Sink Repair: Common Issues and DIY Solutions

Have you ever stood at the sink, watching water pool around your feet or drip endlessly from the faucet? You’re not alone. Sink problems have a way of turning a regular day upside down, whether you’re at home or running a business.

At JJL Plumbing, we know how a little leak or slow drain can quickly become a bigger headache. Our team helps homeowners and businesses tackle these plumbing issues every day, with a focus on safe, lasting solutions.

Common Sink Failures 🚰

Sinks work hard—day in, day out. But sooner or later, they show their age. Here are the usual suspects:

• Leaky faucets: That steady drip-drip may seem harmless, but it can waste gallons over time.
• Clogged drains: Soap, grease, hair, and food scraps can build up, slowing or blocking water flow.
• Low water pressure: A sudden trickle could mean a clogged aerator or larger plumbing issue.
• Loose handles or fixtures: Wobbly parts may signal worn-out washers or mounting nuts.
• Strange odors: Unpleasant smells often point to trapped food or bacteria in the drain.

Ignoring these problems lets them grow roots—sometimes literally, if tree roots invade pipes! (The Environmental Protection Agency warns about water waste and the hazards of untreated leaks.)

Leaky Faucet Fixes

A dripping faucet can sound like money going down the drain. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Shut off the water: Look under the sink for the shutoff valves. Turn them clockwise.
2. Plug the drain: Small screws and washers like to escape.
3. Remove the handle: Usually, a small screw hides under a decorative cap.
4. Inspect washers and O-rings: Worn rubber is a common culprit. Bring old parts to the hardware store for a perfect match.
5. Reassemble and test: Turn the water back on slowly.

If you’re still hearing that drip, the problem could be deeper—a damaged valve seat or corroded pipe. That’s the time to get help from professionals who handle sink repair every day.

Unclogging Drains

A slow or stopped drain can bring your kitchen or bathroom to a standstill. Try these steps:

• Boiling water: Sometimes, a simple flush clears mild clogs.
• Plunger: Create a tight seal and use quick, firm pushes.
• Baking soda and vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda, then half a cup of vinegar, down the drain. Wait 10 minutes, then flush with hot water.
• Manual removal: Remove the trap beneath the sink (have a bucket ready). Clean out any debris.

Never, ever use chemical drain cleaners. They can corrode pipes and harm your plumbing system—just like pouring acid on garden weeds.

If repeated clogs keep coming back, it could mean a bigger issue, like a problem deeper in your sewer line. That’s when you need professional Kitchen Plumbing.

Quick Safety Checklist 🛠️

• Always turn off water before repairs.
• Use rubber gloves when dealing with dirty drains.
• Never mix cleaning products; fumes can be hazardous.
• For anything involving gas lines or electrical wiring near your sink, call a licensed plumber.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Some fixes are safe and simple—think changing a washer or clearing a mild clog. But plumbing can be like an iceberg: what you see on the surface is just a piece of the whole story.

DIY is okay when:

• The leak is from a visible, accessible part.
• You’re comfortable using basic tools.
• There’s no risk of flooding or electrical hazards.

Call a plumber when:

• Water is leaking into cabinets, floors, or walls.
• Pipes or fixtures are corroded or cracked.
• You notice mold, persistent odors, or recurring clogs.
• Water pressure suddenly drops for no clear reason.

The Uniform Plumbing Code and local building codes require licensed pros for many repairs. Safety matters, especially for commercial plumbing.

What Plumbers Do On Arrival

When JJL Plumbing visits, here’s what to expect:

• Careful inspection for leaks, corrosion, or hidden damage.
• Use of specialized tools, like video inspection cameras, to spot deep clogs.
• Repair or replacement of worn-out parts.
• Testing to ensure everything flows smoothly and safely.

We don’t just patch the problem—we look for the root cause, so you don’t have to call again next week.

Preventing Sink Problems

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of plungers. Try these habits:

• Don’t pour grease or coffee grounds down the drain.
• Use sink strainers to catch food, hair, and debris.
• Run hot water for a minute after each use.
• Regularly check under the sink for drips or dampness.

Schedule annual plumbing checkups, especially for older buildings or busy businesses. Preventative maintenance can save you money and headaches.

Costs & Time Factors

Small fixes, like changing a washer, might take 15 minutes and a few dollars. Major repairs—like replacing corroded pipes—can take several hours and require specialized parts.

Commercial sink repairs may involve additional code requirements and downtime, so plan accordingly.

When It’s an Emergency 🚨

Call for help right away if:

• Water is flooding your kitchen or bathroom.
• You smell gas near the sink or appliance.
• There’s electrical sparking or buzzing near pipes.

Quick action protects your property and your health.

Seasonal Considerations

Cold winters can freeze pipes beneath sinks, causing them to burst. In spring, heavy rains can back up drains. Check insulation and drainage, and call for a plumbing inspection before trouble starts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-tightening fittings (easy to crack pipes).
• Using the wrong size washers or parts.
• Ignoring small leaks—water always finds a way.
• Forgetting to turn off the water supply.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Rising water bills.
• Water stains or musty smells under cabinets.
• Gurgling sounds from drains.
• Rust or mineral buildup on fixtures.

These are red flags. Don’t wait for a minor issue to become an expensive repair.

Timeline & Disruption

Many sink repairs can be completed in a single visit. But if parts must be ordered or damage is extensive, allow extra time. JJL Plumbing works to minimize disruption, leaving your space as clean as we found it.

Materials & Tools You Might Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdrivers
• Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
• Replacement washers or cartridges
• Bucket and old towels

Keep a small toolkit handy, but know your limits. If you’re not sure, call a professional.

FAQ

Q: How much water does a leaky faucet waste?
A: According to the EPA, one drip per second can add up to over 3,000 gallons a year!

Q: Are all parts universal?
A: No—bring the old part to the store for a perfect match.

Q: Can I use boiling water on every clog?
A: Not if you have PVC pipes. The heat can soften and damage them. Use hot tap water instead.

Plumbing Help Near You

Whether you need routine sink repair, are dealing with stubborn kitchen clogs, or want a pro to check your whole plumbing system, JJL Plumbing is here. Our team handles emergencies and maintenance for homes and businesses alike.

If you’re looking for reliable plumbing company service, including in Sioux Falls, find more about our plumbing specialists in Sioux Falls.

Call JJL Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  855-552-2611 .