Read Ebook: Simple Plumbing Repairs for the Home and Farmstead by Anonymous

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If the obstruction is in a fixture trap, usually the trap can be removed and cleared. If the obstruction is elsewhere in the pipe other means must be used.

Cleanout augers--long, flexible, steel cables commonly called "snakes"--may be run down drainpipes to break up obstructions or to hook onto and pull out objects. Augers are made in various lengths and diameters and are available at hardware and plumbing-supply stores.

Small obstructions can sometimes be forced down or drawn up by use of an ordinary rubber force cup .

Grease and soap clinging to a pipe can sometimes be removed by flushing with hot water. Lye or lye mixed with a small amount of aluminum shavings may also be used. When water is added to the mixture, the violent gas-forming reaction and production of heat that takes place loosens the grease and soap so that they can be flushed away. Use cold water only. Chemical cleaners should not be used in pipes that are completely stopped up, because they must be brought into direct contact with the stoppage to be effective. Handle the material with extreme care and follow directions on the container. If lye spills on the hands or clothing, wash with cold water immediately. If any gets into the eyes, flush with cold water and call a doctor.

Sand, dirt, or clothing lint sometimes clogs floor drains. Remove the strainer and ladle out as much of the sediment as possible. You may have to carefully chip away the concrete around the strainer to free it. Flush the drain with clean water.

When drains have become partially clogged due to lack of water to transport all solids through them, large buckets or other containers should be used to flush them. Water should be poured fast enough to nearly fill the drain.

Occasional flushing of floor drains may prevent clogging.

Outside Drains

Roots growing through cracks or defective joints sometimes clog outside drains or sewers. You can clear the stoppage temporarily by using a root-cutting tool. However, to prevent future trouble, you should re-lay the defective portion of the line, using sound pipe and making sure that all joints are watertight.

If possible, sewer lines should be laid out of the reach of roots. But if this is impossible or impracticable, consider using impregnated fiber pipe which tends to repel roots.

TOOLS AND SPARE PARTS

Basic tools that you should have on hand to make simple plumbing repairs include:

Wrenches, including pipe wrenches, in a range of sizes to fit the pipe, fittings, fixtures, equipment, and appliances in the system.

Screwdrivers in a range of sizes to fit the faucets, valves, and other parts of the system.

Ball peen hammer or a 12- or 16-ounce clawhammer.

Rubber force cup .

Cold chisel and center punch.

Cleanout auger .

Friction tape.

Adjustable pliers.

Additional tools required for more extensive plumbing repairs include:

Pipe vise.

Set of pipe threading dies and stocks.

Hacksaw and blades .

Pipe cutter, roller type.

Tapered reamer or half-round file.

Carpenter's brace.

Set of wood bits.

Gasoline blowtorch.

Lead pot and ladle.

Calking tools.

Copper tube cutter with reamer .

Always use the proper size wrench or screwdriver. Do not use pipe wrenches on nuts with flat surfaces; use an adjustable or open-end wrench. Do not use pipe wrenches on polished-surface tubings or fittings, such as found on plumbing fixtures; use a strap wrench. Tight nuts or fittings can sometimes be loosened by tapping lightly with a hammer or mallet.

It should not be necessary to stock a large number of spare parts. Past plumbing troubles may give some indication as to the kind of parts most likely to be needed. Spare parts should include:

Faucet washers and packing.

One or two lengths of the most common type and size of piping in the plumbing system.

Several unions and gaskets or unions with ground surfaces.

Several couplings and elbows.

A few feet of pipe strap.

An extra hose connection.

EMERGENCIES

Grouped below are emergencies that may occur and the action to take. The name, address, and phone number of a plumber who offers 24-hour service should be posted in a conspicuous place.

Hot-water and steam heating systems should also be drained when the house temperature may drop below freezing.

U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1972 O-478-903

Transcriber Note

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