Des Plaines Plumbing: DIY Fixes for Common Issues

In this article, you'll learn:

• How to fix common plumbing problems yourself with simple solutions for leaky faucets, clogged drains, running toilets, and low water pressure.

• How to recognize when to call a professional for serious issues like sewer backups, hidden leaks, burst pipes, and water heater failures.

• How to prevent costly plumbing emergencies with routine maintenance, early detection, and proactive care to keep your home's plumbing running smoothly.

A leaky faucet, slow drain, or a toilet that will not stop running can wreck your day and your water bill. This guide shows you common plumbing problems and how to fix them yourself safely. If a fix is beyond DIY or you prefer a pro, ABC Plumbing is here 24/7. Keep reading for quick wins, when to call, and a money saving special on drain clearing.

Before You Start: Safety, Shutoffs, and Smart DIY

DIY plumbing can be simple if you prepare. Start by finding your main water shutoff. In most Chicagoland homes it sits on the basement wall near the water meter. Turn it clockwise to stop water during any emergency.

Have these tools on hand:

1. Cup plunger and flange plunger
2. Adjustable wrench and basin wrench
3. Channel locks and Teflon tape
4. Utility knife and bucket
5. Flashlight and rubber gloves

Use manufacturer approved parts. Hand tighten first, then snug with a wrench to avoid overtightening. Never work on gas lines, slab leaks, or buried sewer lines without permits and training.

If you see active flooding, sewage backup, or hear water hissing behind walls, close the main valve and call ABC immediately. Our team uses video camera inspections, acoustic microphones, and trenchless methods to diagnose and repair quickly while minimizing damage.

Dripping or Leaking Faucet

A dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons per year and drive up costs. Most drips come from a worn cartridge, O‑ring, or washer.

DIY fix:

1. Shut off water to the faucet under the sink.
2. Plug the drain so you do not lose small parts.
3. Remove the handle set screw and handle. Take a photo as you go.
4. For cartridge faucets, pull the cartridge and match it at a hardware store. For compression faucets, replace the seat washer and O‑ring.
5. Reassemble with a light coat of plumber’s grease on O‑rings.
6. Turn water on and test.

Call a pro if the shutoff valves are frozen, the handle is corroded, or you have low water pressure throughout the home which can indicate supply line or PRV issues.

Clogged Sink or Slow Drain

Kitchen clogs often form from grease and food particles. Bathroom clogs come from hair and soap.

DIY fix:

1. Start with a cup plunger. Fill the sink until the cup is submerged and plunge for 20 seconds.
2. Clean the stopper and P‑trap. Place a bucket under the trap, loosen the slip nuts, and remove the trap to clear debris. Reassemble with Teflon tape on threads.
3. Use an enzyme drain cleaner for organic buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage pipes and void warranties.

Call ABC if multiple drains are slow. That points to a main line issue. We provide camera diagnostics and high pressure jetting to clear heavy buildup, then verify with a video inspection.

Toilet That Runs Nonstop

A running toilet wastes water and can cost you every month. The issue is usually a worn flapper, tangled chain, or imbalanced fill valve.

DIY fix:

1. Remove the tank lid and check that the chain has a little slack and is not caught under the flapper.
2. Replace the flapper. Turn water off at the valve, drain the tank, unhook the flapper, and clip on a matching part.
3. Adjust the fill valve. The water line should sit about an inch below the overflow tube. Turn the adjustment screw to set the level.
4. Drop a few food coloring drops into the tank. If color seeps into the bowl after 10 minutes without flushing, the flapper is leaking. Replace it.

Call a pro if you see cracks in the tank, corroded bolts, or frequent clogs that point to venting or main line problems.

Weak Shower Pressure

Low pressure can come from mineral buildup, a clogged aerator, a failing pressure reducing valve, or partially closed shutoffs. In older Chicago bungalows, mineral scale from hard water is a common culprit.

DIY fix:

1. Unscrew the showerhead, remove the flow restrictor, and soak parts in vinegar to dissolve scale.
2. Clean or replace faucet cartridges.
3. Check angle stops are fully open.

If several fixtures have low pressure, you may have a supply issue or hidden leak. ABC can perform pressure testing and advanced leak detection using acoustic microphones to pinpoint problems without opening walls blindly.

Garbage Disposal Jams and Smells

Disposals jam on fibrous foods, bones, or foreign objects. Odors come from trapped particles.

DIY fix:

1. Cut power at the breaker. Never put your hand inside the unit.
2. Insert the included hex key into the bottom of the disposal and turn to free the impeller.
3. Press the red reset button.
4. Clean with ice cubes and rock salt to scour, then a little dish soap. Citrus peels help with odor.

Call ABC if the unit hums but will not turn, trips the breaker repeatedly, or leaks at the sink flange or discharge tube.

Water Heater: No Hot Water or Lukewarm Only

For gas tanks, issues include a tripped thermocouple, sediment buildup, or a failing gas control valve. For electrics, one or both elements may have failed. Tankless units may need descaling and filter cleaning.

DIY checks you can do safely:

1. Verify the thermostat setting and relight instructions on the label for older gas tanks.
2. Flush a few gallons from the drain valve to reduce sediment.
3. For electric units, check the breaker and press the high limit reset if accessible.

Stop and call ABC if you smell gas, see scorch marks, or have a leaking tank. We service traditional and tankless heaters, perform annual flushing and descaling, and can recommend Energy Star rated upgrades that reduce operating costs.

Leaking Supply Line or P‑Trap Under Sink

Flexible supply lines and plastic P‑traps can loosen over time.

DIY fix:

1. Place a bucket. Hand tighten slip nuts, then give a quarter turn with channel locks.
2. Replace brittle gaskets and use Teflon tape on threaded connections.
3. If the trap is cracked, replace the entire assembly. Dry fit before final tightening.

If you still see drips, the sealing surface may be warped. ABC can rebuild the drain assembly and ensure a permanent seal.

Toilet Clogs and Backups

Most single fixture clogs respond to a flange plunger or a closet auger.

DIY fix:

1. Add enough water to cover the plunger bell. Plunge steadily for 30 seconds.
2. If still clogged, use a closet auger. Feed it in, turn the handle, and pull back slowly to catch the obstruction.

If toilets gurgle when other fixtures drain, the main line or vent stack may be blocked. ABC provides camera inspections and trenchless repair options that avoid digging up your yard.

Sump Pump Alarms or Failure

Heavy spring rains can overwhelm a weak or aging pump. A failed pump can lead to basement flooding and mold.

DIY checks:

1. Lift the float manually to make sure the pump engages.
2. Clear the pit of debris and ensure the discharge line is not frozen or blocked.
3. Test the check valve arrow is oriented away from the pump.

If the pump is noisy, short cycles, or is over 7 years old, schedule a replacement or a battery backup system. ABC installs primary, backup, and water powered systems sized for your home’s head pressure.

Frozen or Burst Pipes

Chicagoland freeze and thaw cycles can split exposed pipes. If you turn on a faucet and only get a trickle, a line may be frozen.

DIY prevention and response:

1. Open cabinet doors and let warm air circulate to kitchen and bath pipes on exterior walls.
2. Run a slow cold water drip on the coldest nights.
3. If a pipe is frozen, turn off the main water valve, then use a hair dryer on low to thaw the exposed section. Never use an open flame.

If a pipe bursts, shut off the main immediately and call ABC. We respond 24/7 and can perform same day repairs and water cleanup coordination.

Sewage Odor or Gurgling Drains

Sewer gas odors usually point to a dry P‑trap, failed wax ring, or a blocked vent.

DIY checks:

1. Run water in rarely used fixtures to refill dry traps.
2. Replace a toilet wax ring if you notice rocking or water at the base.
3. Inspect the roof vent for visible blockages if it is safe. Do not climb in unsafe conditions.

Persistent odors or gurgling across multiple fixtures often mean a main line restriction. ABC uses sewer cameras to locate the problem and offers trenchless spot repairs when possible.

Leak Detection: Stains, Moldy Smells, or High Bills

Hidden leaks can rot framing and foster mold. Signs include musty odors, peeling paint, or unexplained water usage.

DIY steps:

1. Check your water meter. With all fixtures off, if the small leak indicator spins, you have a leak.
2. Inspect around toilets, under sinks, and near the water heater for dampness.

Call ABC for precise location. Our team uses video cameras and acoustic microphones to find leaks quickly. We can make same day repairs and help prevent future damage with maintenance plans.

Preventative Maintenance That Pays Off

Simple routines avoid most emergencies.

1. Clean faucet aerators and showerheads every 6 months.
2. Flush a few gallons from tank water heaters every 6 months to reduce sediment.
3. Test your sump pump every spring and fall.
4. Do not pour grease down the drain. Use a catch can.
5. Install strainers in showers to capture hair.

ABC offers routine maintenance and our Ultimate Advantage Club for scheduled checkups, discounts on repairs, and no service call charges for members. This keeps your plumbing system reliable year round.

When To DIY and When To Call ABC

DIY is perfect for clogs at a single fixture, minor drips, and simple part swaps. Call us if you have any of the following:

1. Sewage backup anywhere in the home
2. No water to multiple fixtures
3. Gas smell or water heater issues beyond relighting
4. Repeated clogs or slow drains in several rooms
5. Slab leaks, frozen pipes, or burst lines

We provide 24/7 emergency response, upfront pricing you approve before work begins, and warranties on parts and labor. For commercial properties we also offer grease trap service, backflow prevention, and high pressure jetting to protect uptime and compliance.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Chris is comfortable to work with. He clearly knows his trade (and enjoys it). I feel lucky to have had him fixing plumbing problems. ABC is lucky to have him on its team."
–Chris H., Plumbing Service

"Emilio was very professional, knowledgeable about his trade. I would request to have him back if I needed more plumbing services."
–Emilio R., Plumbing Service

"Steven was very professional, answered all my question, briefed me well about the entire plumbing inspections conducted and provided some good advices."
–Steven P., Plumbing Inspection

"Oleh really knows his trade. Found a tough problem very quickly"
–Oleh K., Leak Diagnosis

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a clog is in the main line or just one fixture?

If several fixtures are slow or toilets gurgle when sinks drain, it is a main line issue. One slow sink is usually a local clog.

Is chemical drain cleaner safe for my pipes?

It can damage older pipes and finishes, and it rarely solves heavy buildup. Use a plunger, mechanical cleaning, or call for jetting.

How often should I flush my water heater?

Every 6 to 12 months for tank units. Regular flushing reduces sediment, improves efficiency, and extends lifespan.

What should I do first when a pipe bursts?

Shut off the main water valve, cut power if water is near outlets, and call for emergency service. Document damage for insurance.

Do you offer trenchless sewer repair?

Yes. We inspect with a sewer camera and can complete trenchless spot or full line repairs depending on pipe condition.

With the right steps, many small issues are safe to fix. For bigger problems, you need fast diagnostics and guaranteed repairs. ABC Plumbing is ready with 24/7 help across Chicagoland, from leak detection to trenchless sewer work, and we back it with upfront pricing and solid warranties.

About ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric

ABC is a veteran and family owned home services company trusted across Chicagoland. We provide 24/7 emergency response, upfront by‑the‑job pricing, and our No‑Nonsense Parts & Labor Warranty. All technicians are employees, licensed and background checked. We use advanced tools like sewer cameras, acoustic leak detection, and trenchless repair methods. We back our work with satisfaction guarantees and offer savings through our Ultimate Advantage Club.

ABC Plumbing Locations