Plumbing problems can be a real headache for homeowners, ranging from minor inconveniences to major issues that require immediate attention. Some problems can be tackled with quick DIY fixes, while others need professional expertise to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Understanding these common issues empowers you to take appropriate action and maintain your home's plumbing system effectively.
1. Dripping Faucets
That constant drip-drip-drip isn't just annoying—it wastes significant water and increases your utility bills. Dripping faucets are typically caused by worn-out washers or O-rings that no longer create a proper seal.
DIY Solution: Turn off the water supply to the affected faucet, remove the handle, and replace the damaged washer or O-ring. These inexpensive parts are available at any hardware store. For persistent leaks or if you're uncomfortable with the repair, complete faucet replacement might be necessary.
2. Clogged Drains
Slow-draining or completely blocked sinks, showers, and tubs are among the most common plumbing complaints. Hair, soap scum, food particles, and debris gradually accumulate in pipes and create blockages.
DIY Solution: Start with a plunger to create suction and dislodge the blockage. For stubborn clogs, use a drain snake to physically break through the obstruction. Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can corrode pipes and cause more harm than good, especially in older plumbing systems.
When to call a pro: Recurring clogs in the same location indicate a deeper problem that requires professional assessment and potentially camera inspection of your pipes.
3. Running Toilet
A constantly running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water daily, dramatically increasing your water bill. The most common culprits are faulty flapper valves or problems with the fill tube.
DIY Solution: Open the tank and check the flapper valve. If it's not sealing properly against the flush valve seat, replace it—they're inexpensive and easy to install. Adjust or replace the fill valve if water continues running after the tank fills.
Pro tip: Add food coloring to the tank and wait 30 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, you have a leak that needs immediate attention.
4. Low Water Pressure
Weak water flow from faucets and showerheads can make simple tasks frustrating. Low pressure may result from mineral buildup in pipes, hidden leaks, or corrosion—especially common in older homes.
DIY Solution: If only one faucet has low pressure, the problem is likely a clogged aerator. Unscrew the aerator, clean out sediment, and reinstall. For showerheads, soak them in vinegar overnight to dissolve mineral deposits.
When to call a pro: Whole-home pressure issues indicate serious problems like pipe leaks, corroded plumbing, or municipal water supply issues that require professional diagnosis.
5. Leaky Pipes
Leaking pipes can cause extensive water damage to walls, floors, and foundations if left unaddressed. Causes include old pipes, corrosion, excessive water pressure, or physical damage.
Temporary Solution: Plumber's tape or pipe clamps can provide short-term leak control, but these are emergency measures only.
Professional Solution: Permanent fixes typically require replacing damaged pipe sections or joints. Our plumbers assess the extent of damage and recommend whether spot repairs or whole-pipe replacement is most cost-effective.
6. Clogged Toilet
Toilet clogs happen when non-flushable items like wet wipes, feminine products, or excessive toilet paper attempt to make their way through your plumbing. Most clogs occur in the toilet's trap.
DIY Solution: A good-quality plunger resolves most toilet clogs. For deeper blockages, a toilet auger (closet auger) can reach further into the drain to break up obstructions.
When to call a pro: Multiple clogged toilets throughout your home simultaneously suggest a main sewer line blockage—a serious issue requiring professional equipment like power augers or hydro-jetting.
7. Water Heater Issues
Inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, or no hot water at all indicate water heater problems. Common causes include malfunctioning thermostats, sediment buildup, or failed heating elements.
DIY Check: Verify the thermostat is set correctly (120°F is recommended). Drain and flush the tank annually to remove sediment that reduces efficiency and causes rumbling noises.
Professional Repair: Heating element replacement, thermostat issues, and tank leaks require professional expertise. Water heaters involve high-voltage electricity or gas connections that are dangerous for untrained homeowners to repair.
8. Garbage Disposal Problems
Disposals that won't turn on, make grinding noises, or emit foul odors are frustrating kitchen issues. Jammed blades from inappropriate items or foreign objects are common culprits.
DIY Solution: First, check that the disposal is plugged in and hasn't tripped its reset button (usually red, on the bottom of the unit). If it hums but won't spin, something is jamming the blades. Use an Allen wrench in the hex hole underneath to manually rotate the grinding mechanism and free the jam.
When to call a pro: Persistent electrical issues, severe jams, or units that have reached the end of their 10-15 year lifespan need professional replacement.
9. Leaky Showerhead
A dripping showerhead wastes water and creates annoying sounds. Worn washers or mineral deposit buildup typically cause these leaks.
DIY Solution: Remove the showerhead and clean mineral buildup with vinegar. Replace the washer inside. If leaking persists, the threads might be damaged, requiring a new showerhead or thread seal tape.
When to call a pro: Leaks originating from inside the wall (not just the showerhead connection) indicate pipe problems requiring professional access and repair.
10. Sump Pump Failure
For homes with basements, a failing sump pump can lead to devastating flooding. Common causes include power outages, clogged intake screens, or improper installation.
DIY Maintenance: Test your sump pump regularly by pouring water into the pit—it should activate automatically. Keep the discharge line clear and ensure the float moves freely.
Professional Service: Failed motors, check valve problems, or improper installation require expert diagnosis and replacement. Consider installing a battery backup system to protect against power outage failures.
Know When to Call a Professional
While DIY solutions work for many common plumbing issues, attempting complex repairs without proper expertise can lead to bigger problems and costlier repairs. When in doubt, calling a licensed plumber saves time, money, and stress in the long run.
Our experienced team handles everything from simple repairs to complete system replacements. We diagnose problems accurately, provide upfront pricing, and guarantee our workmanship. Don't let plumbing problems disrupt your life—contact us today for fast, reliable service.
