Plumbing issues are a common headache for homeowners and can range from minor leaks to major emergencies. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, clogged drain, or a burst pipe, plumbing problems can lead to water damage, high utility bills, and costly repairs if not fixed on time. Many homeowners attempt DIY plumbing repairs, but some problems require the expertise of a licensed plumber. Professional plumbers have the tools and experience to handle everything from routine plumbing maintenance to emergency plumbing services.
In this guide, we’ll discuss 12 of the most common plumbing problems, their causes, and how professional plumbing services fix them effectively.
A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing issues. Even a small drip can waste gallons of water over time, increasing your water bill. This problem is usually caused by a worn-out washer, O-ring, or corroded valve seat. High water pressure can also make a faucet leak.
Plumbers fix leaky faucets by inspecting the faucet’s internal parts. They replace damaged washers, O-rings, or valve seats. If high water pressure is the issue, they adjust it to prevent further leaks. If the faucet is old, they may recommend replacing it with a water-efficient model to help save money on your water bill.
A clogged drain is a common and frustrating issue. It happens when hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, or debris build up inside the pipes. Over time, these materials block the water flow, leading to slow drainage or complete blockages. If ignored, clogged drains can cause foul odors and even pipe damage.
Plumbers use special tools to fix clogged drains. They may use a plumbing snake to remove the blockage or hydro-jetting to blast away stubborn debris. If the clog is deep in the sewer line, they might use a sewer camera inspection to locate the problem and fix it. Regular drain cleaning services help prevent future clogs.
A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day. This issue is usually caused by a faulty flapper valve, a misaligned float, or a problem with the fill tube. Sometimes, mineral buildup can affect the flushing system, making the toilet run non-stop.
Plumbers fix running toilets by checking and replacing the flapper valve if it’s worn out. They also adjust the float to make sure the water stops at the right level. If the toilet is old and inefficient, they may suggest upgrading to a water-saving toilet to lower water bills.
Low water pressure makes it hard to shower, wash dishes, or do laundry. It can be caused by clogged aerators, corroded pipes, hidden leaks, or problems with the municipal water supply.
Plumbers first check the aerators on faucets and clean them if they are clogged with mineral deposits. If the pipes are corroded, they may need to be replaced to improve water flow. If there is a hidden water leak, plumbers use leak detection tools to find and repair it. Regular plumbing maintenance helps keep water pressure at normal levels.
Leaky pipes are a serious problem that can cause water damage, mold growth, and high water bills. They often happen due to high water pressure, corrosion, or poor pipe installation. Even a small leak can become a bigger issue if not fixed quickly.
Plumbers fix leaks by sealing small cracks with epoxy or replacing damaged pipe sections. For major leaks, they might recommend whole-house repiping to prevent future problems. They may also check water pressure levels and adjust them to reduce stress on pipes.
A water heater is essential for hot showers, washing dishes, and doing laundry. However, sediment buildup, a broken thermostat, or a faulty heating element can cause it to stop working properly. Signs of water heater problems include cold water, strange noises, or rusty-colored water.
Plumbers fix water heaters by flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup. If the thermostat or heating element is damaged, they replace it. If the heater is too old, they may recommend upgrading to a tankless water heater for better energy efficiency and endless hot water.
A sewer backup is one of the worst plumbing problems. It can cause bad smells, slow drains, and even wastewater flooding into your home. Common causes include tree roots growing into pipes, grease buildup, or a major clog in the sewer line.
Plumbers use sewer cameras to locate the blockage. Depending on the issue, they may use hydro-jetting to clear tree roots or a plumbing snake to remove the clog. In serious cases, they may need to replace damaged sewer pipes.
In cold climates, frozen pipes are a major concern. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst. This leads to serious water damage and expensive repairs.
Plumbers carefully thaw frozen pipes using heat. To prevent freezing in the future, they may install pipe insulation or suggest keeping a small trickle of water running during extreme cold.
A sump pump protects basements from flooding by removing excess water. If it stops working, water can build up and cause damage. Common causes of failure include a clogged intake screen, a stuck float switch, or a power outage.
Plumbers inspect the sump pump, clean the intake, and test the float switch. If the pump is too old or damaged, they replace it with a more reliable model.
A clogged garbage disposal can slow down your kitchen sink and create bad odors. The main culprits are bones, grease, fibrous foods like celery, and potato peels.
Plumbers fix disposals by resetting the unit, manually rotating the blades, or using a specialized tool to remove blockages. They also give advice on what foods to avoid putting down the disposal.
Backflow happens when dirty water flows back into clean water lines, which can contaminate drinking water. This is usually caused by sudden drops in water pressure.
Plumbers install backflow prevention devices to keep drinking water safe. Regular backflow testing ensures the system is working correctly.
A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency that can flood your home within minutes. Pipes often burst due to freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or aging materials. Plumbers fix burst pipes by shutting off the main water supply, replacing the damaged section, and insulating exposed pipes.
Plumbing issues can be frustrating, but fixing them early can save time and money. While small repairs can sometimes be done yourself, major plumbing problems should be handled by a professional plumber.
If you’re experiencing any of these common plumbing problems, don’t wait—call a licensed plumber today for expert plumbing repair and maintenance services. Taking action now can prevent costly damage and keep your home’s plumbing in great shape.
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