Tips & Hints:

Toilets. If your toilet ball float is leaking and filling with water here is a useful trick I learnt to tide you over until you can get a new one. Take off the float (by unscrewing it), empty it, then screw it back on and wrap it in a plastic bag.

Frozen Pipes. I find that the best way to melt the ice in frozen pipes is to put hot water bottles over them. I hear that using a hair-dryer is good as well.

Blocked Sinks. If you are using a plunger cover up the overflow holes with a damp cloth. This helps build up the pressure.

Showers. If shower pressure is weak, pour a cup of vinegar into a plastic bag, place it over the showerhead, and soak. Use a twist tie to hold it in place overnight. In the morning, remove the bag and use an old toothbrush to gently scrub off the mineral deposits to help restore water flow.

Garbage Disposals. Run cold water down the drain for about 15 seconds before and after using the garbage disposal.

Split Pipes. If your water pipe has split, a temporary fix you can do whilst waiting for a qualified plumber is to wrap torn strips of fabric very tightly around the break. Keep a large saucepan or bucket underneath the join to catch any drips.

Kitchen Sinks. Avoid pouring fats or cooking oils down the drain because liquid fats solidify in the pipes and create clogs. Wipe congealed grease from pots.

Dishwashers. Run the dishwasher and washing machine at night or at off times to conserve water temperature and pressure for your guests.