While there are plenty of plumbing issues that we are more than happy to do for our clients, there are some tasks that every homeowner and even renter should know. Here are 3 tips & tricks to help you with some daily dilemmas so you can save up in case you need a professional plumber for a bigger job.

1. Clogged Shower Drain. Many people automatically think they need to go out and buy an expensive chemical drain cleaner when the bath water starts to drain like molasses, but that isn’t necessarily true. Try the old-fashioned, hands-on approach first. Find a pair of tweezers or even small clipper scissors then wear a pair of rubber gloves if you want to and as long as they don’t prohibit your hand movement. Stick the tweezers down the drain and pull. Once you have some hair, pull with your fingers until you get as much out as possible. Run water and watch it drain away.

2. Remove the Stink from Your Sink. Your garbage disposal can only do much to remove everything you place in it. Sometimes tiny particles linger and gain traction over time, ultimately resulting in unpleasant odor, which makes dinner preparation unpleasant. Buy a citrus-based dirt and grease remover. Dilute your solvent with water then pour it into your drain to help keep water running smoothly as well as leaving a refreshing scent.

3. Buying the Right Plunger to Get the Job Done. The first step here is to buy the “right” plunger, which is the bell plunger. The key is in the shape, which allows the plunger to make a full seal over the toilet drain.