10 DIY Plumbing Hacks Every Homeowner Should Know Plumbing problems can strike at the worst times and hiring a plumber isn’t always convenient or affordable. Whether you're dealing with a slow drain or a stubborn clog, a little know-how can go a long way. Here are 10 DIY plumbing hacks that every homeowner should have in their back pocket to save money, time, and stress.
1. Unclog a Drain with Baking Soda and Vinegar
One of the oldest (and most effective) tricks in the book. If your sink is draining slowly, skip the harsh chemicals. Instead:
Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
Follow it with 1 cup of white vinegar.
Let it fizz for 15–30 minutes, then flush with hot water.
This natural reaction helps break down grease, soap, and organic debris.
2. Use Zip Ties for Hair Clogs
Hair is the #1 reason bathroom drains clog. Instead of buying expensive drain snakes:
Take a long zip tie and cut small notches on both sides.
Insert it into the drain and pull it back out slowly.
You’ll be surprised (and maybe grossed out) at what comes up.
Repeat monthly to keep your shower or tub flowing freely.
3. Silence Noisy Pipes with Foam
Are your pipes making loud banging noises (aka water hammer)? You don’t need a plumber just some foam pipe insulation:
Cut the foam to size and wrap it around the problem pipes.
Secure with zip ties or tape.
It’s cheap, quiets the noise, and even helps with temperature control.
4. Fix a Running Toilet with a Pencil
If your toilet won’t stop running, the flapper chain might be too loose. A temporary fix:
Wrap a pencil or paperclip in the chain to shorten it.
Adjust until the flapper closes completely after each flush.
For a permanent fix, replace the chain or adjust the float level in the tank.
5. Use Teflon Tape on Shower Heads
A dripping shower head is often caused by loose or poorly sealed threads. The hack:
Remove the shower head.
Wrap Teflon tape clockwise around the threads.
Reattach it tightly and test.
This simple fix can stop leaks and improve water pressure.
6. Stop a Dripping Faucet with a Wrench and Washer
A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water each week. If it's a compression faucet:
Turn off the water supply.
Unscrew the faucet handle.
Replace the rubber washer inside with a new one (costs under $1).
Reassemble and test. This fix takes less than 15 minutes!
7. Install Mesh Screens to Catch Debris
Prevention is the best hack of all. To avoid clogged kitchen and bathroom drains:
Install small mesh screens over each drain.
Clean them weekly.
This stops hair, food particles, and soap chunks from entering your pipes.
8. Use a Plunger the Right Way
Yes there’s a right way! For best results:
Cover the overflow hole with a wet cloth (if plunging a sink).
Add enough water to cover the plunger’s cup.
Use short, sharp thrusts for 20–30 seconds.
Use a cup plunger for sinks, and a flange plunger for toilets.
9. Clean Your Showerhead with Vinegar
Mineral buildup reduces water flow over time. To restore it:
Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar.
Secure it around the showerhead with a rubber band.
Let it soak overnight, then scrub with a toothbrush.
You’ll be amazed at the restored pressure!
10. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is
This isn’t a hack it’s survival. In an emergency (burst pipe, overflowing toilet), shutting off the main valve quickly can save you thousands in damage.
Locate your main shut-off valve (usually in the basement or near the water meter).
Make sure it’s accessible and turns easily.
Bonus tip: label it clearly, and show all household members where it is.
Final Thoughts
With a few tools, household items, and a little patience, you can tackle many minor plumbing issues yourself. These DIY hacks are safe, affordable, and empowering just remember to know your limits. For anything involving gas lines, sewage backups, or deep pipe work, always call a licensed professional.
Want a printable checklist version of this? Or a visual infographic? Let me know and I’ll whip one up.