Plumbing FAQs
Everything you need to know
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Common Plumbing Questions
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There are a lot of DIY methods for unclogging a toilet or drain — from the baking soda and vinegar technique, to plungers, coat hangers, and purchasing a toilet snake. All of these methods can work but are not guaranteed.
Your best bet is to call Plumbing By Paul LLC. Not only will we unclog your toilet or sink, we'll ensure the same thing doesn't happen again any time soon.
Pro Tip: Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper to prevent future clogs.
Grab the plunger! Stop the bowl from filling by controlling the flapper in your toilet's tank, and get plunging. Apply firm, steady pressure — not too aggressive.
If this doesn't help, there may be a bigger obstruction in which case you'll need to call in the pros. Plumbing By Paul is a call away.
Pro Tip: Use a flange plunger for toilets — it creates a better seal than a cup plunger.
This could be caused by a problem with the tap's aerator — a small screen at the tip of the faucet that can get clogged with mineral deposits — or a leak somewhere along its pipeline.
If you cannot fix the problem by cleaning the aerator (unscrew it, rinse it out, replace it), you may be dealing with a bigger issue. Give us a call and we'll diagnose it fast.
Pro Tip: Soak your aerator in white vinegar overnight to dissolve hard water mineral buildup.
Poor water pressure can be caused by hard-water buildup in pipes, hot water tank issues such as sediment buildup, or a problem with the water line such as it being pinched or partially blocked.
Regular maintenance should stop these things from happening — but if they have occurred, you'll need to call in a professional licensed plumber to properly diagnose and resolve the issue.
Pro Tip: Pinellas County has hard water — a water softener can dramatically improve your pressure over time.
Look for the main shutoff valve to your house — it will be outside near your water meter. Turn it clockwise until it stops. This will cut off the water supply to your entire home.
There will be residual water in the pipes if you run a tap but it will clear out with use. If there's a plumbing emergency, this is your first step before calling us.
Pro Tip: Make sure every member of your household knows where this valve is — it's critical in an emergency.
There's often a simple fix for this. The water level in your toilet's tank is controlled by a floating cap. By going inside your tank, you can adjust the cap to stop the running.
If the problem keeps recurring, you may need a replacement fill valve or float. Get in touch with Plumbing By Paul LLC and we can do the job quickly and affordably.
Pro Tip: A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day — don't ignore it!
The two main benefits are water conservation and cost savings. By using significantly less water per flush, you'll be helping the environment and reducing your monthly water bill.
Modern low flush toilets are just as effective as traditional models. Plumbing By Paul can help you choose and install the right model for your home or business.
Pro Tip: A WaterSense certified toilet uses 20% less water than standard models and performs just as well.
If your toilet clogs all the time, chances are there's a large partial obstruction in the drain that grows with each flush. Common causes include using too much toilet paper, or flushing absorbent materials like tampons or wipes.
You could also be experiencing water flow issues or venting issues. Give Plumbing By Paul LLC a call and we'll assess the situation and figure out the best, most affordable repair!
Pro Tip: Only flush toilet paper. Everything else — including "flushable" wipes — belongs in the trash.
Call us immediately! We make ourselves available 24/7 for this exact reason. We'll walk you through any immediate steps while our team is on the way.
If there is potential for electrical danger — for example, water near electrical panels or outlets — keep as far away from the emergency site as possible and do not touch anything electrical until a professional has assessed the situation.
Pro Tip: Know where your main water shutoff valve is before an emergency happens. Shutting it off immediately can minimize water damage.
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Keep Your Plumbing Healthy
A little prevention goes a long way. Here are our top tips for avoiding costly plumbing repairs.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Annual plumbing inspections catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. Prevention is always cheaper than repair.
Only Flush Toilet Paper
No wipes, tampons, paper towels, or other materials — even if labeled "flushable." They are a leading cause of drain blockages.
Use Drain Guards
Install hair traps and drain covers in showers and sinks to catch debris before it enters your pipes and causes a clog.
Know Your Shutoff Valve
Every household member should know where the main water shutoff valve is. In an emergency, shutting it off quickly saves thousands in water damage.
Address Leaks Immediately
Even a small drip can waste thousands of gallons per year. Don't ignore leaks — they get worse and more expensive with time.
Consider a Water Softener
Pinellas County has very hard water. A water softener protects your pipes, extends appliance life, and improves water pressure.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? CALL US 24/7
Our team is available around the clock — for emergencies and everyday questions. We always start with a free estimate.
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