Bathroom Plumbing Made Simple: Fix Leaks, Upgrade Fans, and Avoid Messy Mistakes

Got a drip under the sink or a noisy fan that won’t quit? You’re not alone. Most homeowners run into a plumbing hiccup at some point, and the good news is many of these issues are easy to handle with the right know‑how. Below you’ll get straight‑to‑the‑point steps that save time, money, and the headache of waiting for a technician.

Stop That Leak Before It Gets Worse

First thing to do when you see water pooling is turn off the shut‑off valve beneath the sink. If the valve is stuck, shut off the main water supply for the house – it’s usually located near the water meter. Once the flow stops, dry the area with a towel and locate the source. Most leaks come from a cracked P‑trap, a loose compression fitting, or a worn‑out washer.

For a cracked P‑trap, unscrew it by hand (you may need a basin wrench), replace the old piece with a new plastic trap, and re‑tighten. If a fitting is loose, use an adjustable wrench to snug it – but don’t over‑tighten or you’ll strip the threads. When it’s a washer, simply turn the faucet handle off, pull the stem out, replace the rubber washer, and re‑assemble. Test the repair by turning the water back on and watching for drips.

Installing or Replacing a Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Good ventilation keeps mold and smells at bay, so a working fan is a must. Most bathroom fans are mounted in the ceiling or wall. Before you start, turn off the electricity at the breaker box – safety first.

Remove the old fan by unscrewing the housing and disconnecting the wiring. Note how the existing wiring is attached; you’ll need to replicate this with the new fan. Most fans come with a mounting bracket – attach it to the opening, feed the wires through the knock‑out, and connect them using wire nuts (black to black, white to white, green or bare to ground). Secure the fan housing, attach the grille, and restore power to test.

If you hit any surprises – like a missing junction box or an unexpected duct size – it might be time to call a certified electrician or plumber. Trying to force a mismatched fan can lead to noise, reduced airflow, or even fire hazards.

These two projects cover the most common bathroom plumbing pain points. Keep a small toolbox with adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, and plumber’s tape handy. With a bit of confidence and the right tools, you’ll fix leaks and improve ventilation without a pricey service call. And if a problem feels beyond your comfort zone, remember that a professional can save you from costly water damage down the line.