10 DIY Plumbing Tips Every Little Rock Homeowner Should Know

Simple Ways to Prevent Problems Before They Start—From the Experts at Bert Black

When a faucet starts leaking or your sink backs up, your first instinct might be to call a plumber. But not every plumbing problem needs professional help. For homeowners in Little Rock, Arkansas, knowing a few safe, simple DIY plumbing tips can save time, money, and stress—especially during seasonal transitions like summer to fall.

At Bert Black – AC Heating Plumbing Electric, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Little Rock and Central Arkansas with trusted whole-home service. Here are 10 DIY plumbing hacks that are smart, practical, and safe—plus signs of when to call in a professional.

1. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

Before you do anything plumbing-related, know how to shut off your home’s water. This is critical in case a leak turns into a flood. Find your shut-off valve (usually near the street or basement), test it, and make sure your whole household knows where it is.

2. Be Careful with Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals get a lot of use, especially during back-to-school and holiday meal prep. But they’re not built to handle everything. Keep out:

• Fibrous veggies (celery, onion skins)

• Coffee grounds

• Grease or oil

• Bones

• Pasta or rice

These can clog the system or dull the blades. Scrape those items into the trash instead.

3. Clear a Clogged Sink Without Chemicals

Got a slow or backed-up sink in your Little Rock kitchen or bathroom? Skip the harsh chemical drain cleaners and try this:

• Remove visible gunk with gloves or a drain cleaning tool

• Pour ½ cup of baking soda, then 1 cup of vinegar down the drain

• Let it fizz for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water

Still stuck? Give us a call—our licensed plumbers can handle deeper clogs fast.

4. Get Rid of Garbage Disposal Odors

If your sink smells funky, grind up a handful of ice and a slice of lemon or orange. Add a few drops of dish soap and rinse with hot water. This helps clean the blades and freshen things up.

5. Fix a Running Toilet (Or Find a Silent Leak)

To test for leaks:

• Put a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank

• Wait 30 minutes

• If the water in bowl turns a color, you’ve got a leak

Replacing a flapper or float valve is a quick DIY. If you’re unsure, our plumbing pros are here to help.

6. Increase Weak Shower Pressure

Mineral buildup from Central Arkansas’ hard water can block your showerhead. Try this:

• Remove the showerhead

• Soak it in white vinegar overnight

• Scrub and rinse before reinstalling

Still low? The issue may be with the pipes, not the fixture.

7. Unclog a Toilet—No Plunger Required

If you’re in a bind:

• Turn off the water supply

• Pour in hot (not boiling) water with a generous squirt of dish soap

• Let it sit 10–15 minutes

  
  

  This often loosens soft clogs without needing a plunger.

8. Stop Leaky Pipes with Plumber’s Tape

Small drip under the sink? You can temporarily seal it:

• Shut off the water

• Unscrew the connection

• Wrap plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) around the threads

• Reassemble and tighten gently

Leaks still happening? Our team can inspect and repair lines the same day.

9. Don’t Overlook Your Water Heater

If your showers are lukewarm or the unit is older than 10 years, check for sediment buildup or corrosion. You can flush the tank yourself, but be cautious—hot water is dangerous. Or just give us a call for a seasonal tune-up.

10. Call a Pro When It’s Beyond DIY

Your safety matters. Don’t try to fix:

• Gas line issues

• Sewer backups

• Water damage behind walls

• Water heater replacements

• Plumbing that involves electrical components

Our Little Rock-based plumbing team is trained to handle all of that—and more.

Get More with Bert Black – Little Rock’s Trusted Home Services Team

At Bert Black, we offer whole-home solutions: HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and generator services—so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors. Whether you need a small fix or a full system upgrade, we’re here for you across Little Rock, Hot Springs, White Hall, and nearby towns.

Want a seasonal plumbing inspection?

Schedule your service today and enjoy peace of mind with one call to Bert Black.