The 7 Most Common Plumbing Problems

Part of being a homeowner is dealing with the usual plumbing problems that may strike your home at any moment. While some of these troubles may not be completely avoidable, knowing what to expect allows you to respond more appropriately by knowing what type of plumbing services to book.

To give you a better guide, here’s a rundown of the most common plumbing headaches you may encounter.

Leaky Faucets

A leaky faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can quickly become a bigger problem if left unattended for a long time. The most common causes of a leaky faucet are worn-out washers, O-rings, or cartridges. Although it may seem insignificant at first, that constant drip is wasting water, which drives up your water bill. Replacing the faulty parts is usually all it takes to fix the issue.

However, if the leak persists, it may be a sign of a deeper problem within the faucet’s internal components, in which case it’s a good idea to call in a plumber to investigate further.

Clogged Drains

A clogged drain is one of any home’s most common plumbing issues. Whether it’s hair, grease, soap scum, or food debris, these substances can build up in your pipes and lead to slow draining, still water, or, worse, a sewer backup.

If you notice that one drain is acting up, it may not be a huge issue, but when multiple drains in your home are slow to drain, it could indicate a bigger problem deeper in the plumbing system, possibly in the main sewer line. You can try using DIY cleaning remedies like a plunger or a drain snake to clear the blockage, but if the issue persists, it’s best to have a professional plumber perform expert pipe inspection and clean-up.

Running Toilets

Did you know that a running toilet can accumulate up to 200 gallons of water in a single day? That’s like draining five bathtubs full of fresh water into waste. 

Most of the time, the faulty flapper or fill valve in your toilet tank is to blame. Both of these prevent the toilet tank from properly sealing or refilling. Replacing the worn-out parts can usually resolve the issue.

However, quick repairs do not always solve the problem. At times, your old toilet may need a complete replacement to completely eliminate the leak.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common complaint and can stem from a variety of causes. Mineral buildup inside your pipes, particularly in hard water areas, can reduce the flow of water through faucets and showerheads. Leaks or corroded pipes can also cause a drop in water pressure.

If you’re noticing weak water flow, especially in the shower or kitchen sink, start by checking and cleaning your aerators or showerheads to remove any mineral deposits. If the problem stays on, it’s already an indication of a larger issue, such as a leak or old, corroded pipes, which require professional assessment and repair.

Water Heater Problems

A faulty water heater can easily throw a wrench into your day, especially if you rely on it for hot water during the colder months. Common culprits to this include sediment buildup in the water tank, a broken thermostat, or a faulty heating element.

These problems can cause your water to be lukewarm or not heat up at all. If your water heater is making strange noises or you’re running out of hot water more quickly than usual, it might be time to flush the tank or replace the faulty components. But, beware of doing DIY repairs on your water heater, as any problem with it isn’t always repairable with personal fixes. Your best response is still calling a water heater specialist for dependable, expert solutions.

Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is one of the most serious plumbing issues you can face often resulting in significant water damage to your home. Pipes typically burst due to freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or aging and corroded materials. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, or if you find wet spots on your walls or ceilings, a burst pipe may be to blame. Immediately turning off your home’s water supply should always be your first response to minimize further damage. Calling a plumber right away is crucial to repair the pipe and prevent further issues.

Sewer Line Problems

Sewer line issues are some of the most disruptive and unpleasant plumbing problems you can encounter. Problems like tree root intrusion, grease buildup, and aging pipes can lead to blockages, leaks, or even a complete sewer line collapse. Common signs of a compromised sewer line include slow drainage, gurgling noises from your toilet or drains, foul odors, or wet patches in your yard.

These symptoms are a clear indication that something is wrong with your sewer system, and addressing the issue quickly is the only way to avoid a full sewer backup—a serious concern that poses extensive damage and health hazards. Besides timely repairs, it’s also ideal to not miss out on your regular sewer line maintenance, like routine inspections and clean-ups.

Maintain a Smooth Plumbing System With Doug The Plumber’s Premium Plumbing Services

Are you catching any of these plumbing troubles at home? Stop dealing with them alone; call for expert assistance from your local plumber who has the experience and expertise to plug any plumbing issue before they spiral out of control.

For all plumbing problems, Doug the Plumber is here to assist you. Whether it’s emergency plumbing repair, routine maintenance, installation, or replacement, our seasoned plumbers are ready to jump into action. We offer top-rated services for affordable and honest pricing.

Call us today, and land the best offer for your plumbing needs!

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