Basic plumbing skills are important to have, especially when preparing for SHTF scenarios. After all, a leaky pipe can mean the difference between having clean running water and digging a hole outside where you can do your business. Here are several appliances in your house that you need to learn how to fix and why. (h/t to ThePrepperJournal.com)
Leaky faucets
If you still have to pay for your water bill after SHTF, leaky faucets can cost you a lot of money. Furthermore, the water that a dripping faucet wastes is still very valuable, and it needs to be addressed immediately. Figure out what kind of faucet you have at home - ball, cartridge, ceramic disc or compression - and look up how to fix their respective leaks. Consider learning how to do this soon, because one leaky faucet could cost you upwards of 2,000 gallons of water per year.
Running toilets
Running toilets can rack up your water bill just as much as leaky faucets, which is why it's important to fix them quickly. There are two possible points you need to fix: the valve and the seal. Fixing the valve will be quick, all you have to do is replace the flap to stop water from leaking. If the seal is the problem, you need to remove the two bolts holding the pieces together and then replace it. This can prove to be more difficult if the bolts have rusted in place. (Related: Toilet etiquette when SHTF: Why it matters.)
Water heaters
Providing warm water for your bathing can immensely improve your quality of life. However, getting new pieces could be problematic especially if society has already collapsed by the time your water heater breaks down. A lot of a water heater's problems can be fixed at least temporarily by flushing the water heater to remove the buildup of any sediment and other minerals in the tank. If you have the time, consider practicing on your own water heater if you're confident that you won't accidentally break anything. Being prepared is important, but don't destroy your appliances in the process.
Plugged drains
Plugged drains have the added detriment of possibly causing health hazards due to the sewage not being flushed out of your home. The clogs can be hair, food waste or even roots growing through your sewage line. Figure out if the problem is localized or is happening everywhere. Small clogs can be cleared with a vinegar and baking soda mix and other natural drain-cleaning solutions. If this doesn't work, you may have to snake the drain or disassemble it and manually clear out the blockage.
Banging pipes
This is important especially if you want to keep noise at a minimum. Banging pipes are usually caused by pipes that aren't fastened tightly enough. This means that changes in water pressure, such as when you take a shower or flush a toilet, make them bang against one another. This wears out your pipes even faster, eventually causing leaks. Thankfully, this isn't too difficult to fix, as all you'll need is to secure the pipes to prevent them from moving. You can also install a water hammer arrestor, which is designed to absorb the shock of water flow, thus preventing noise and damage.
The best way for you to start learning these skills is to practice right now. Once you get a leaky faucet or a running toilet, fix it yourself. If you're not sure how, ask for help. Ask a friend or relative with experience or look up instructions in a book or online. Learning plumbing will not only save you money, but it can be a valuable skill that you can barter for goods and services if SHTF.
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