5 Plumbing Fixes Every Homeowner in Malé Should Know

Plumbing problems have a way of happening at the worst possible time. The good news? Many common issues are simple enough to fix yourself with basic tools and a little confidence. Here are five plumbing fixes every homeowner should know.

1. Fix a Dripping Tap

That constant drip isn't just annoying — it wastes litres of water every day and increases your bill.

What you need: Adjustable wrench, replacement washer (take the old one to the hardware store to match it)

1. Turn off the water supply under the sink
2. Remove the tap handle (usually a screw under a cap or at the back)
3. Unscrew the valve and pull out the old washer
4. Replace with the new washer
5. Reassemble in reverse order
6. Turn the water back on and check for leaks

Time: 15–20 minutes

2. Unclog a Slow Drain

Before reaching for chemical drain cleaners (which can damage pipes over time), try these methods:

Method 1 — Boiling water: Pour a full kettle of boiling water slowly down the drain. Repeat 2–3 times. This dissolves soap and grease buildup.

Method 2 — Baking soda + vinegar:

1. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain
2. Follow with half a cup of white vinegar
3. Cover the drain and wait 30 minutes
4. Flush with boiling water

Method 3 — Manual removal: Remove the drain cover and pull out the hair and gunk with needle-nose pliers or a zip-it tool. Gross, but effective.

3. Fix a Running Toilet

A toilet that keeps running wastes a shocking amount of water. The fix is usually simple.

• Lift the tank lid and look inside
• Check the flapper — the rubber disc at the bottom. If it's warped or doesn't seal, replace it (they're universal and cheap)
• Check the float — if the water level is too high, water overflows into the overflow tube. Adjust the float arm down
• Check the fill valve — if it hisses constantly, it may need replacing

4. Stop a Leaking Pipe Joint

If you spot a small leak at a pipe connection (not a burst pipe), you can often fix it temporarily:

• For threaded connections: Tighten slightly with a wrench. If still leaking, wrap the threads with PTFE tape (plumber's tape) and reconnect
• For a pinhole leak: Dry the area, apply epoxy putty as a temporary patch, and call a plumber for a proper fix

Important: If a pipe has burst or you see significant water flow, turn off the main water supply immediately and call for help.

5. Clear a Blocked Showerhead

If your shower pressure has dropped, mineral buildup is likely clogging the nozzles — common with Malé's water.

1. Unscrew the showerhead
2. Soak it in a bowl of white vinegar for 2–4 hours (overnight for heavy buildup)
3. Scrub the nozzles with an old toothbrush
4. Rinse and reattach

When to Call Easy Fix

These DIY fixes handle the basics, but for anything involving the main water line, hidden leaks inside walls, or problems you can't identify — don't risk making it worse. Easy Fix has experienced plumbers who can be at your door the same day.