Diagnosing Plumbing Issues

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name: diagnosing-plumbing-issues
description: Diagnoses plumbing problems through systematic troubleshooting and provides repair solutions. Use when dealing with leaks, clogs, pressure issues, or other plumbing malfunctions.
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# Plumbing Issue Diagnosis and Repair

Water pressure drop troubleshooting:

1. Check main shutoff valve (fully open?)
2. Test multiple fixtures (isolated or system-wide?)
3. Check water meter for leaks (spinning when all water off?)
4. Inspect pressure regulator (40-80 PSI normal)

Initial Assessment

• Identify symptom type (leak, clog, pressure, noise, temperature)
• Determine scope (single fixture, room, or whole house)
• Check for obvious visual signs (water damage, corrosion, loose fittings)
• Test water flow and pressure at multiple points

Systematic Diagnosis

• Start closest to main line, work toward fixtures
• Use appropriate tools (pressure gauge, snake, leak detector)
• Document findings and measurements
• Identify root cause vs. symptoms

Repair Planning

• Assess complexity (DIY vs. professional required)
• List required materials and tools
• Plan water shutoff strategy
• Consider code compliance requirements

Example 1: Kitchen Sink Low Pressure Input: "Kitchen sink has very low water pressure, but bathroom faucets work fine" Output:

• Check aerator for mineral buildup (unscrew, clean, reinstall)
• Inspect supply lines under sink for kinks or partial closure
• Test shutoff valves (turn fully counterclockwise)
• If cartridge faucet, replace cartridge

Example 2: Running Toilet Input: "Toilet keeps running after flush" Output:

• Check flapper seal (warped or debris preventing closure)
• Adjust chain length (slight slack when flapper closed)
• Test fill valve (replace if water keeps flowing)
• Verify float level (bend arm to adjust water level)

Example 3: Slow Drain Input: "Bathroom sink drains very slowly" Output:

• Remove popup stopper, clean hair/debris
• Use plunger (cover overflow with wet rag)
• Snake drain if plunging fails
• Check P-trap for clogs (place bucket underneath first)

• Always shut off water before starting repairs
• Test thoroughly after repairs (run water, check for leaks)
• Use proper pipe dope/tape on threaded connections (3-4 wraps clockwise)
• Match materials (copper to copper, PVC to PVC fittings)
• Check local codes for permit requirements on major work
• Have backup plan if repair goes wrong (emergency plumber contact)

• Over-tightening fittings - causes cracks and leaks
• Mixing incompatible materials - galvanic corrosion with dissimilar metals
• Ignoring shutoff valve locations - know where to stop water quickly
• Using wrong tools - pipe wrenches on fixtures, adjustable wrenches on pipes
• Forcing stuck parts - heat or penetrating oil first, then gentle persuasion
• Forgetting to test pressure - always check system pressure after major repairs

1. Stop water flow - locate and turn shutoff valves
2. Minimize damage - move valuables, contain flooding
3. Document for insurance - photos of damage before cleanup
4. Temporary solutions - pipe clamps, shut-off, or bypass until permanent repair