12 Common Plumbing Problems Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Plumbing systems are essential to every home, yet they’re prone to issues that can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Below are 12 of the most common plumbing problems, along with solutions to help you handle them effectively.

1. Dripping Faucets

A dripping faucet is one of the most frequent plumbing issues, wasting both water and money. You can usually fix a dripping faucet by replacing a worn-out washer or cartridge.

Did you know? A single dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year, which is enough to fill 50 bathtubs! Beyond the waste, the constant dripping noise can be a source of irritation, and if ignored, the problem could worsen over time.

2. Clogged Drains

Whether it’s a clogged shower drain, kitchen sink, or bathtub, clogs often result from a buildup of hair, grease, or soap residue. For persistent clogged drain issues, a professional drain cleaning service may be necessary.

3. Slow Draining Sinks

A slow drain in your sink can signal a partial clog. Chemical drain cleaners can be effective in this case. Be mindful that chemical cleaners can be harmful to your pipes over time, so only use them when necessary. 

Here you have some links where you can order it:

https://www.homedepot.com/b/Cleaning-Cleaning-Products-Drain-Cleaners/N-5yc1vZbqlj

https://www.lowes.com/pl/drain-septic-cleaners/drain-cleaners/4294598963

https://www.amazon.com/drain-cleaner/s?k=drain+cleaner

Over-the-counter drain cleaners may offer a temporary fix, but calling a professional is the best way to ensure the issue doesn’t worsen.

4. Clogged Toilets

A toilet clogged with paper or waste is common. If your toilet clogged plunger not working, a drain snake can often clear the blockage. Learning how to fix a clogged toilet is essential for every homeowner.

5. Running Toilets

A toilet that keeps running is usually caused by a worn flapper or fill valve. If your toilet randomly runs, replacing these parts is an easy DIY fix.

6. Low Water Pressure

Experiencing low water pressure in the house can be frustrating. It’s often caused by mineral buildup, leaky pipes, or blockages in your plumbing system. A plumber can help restore consistent water flow. If you’re unsure whether your water pressure is truly low, measuring it can provide a definitive answer. The good news is you can do it yourself and not have to look for “plumbers near me”. If you want to buy a test gauge, then you can easily do so on this website.

7. Leaky Pipes

A leaky pipe can lead to water damage and high utility bills. Fixing a leaking pipe doesn’t always require a call to a professional. With tools like plumber’s tape, self-fusing silicone tape, and epoxy putty, many homeowners can handle plumbing leak repairs on their own. If left unchecked, leaks can cause significant structural damage, so plumbing leak repair should always be prioritized.

8. Expensive Water Bill

Have you noticed a spike in your water bill? Hidden plumbing problems like leaky pipes, dripping faucets, or constantly running toilets could be wasting thousands of gallons of water:

• A single dripping faucet wastes up to 3,000 gallons per year, which can add $20 to $50 annually to your bill.
• A toilet that keeps running can waste 200 gallons per day, costing up to $70 per month in wasted water.
• Even small pipe leaks can add hundreds of dollars to your bill over time.

To avoid excessive water bills, regularly inspect your home for leaks and address any plumbing problems promptly.

9. Faulty Water Heaters

Water heater problems are a frequent complaint for homeowners. These include:

• Gas Water Heater Problems: Ignition failure or thermostat issues.
• Tankless Hot Water Heater Problem-Solving: Low water pressure or mineral buildup.
• Tank Corrosion: Corrosion can shorten the life of traditional tank-style water heaters, making tank corrosion prevention vital.
• What Happens If the TP Valve on Water Heater Fails: A failed temperature-pressure (TP) valve can result in dangerous pressure buildup.
• Water Heater Installation Costs: If repair isn’t an option, knowing the water heater installation cost for a new unit—whether tankless or traditional—is important.

10. Sewer Backups

Blockages in sewer lines can cause wastewater to back up into your home. Tree roots in sewer lines are a common and potentially costly issue for homeowners. Sewer lines often become targets due to the moisture and nutrient-rich environment inside the pipes.

Once you’ve identified roots in your sewer line, several methods can help remove them. Each has its pros and cons, so consider the situation and severity of the blockage.

Root killers such as copper sulfate root killer and other specially formulated chemicals can help dissolve tree roots in sewer lines.

Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent this, but severe blockages may require an emergency plumber to fix the issue.

11. Clogged Bathtub or Shower Drains

A clogged shower drain can be caused by hair, soap, or debris. 

If your bathroom smells like sewage you should be dealing with a clogged shower drain, but with the right approach, you can easily fix the issue yourself.  

Prevent clogs by using drain covers and scheduling regular cleanings for heavily used drains.

12. Slow Draining Toilets

A slow draining toilet often signals a blockage in the pipes or insufficient water pressure. If your water drain is slow, try using a plunger or snake before calling a professional.

Understanding these common plumbing problems will help you take proactive steps to prevent costly repairs. Whether it’s a dripping faucet, a toilet clogged, or water heater problems, addressing these issues early can save time and money in the long run. For major problems like sewer blockages or tank corrosion, don’t hesitate to call in a professional plumber to ensure the job is done right.

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