As a homeowner, you should be able to make simple repairs on your own. This eliminates the need to call a plumber if a minor issue arises. There are many small plumbing jobs that you can perform on your own with the help of some of the best plumbing tips and tricks. These useful plumbing tips for beginners will require less than an hour to complete, saving you both time and money.

Here are 5 useful plumbing tips for beginners:

1. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
   If you have a clogged drain, don’t reach for a toxic, chemical drain cleaner. They are messy and the fumes can be dangerous if the area isn’t properly ventilated. Use a metal snake that works its way through the drain and pulls out the gunk that builds up in the pipes.
2. Stop Faucet Drips
   When your faucets and shower heads start to drip, the easiest way to tighten the fittings is to use pipe tape. Wrap it around the threads of the pipe and screw it back into the fitting. It helps to create a tighter seal that will prevent drips and leaks.
3. Replace Your Toilet Mechanism
   Most toilets are made up of simple parts that are easy to replace. Toilets are designed to last for many years, but the plastic mechanisms inside the tank may break after the first few years. Many of the components are easy to replace and come with instructions on the package.
4. Use Heat to Loosen Fittings
   Metal pipes that haven’t been loosened for several years can become extremely tight. Heating the fittings with a small propane torch will help to expand the metal and melt away any pipe glue that may be present.
5. Maintain Your Water Heater
   Check your water heater for leaks and adjust the thermostat to a lower setting to save energy. You can also insulate the heater with a tank blanket that prevents heat loss. When installing the blanket, make sure to leave the thermostat exposed. It’s also important to be able to gain access to the water shut off valve as well.

   Making small plumbing repairs isn’t as difficult as many people think. A little common sense and know-how and you won’t have to rely on a plumber to help get you out of a mess. Most packages include simple instructions that allow you to control many plumbing problems.