In many cases, small fixes can go a long way when you’re selling your home – and one of the simplest things you can do yourself is to repair leaks in a bathroom or kitchen sink. Another simple repair: garbage disposal issues.
How to Fix ManyLeaks in Sinks
You don’t always need a plumber if your sink is leaking (but remember, if you’re not comfortable fixing something yourself, or if it’s out of your scope of abilities, it’s always best to bring in a professional).
If your sink is leaking, here’s what you do:
- Turn off the water valve, which is usually located below the sink.
- Put a bucket beneath the pipe.
- Unscrew the large white pieces, which are called compression nuts. Usually, you won’t need a wrench; in most cases, you can just use your hands.
- Remove the curved PVC pipe, which is known as the “P trap.”
- Rinse away debris.
- Screw the pipe back into place.
If the pipe continues to lead, you will need to replace it. In many cases, you can find a new P trap and a home improvement or hardware store.
How to Fix Garbage Disposal Problems
Many people turn on their garbage disposal units and only hear a faint hum – but that doesn’t necessarily mean the entire unit needs to be replaced. Before you dropped the cash on a new garbage disposal, try this:
- Unplug the garbage disposal manually or by flipping the circuit breaker.
- Press the reset button, which is usually located near the bottom of the disposal unit.
- Use an Allen wrench to jostle any debris free.
- Probe into the sink using a tool – never use your fingers – and search for clogs.
- Turn on the garbage disposal’s power, and run water through the system while it is running to rinse away any leftover debris.
Naturally, this doesn’t solve all garbage disposal issues, but it’s a good first step in determining whether you need to purchase an entirely new unit.
Are You Selling a Home in Lake City, Florida?
If you’re selling a home in Lake City, we’d love to help you do so quickly and at the right price.
Just call us at 386-243-0124 or get in touch with us online. We’ll be happy to give you a free comparative market analysis so you know exactly how much your house is worth.
