Common Plumbing Issues

Do you have plumbing problems you just can’t fix? If so, we can help.

Whether you’re dealing with clogs, leaks, water backup, running toilets, dripping faucets, or any other common plumbing issues, you’ll find the answers here. In this guide, we explain the causes, solutions, and prevention tips for 13 of the most frequently occurring plumbing problems.

You’ll also learn whether your issue is a DIY matter or if you should call a plumber. So, don’t procrastinate, and don’t let your DIY plumbing attempts make the problem worse. Instead, read this guide detailing common plumbing issues and follow the instructions.

1. Toilet Clogged/Overflowing

Clogged toilets are extremely common and usually easy to fix. First, if it’s overflowing, turn the valve beneath the toilet to shut off the water. Next, if the clog’s caused by too many flushable materials at once (toilet paper, human waste, flushable wipes), simply use a toilet plunger or cheap, plastic drain snake.

If that doesn’t work, or if the clog is caused by something that isn’t meant to be flushed (including facial tissues), call a plumber. Otherwise, you could make the problem worse.

2. Toilet Running

A constantly running toilet is leaking water right down the drain, up to 200 gallons per day! You might be able to fix it yourself by lowering the water level or replacing the rubber flapper in the top tank. If that doesn’t work, call a plumber before your water bill is higher than your toilet repair bill.

3. Clogged Drains

Common sink, bathtub, and shower drain clogs can also be fixed with a plunger or drain snake, usually. You can often unscrew/detach the drain cover to make this easier. The clog is usually caused by a buildup of hair, soap, toothpaste, etc.

If you’re unable to unclog the drain the normal way, call a plumber. Home remedies/harsh chemicals could worsen your plumbing problems.

4. Dripping Faucets

Like a running toilet, leaky faucets are extremely wasteful. One wasted drip every 15 seconds can waste about 15 gallons per month!

Fortunately, the problem’s usually easy to fix. Replacing an internal washer/seal should do it. Still, you should let a professional handle this.

5. Pipes, Water Heater, or Gas Leaking

Despite what we just said, you may want to leave your faucets dripping during extremely cold winters. This prevents water in the pipes from freezing. Otherwise, the frozen water may expand and burst the pipes.

There are other, year-round causes of leaks, too, like age-worn seals. Whatever the cause, though, if you notice a leaky water pipe, water heater, etc., call for emergency plumbing services right away.

A small leak can still cause great damage to the building. And it could become a big leak at any moment.

If you smell a gas leak, get all living things out of the area and call 911 immediately.

6. Dishwasher/Washing Machine Hose Leaks

If the leak happens when you use your dishwasher/washing machine, it’s probably a leak in the drain hose. But it could be a worn-out seal in the door. Regardless, call a professional plumber to fix it.

7. Water Heater Malfunction

If the leakage/puddles are located in your garage, it’s probably coming from the water heater. Call it in.

8. No Hot Water

Aside from a flooded garage, you may notice your hot water is suddenly not hot. If so, have a plumber look at your water heater. You definitely don’t want to mess with this complex device on your own.

9. Broken Water Lines

Have you noticed any of these signs at your house?

• An unusual increase in your water bill
• Low water pressure
• Rusty, dirty, smelly water from faucets
• Puddles in your flooring or yard
• Sinkholes
• Running water sound when no water’s running

If so, you could have damaged plumbing or a damaged water main under your property. Call a plumber.

10. Water Backing Up

Water coming back up the drain is a big problem. It could be a very clogged drain in need of professional help. But, if it’s happening in all your drains, it’s probably a blocked sewer line, as described below.

11. Sewer Line Blockage

If the sewer line’s blocked (that is, your drainage can’t reach the sewer), water backup is the least of your worries. Soon enough, raw, human sewage/toxic sewer gas will flood into your home from every drain. Unless you call for emergency plumbing, that is.

12. Air In Pipes

Do you get sputtering water or loud banging noises when you use the faucet? You likely have air trapped in your pipes.

You can probably fix this yourself by systematically turning on all faucets and appliances attached to your plumbing. If that doesn’t work, call a plumber.

13. Sump Pump Failure

Houses that drain water through the basement have a sump pump to make sure this drainage is pumped safely away from your home. Signs of sump pump failure include:

• Increased noise/vibration during use
• Constant running
• Running less frequently
• Operating at irregular/random times
• Visible rust/corrosion

Basically, if there are any changes to the way your sump pump operates, call it in.

Get Help For These Common Plumbing Issues

If you need help with these common plumbing issues or any other plumbing problems, don’t procrastinate. Contact us here to get the help you need right away. For emergency plumbing needs, please contact us by phone.