive than the cost it entails to get a new tap. The only exception will be when your tap is already expensive on its own.

2. Burst pipe

Compared with leaking taps, a burst pipe can get very dramatic. You know you have this plumbing issue when water is dripping out of your ceiling or wall. What you must first do is to turn off your main water source. Generally, this is a tap found on the boundary of your property. After the mains are shut off, you then call a trusted plumber. This is a serious issue that no handyman will be able to deal with themselves.

3. Leaking hot water cylinder

If you see water around your hot water cylinder, this could mean one of two things. First, your connections may be leaking. Once you have found the leak, the repair work entails a relatively simple one. Second, the leaking may come from your cylinder already. This is often caused by your cylinder corroding or rusting. In this instance, you will need to have your entire cylinder replaced that is a major task to finish.

4. Tap does not turn off

When your tap does not turn off, you have to turn off your water further upstream. If it is a hot water tap, turn it off at the base of your hot water cylinder. This will ensure that no hot water will be draining out. On the other hand, if it is a cold-water tap, you have to turn it off at your water mains. Once you have turned them off, your choices of action are similar to those of a leaking tap. You may have it repaired or replaced.

5. Leaking water main

It is best to call a plumber who will take care of the job using modern technology to help them pinpoint the source of the leak before they do some digging.