5 Common Plumbing Problems And How To Address Them

By Author: Tom D'Agostino
Total Articles: 19
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Having a plumbing issue can range from frustrating to outright disastrous. We count on our appliances and indoor plumbing to make our lives easier; thus, when something breaks it can disrupt our day and cause costly damage to our homes. While no one wants to think about a plumbing problem, odds are at some point, you will find yourself with a pesky or significant plumbing malfunction. Determining whether a simple DIY fix will suffice, or a professional plumber needs to be called will be a crucial part of ensuring your issue doesn't cause more significant damage, so you can resume your normal activities as soon as possible. Read on to learn about the most common plumbing problems and how to handle them when they inevitably arise.
1.) Dripping Facets
Leaky faucets are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners encounter. The constant sound of water dripping can be annoying and is most certainly wasteful. For those living in areas prone to droughts, simply ignoring the problem is not an option when every drop counts. In fact, a leaky faucet adds up to thousands of gallons of water wasted over the course of ...
... a year, leading to significantly higher water bills over time.
A dripping faucet is often a direct result of a worn-out washer, O-ring, or cartridge that begins to fail due to normal use. Thankfully, replacing these is a simple task that many homeowners can easily manage at home. While it is typically fine to tackle this as a DIY fix, if you feel unconfident about your repair skills or if you simply don't have the time to deal with one more problem, a professional plumber can quickly fix this pesky problem and prevent unnecessary water waste.
2.) Toilets That Don't Stop Running
Toilets that don't stop running can be both annoying and wasteful. Like the ever-dripping facet, the ever-running toilet can also have a significant impact on your water bill, making it important that this issue isn't overlooked for long.
Generally, a continuously running toilet is caused by a faulty flapper valve, an issue with the chain, or the float mechanism being improperly adjusted. To address this issue, you can start by checking the flapper valve for wear or damage and replacing it if necessary. Make sure the chain is not tangled or too tight, as this could prevent the flapper from sealing properly. Additionally, adjusting the float height can help ensure that the tank fills to the correct level without overflowing into the bowl.
If you've tried these fixes and the problem persists or if you would rather avoid working in your toilet's tank, it may be time to call a professional plumbing service who can diagnose any underlying issues that might not be easily visible for a complete repair.
3.) Clogged Drains
Clogged or slow drains are another common plumbing problem. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely blocked shower, clogs can lead to foul odors and water damage if not addressed promptly. Common causes of clogged drains include hair, soap scum, food particles, and grease buildup that slowly grows worse and closes your sink’s drainage system until the problem cannot be ignored any longer.
To address slow draining or clogged drains yourself, you may find that a plunger or a plumbing snake (to dislodge the blockage) is most effective. In the case of kitchen sinks, it is often helpful to pour boiling water down the drain to help dissolve potential grease build-up that may be the culprit behind the water backing up. Another DIY method that may prove helpful in clearing minor clogs is a chemical drain cleaner or a more natural mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
After attempting to remove a clog yourself, if you find these methods do not resolve the issue, or if you find that drain clogs are a frequent reoccurrence, it is advisable to consult with an experienced plumber. They can provide a thorough inspection of your plumbing system, remove stubborn clogs, and address any underlying issues, such as tree root intrusion or pipe damage that may be contributing to ongoing problems.
4.) A Drop in Water Pressure
Experiencing low water pressure can make simple tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating. Thus, should you suddenly notice a dip in pressure it will be important to investigate the source of the problem further. Some of the most common culprits include mineral buildup in faucets and showerheads, overloading the system, leaks in the plumbing system, or issues with the municipal water supply.
To tackle weak water pressure, start by checking for any visible leaks in your pipes or fixtures. If you notice any damp spots or water pooling around fittings, first try tightening the fitting to see if the issue can be resolved. Should you notice damp spots in areas where pipes are enclosed inside the walls, immediately turn off your water supply and contact a professional plumber to avoid significant damage. If the problem seems to be confined to one facet or shower, try cleaning the aerator or showerhead by soaking it in vinegar to remove mineral deposits that may be restricting water flow. Additionally, take note as to whether the problem is consistent or only when multiple appliances are running at the same time, as this may simply be a cause of an overloaded water system. Ultimately, if you are unable to identify the cause or resolve the issue, it’s advisable to contact a professional plumbing company in Arvada who can assess the plumbing system for more serious problems, such as pipe corrosion or issues with the municipal supply.
5.) Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes can lead to significant water waste and potential damage to your home if not addressed quickly. The causes of leaks can vary widely, ranging from corrosion and wear over time to high water pressure or joint issues. Identifying leaky pipes early on can save you from water damage, pest infestations, high utility bills, and more expensive repairs down the line.
To locate a leak, start by checking your water meter. Turn off all water fixtures in your home and monitor the meter for any movement. If it changes, that likely indicates a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Inspect visible pipes for signs of moisture, corrosion, or water pooling. Pay special attention to areas under sinks, around toilets, on walls, and in basements or crawl spaces where pipes may be hidden.
If you identify a leak, the first step is to turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. Depending on the location and severity of the leak, some minor leaks can be repaired with plumbing tape or a pipe clamp as a temporary fix. However, whether it is a minor or significant leak, located in an apparent or difficult-to-reach area, it is ALWAYS best to call a professional plumber who can provide a permanent solution and prevent more severe damage to your home.
In conclusion, discovering a plumbing problem in your home is inconvenient and potentially very damaging. Despite this, knowing what to do when the inevitable leak, clog, or never-ending running toilet occurs can help you prevent frustration and extensive damage from occurring in your home. Whether you are up for the task of a DIY repair or need the skilled hands of a professional plumber, being proactive about plumbing issues can save you time and money in the long run!