Diagnostic Guides

Signs:

• • Water drains slowly
• • Gurgling sounds from pipes
• • Bad odors from drain

Quick Check:

Pour boiling water down the drain. If it clears, debris buildup. If it backs up, deeper blockage.

DIY Steps:

1. 1. Remove visible debris
2. 2. Try a plunger (if not backed up into main line)
3. 3. Baking soda + vinegar (let sit 30 mins, then hot water)

Signs:

• • Weak shower or faucet flow
• • Takes longer to fill tub
• • Affects specific fixture or whole house

Quick Check:

Is it one faucet or everywhere? Check if neighbors have pressure (helps identify city line vs. your line).

DIY Steps:

1. 1. Clean aerator (small screen on faucet tip)
2. 2. Check for leaks under sink
3. 3. Open supply valve fully

Signs:

• • Constant water running/trickling
• • Fills periodically on its own
• • Increases water bill

Quick Check:

Lift toilet tank lid. Water should stop when tank is full. If not, fill valve stuck.

DIY Steps:

1. 1. Jiggle handle gently
2. 2. Check tank level (adjust if too high)
3. 3. Clean sediment from fill valve

Signs:

• • No heat coming from vents
• • Furnace making strange sounds
• • Pilot light won't stay on

Quick Check:

Check thermostat set to HEAT. Look for furnace light (should be blue/yellow). Listen for ignition clicks.

DIY Steps:

1. 1. Check circuit breaker isn't tripped
2. 2. Verify thermostat batteries OK
3. 3. Note any error codes on display

Signs:

• • Indoor temp stays high despite AC on
• • No cold air from vents
• • Compressor running but no cooling

Quick Check:

Thermostat set to COOL? Check outdoor compressor unit is running (should hum). Any ice buildup?

DIY Steps:

1. 1. Check air filter (change if clogged)
2. 2. Clear leaves/debris from outdoor unit
3. 3. Verify all vents open and unblocked

Signs:

• • Water pooling around tank base
• • Dripping from relief valve
• • Water on floor near heater

Quick Check:

Where's the leak? Bottom of tank = replacement needed. From relief valve = often pressure issue.

DIY Steps:

1. 1. Place towels to contain water
2. 2. Turn off water supply to heater
3. 3. Contact pro (replacement likely needed)