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Plumbing FAQs

Jake the Plumber standing next to his truck

Ever wonder when it’s time to call a plumber, or if you can do a fix yourself? At Jake the Plumber, our team gets a lot of the same questions from homeowners across the Minneapolis–St. Paul area. Below are simple answers to the most common plumbing concerns — plus safe DIY tips when possible.

 

Common causes:

  • Hair (bathroom drains)
  • Grease and food buildup (kitchen sinks)
  • Soap scum buildup

DIY Fix:

  • Use a plunger first.
  • Remove and clean the drain stopper in bathroom sinks.
  • Pour hot (not boiling) water down kitchen drains to break up grease.

Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they can damage pipes.

Read more about how to use a drain snake in Jake's News here: How to Use a Drain Snake - Jake The Plumber

Call Jake the Plumber if:
Multiple drains are slow or backing up at once.

 

Common causes:

  • Worn flapper valve
  • Faulty fill valve
  • Improper chain length

DIY Fix:
Open the tank and check if the flapper seals properly. Replacing a flapper is inexpensive and available at hardware stores.

Read more about how to fix a running toilet in Jake's News here: Why Does My Toilet Keep Running? Here’s How to Fix It - Jake The Plumber

Call Jake the Plumber if:
Replacing the flapper  and the fill valve doesn’t solve the issue or the toilet leaks at the base.

 

Common causes:

  • Tripped breaker (electric)
  • Pilot light out (gas)
  • Failed heating element
  • Leaking water heater

DIY Fix:

  • Check your circuit breaker.
  • If gas, see if the pilot light is out (follow manufacturer instructions carefully).

Read more about hot water heater choices here: Water Heaters - Jake The Plumber

Call Jake the Plumber if:
There’s no hot water at all, the tank leaks, or you hear popping/banging noises. 

 

Immediate steps:

  1. Turn off the main water supply.
  2. Open faucets to relieve pressure.
  3. Gently warm the pipe with a hair dryer (never use an open flame).

Read more about how to fix frozen pipes here: How to Fix Frozen Water Pipes and Drains - Jake The Plumber

Call Jake the Plumber if:
The pipe is cracked or you can’t locate the frozen section.

 

Cause:
Food particles trapped inside.

DIY Fix:

  • Run cold water and grind ice cubes.
  • Add baking soda and vinegar.

Grind citrus peels for a fresh scent.

Call Jake the Plumber if:
The disposal hums but doesn’t spin or frequently trips the breaker.

 

Short answer: No.

They can:

  • Damage pipes
  • Harm septic systems
  • Create dangerous fumes

Mechanical cleaning (snaking) is safer and more effective long-term.

Read more about chemical drain "cleaners" here: Chemical Drain Cleaners…Or Not? - Jake The Plumber 
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