Plumbing issues tend to pop up when you least expect them—right before guests arrive, during a holiday, or in the middle of the night. While some problems are minor annoyances, others can cause serious damage if not addressed quickly. Understanding the most common plumbing problems can help you spot warning signs early and know when it's time to take action.
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| Common Plumbing Problems |
1. Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. The usual culprits include:- A worn-out flapper (the rubber seal that controls water flow)
- A misaligned float or faulty fill valve
- A tangled chain between the flush handle and flapper
Most of these fixes are simple and inexpensive with the right replacement parts.
2. Low Water Pressure
Nothing ruins a shower faster than low water pressure. Common causes include:
- Mineral buildup in showerheads or faucets
- Hidden leaks in the plumbing system
- Corroded pipes in older homes
- Issues with the municipal water supply
Try cleaning fixtures or replacing old ones first. If that doesn’t work, a plumber can help identify deeper issues.
3. Clogged Drains
Hair, grease, food particles, and soap scum can all clog drains. Symptoms include:- Slow drainage
- Gurgling sounds
- Foul smells
Pro tip: Skip the chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes. Instead, use a plunger, drain snake, or natural cleaning solutions like baking soda and vinegar.
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| cleaning solutions |
4. Leaky Faucets
Drip. Drip. Drip. A leaky faucet is more than just annoying—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year and increase your water bill.
Leaks usually happen because of:- Worn washers or O-rings
- Corroded valve seats
- Loose parts
With a few basic tools, most faucet leaks can be fixed in under 30 minutes.
5. Burst or Leaking Pipes
This is one of the most serious plumbing emergencies. Causes include:
- Frozen water inside pipes
- Corrosion or wear in older plumbing
- Tree roots invading underground lines
- High water pressure
Leaks behind walls or under floors can go unnoticed until mold, mildew, or water damage appears. If you see water stains or hear dripping, call a plumber ASAP.
6. Water Heater Issues
Hot water suddenly gone cold? Common water heater problems include:
- Pilot light going out (for gas heaters)
- Faulty thermostat
- Sediment buildup in the tank
- Leaks or corrosion
If your water heater is over 10 years old, it might be time to consider a replacement.
7. Dripping Shower Heads
Much like a leaky faucet, a dripping shower head usually means:
- Worn washers
- Mineral deposits clogging the holes
- Loose or cracked pipe connections
Soaking the head in vinegar overnight can help dissolve mineral buildup.
Bonus: Garbage Disposal Troubles
A jammed or non-working garbage disposal is common in kitchens. Causes:
- Food particles stuck in the blades
- Overloading the disposal
- Running it without water
Resetting the unit or using an Allen wrench in the bottom slot often does the trick.
Final Thoughts
While many plumbing problems start small, they can quickly lead to bigger (and more expensive) issues. Regular inspections and a little DIY know-how can help you stay ahead. And when in doubt, call in a licensed professional before things get worse.
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