Troubleshooting Common Household Problems

For many of us, our homes are our castles. But when something goes wrong, knowing how to fix the problem can be difficult. If you're looking for a little do-it-yourself guidance, this blog is here to help!

Today, Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling will discuss how to troubleshoot common household plumbing and HVAC issues, such as resetting your garbage disposal, recalibrating your thermostat, and knowing when you should call for professional assistance. We have the information you need!

Resetting Your Garbage Disposal

If your garbage disposal is clogged or jammed up with food particles, it may need to be reset. To do this, follow these steps.

Start by unplugging the unit from its power source (usually a wall outlet).
Next, locate the red reset button on the bottom side of the unit.
Press and hold this button until you hear a clicking sound. This means the motor has been reset and is now ready for operation.
Finally, plug the unit back in and turn it on at the wall switch.

If it still isn't working correctly after that, call a professional for assistance, as there can be a more serious issue.

Stopping a Running Toilet

A running toilet can be one of the most annoying sounds in any household and can significantly increase your water bill! Fortunately, there are some simple fixes you can try yourself before calling a plumber.

First, check to ensure that none of the shut-off valves beneath the tank are open or loose. These should always remain closed off when not in use.
Second, check the flapper valve located inside the tank. Make sure no debris has become lodged.
If that doesn't work, try replacing both parts. You can find a flapper valve kit at your nearest hardware store, which is relatively inexpensive.
If all else fails—call a professional!

Checking Anode Rods in Water Heaters

An anode rod is an essential part of any water heater because it helps protect against corrosion in metal tanks by attracting corrosive elements away from other surfaces within the tank. The rod should be checked once every year because it will eventually corrode and rust if left unchecked for too long. If that happens, the health and operation of your water heater can be in jeopardy.

To check it out yourself, follow these steps:

Start by draining several gallons of water from your tank into a bucket or drain pan (be sure to wear protective gear).
Next, remove any access panels or covers on top of your water heater and locate the anode rod. It should look like a long metal rod with several wires attached to it (if you can't find it easily, give us a call!).
Finally, inspect the anode rod's condition. If it looks severely corroded, it should be replaced immediately before further damage occurs.

Note: Replacing the anode rod may require professional assistance to ensure it is installed correctly. If this is the case, give us a call! (800) 717-1793

Recalibrating Your Thermostat

Your thermostat plays a vital role in controlling the temperature within your home, so if something isn't quite right with its calibration, there could be severe consequences.

To recalibrate without calling an HVAC technician, follow these steps:

Start by taking off any covers or panels around your thermostat, then locate two screws inside that control calibration level (they will usually have "CAL1" and "CAL2" written near them).
Turn these screws clockwise until they reach their desired level. You may need to adjust both screws as needed until everything is calibrated correctly (consult the user manual for more details).
Finally, replace all covers/panels onto the thermostat and test calibration levels again—if all checks out, then great job!

Additionally, dust buildup on internal parts can cause inaccurate readings, so try cleaning those with compressed air once every few months or so for the best results.

Following these simple steps outlined above, we hope you gained valuable troubleshooting skills necessary for tackling common household plumbing and HVAC issues before calling in professionals.

Professional Help You Can Trust

If your troubleshooting tactics fail to work, contact our trained professionals at Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling for help! Contact us online or give us a call. (800) 717-1793