Plumbing problems can occur at any time and often disrupt your daily life. From minor inconveniences like leaky faucets to significant issues such as burst pipes, addressing plumbing problems promptly can save you from costly repairs.
Some plumbing issues are simple enough to handle on your own, but others require professional expertise. This blog will cover common plumbing issues, how to fix them, and when to call a plumber.
1. Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets are more than just an annoying drip. A leaking faucet can waste hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water per year, increasing your water bills and contributing to environmental waste.
Causes of Leaky Faucets
- Worn-out washers or cartridges: Over time, washers, O-rings, or cartridges within the faucet can wear out, causing water to leak.
- Corroded valve seat: Corrosion of the valve seat, which connects the faucet to the spout, can result in leakage.
- Loose parts: Components of the faucet, including screws and washers, can become loose or damaged, leading to leaks.
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
- Turn off the water supply: Before attempting repairs, make sure to turn off the faucet water supply.
- Disassemble the faucet: Depending on the type of faucet, you’ll need a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to take it apart. Identify the faulty part.
- Replace damaged components: If the washer, O-ring, or other parts are worn or damaged, replace them with new parts.
- Reassemble the faucet: Reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on.
If your faucet continues to leak after performing these steps, it may indicate a more significant problem, and you’ll need to contact a plumber for assistance.
2. Slow-Draining Sinks
Slow-draining sinks are often caused by blockages in the plumbing system. If your kitchen or bathroom sink is draining slower than usual, it could be due to a variety of issues.
Causes of Slow Draining Sinks
- Hair and soap buildup: In bathroom sinks, hair combined with soap residue often forms a clog.
- Grease and food waste: In the kitchen, cooking grease, food particles, and oils can accumulate in the drain, forming blockages.
- Mineral deposits: In areas with hard water, mineral buildup in the pipes can restrict water flow.
How to Fix a Slow-Draining Sink
- Boiling water: One simple method is pouring boiling water into the drain. This works particularly well for grease and soap clogs.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Pour one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar into the drain, then cover it. After 15 minutes, flush it with hot water.
- Drain cleaner: Commercial drain cleaners can be used, but be cautious as some products can damage pipes.
- Plunger: Using a sink plunger can help dislodge more solid clogs.
- Snake or auger: For stubborn clogs, using a plumbing snake or auger may be necessary.
If the sink is still draining slowly after these attempts, you may need to call a professional plumber, as the issue could be deeper in the pipes.
3. Clogged Toilets
Clogged toilets are one of the most frequent plumbing issues. While they’re usually easy to resolve, repeated clogs may indicate a larger problem with your plumbing system.
Signs of a Clogged Toilet
- Water backing up: After flushing, the water either rises in the bowl without draining or drains very slowly.
- Multiple clogs: If more than one toilet or drain is clogged, you may have a more severe issue, like a blocked sewer line.
- Foul odors: A strong smell may accompany a clog, particularly if there is sewage involved.
How to Unclog a Toilet
- Plunger: Use a plunger to create suction and force the clog out. Ensure there’s enough water in the toilet to cover the plunger's rubber section for maximum efficiency.
- Toilet auger: If a plunger doesn’t work, a toilet auger (also known as a drain snake) can be used to break up the clog and clear it out.
- Enzyme-based drain cleaners: These cleaners use natural enzymes to break down waste. They are often a safer alternative to harsh chemical drain cleaners.
If you frequently deal with clogged toilets, it may indicate a blockage deeper in your system or even problems with the plumbing vent. A professional plumber can help diagnose and fix recurring toilet clogs.
4. Running Toilet
A running toilet can waste significant amounts of water. This issue typically occurs when water continues to flow from the tank into the bowl, even after flushing.
Causes of a Running Toilet
- Faulty flapper valve: The most common cause is a damaged or misaligned flapper valve, which regulates water flow between the tank and bowl.
- Problems with the fill valve: The fill valve controls the water entering the toilet tank. If it's not working correctly, the tank may overfill.
- Float problems: If the float is set too high or is damaged, it may cause the toilet to keep running.
How to Stop a Running Toilet
- Replace the flapper valve: Remove the faulty flapper valve and replace it with a new one. Be sure to purchase the correct size for your toilet.
- Adjust the float: The float controls the water level in the tank. Adjust it to ensure the tank doesn't overfill.
- Replace the fill valve: If the fill valve is damaged or not functioning correctly, replace it with a new valve.
Running toilets can often be fixed with simple adjustments, but if the problem persists, it’s a good idea to consult a plumber to avoid wasting water and money.
5. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can turn simple tasks like washing dishes or taking a shower into frustrating experiences. Identifying the root cause of the problem is essential for restoring proper water flow.
Common Causes of Low Water Pressure
- Leaking pipes: Leaks in your plumbing system can cause a reduction in water pressure.
- Mineral buildup: Over time, minerals and sediment can accumulate in the pipes, reducing the flow of water.
- Water supply issues: Problems with your municipal water supply can result in lower water pressure in your home.
- Faulty pressure regulator: Homes with a pressure regulator may experience low water pressure if the device is malfunctioning.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure
- Check for leaks: Inspect your home for any visible leaks and call a plumber to fix any hidden leaks that may be affecting your water pressure.
- Clean faucet aerators: Remove and clean the aerators on your faucets to remove any debris or buildup.
- Install a water pressure booster: If low pressure is a persistent problem, consider installing a water pressure booster to enhance the flow.
If you cannot identify the cause of low water pressure, a professional plumber can evaluate your system and recommend a solution.
6. Water Heater Problems
A malfunctioning water heater can lead to a lack of hot water or uneven water temperatures. Whether you rely on a traditional tank water heater or a tankless system, water heater issues need prompt attention to avoid further damage.
Common Water Heater Issues
- No hot water: If your water heater stops providing hot water, the most likely causes are a faulty thermostat or heating element.
- Leaking tank: Water leaking from your water heater can be due to corrosion, a loose drain valve, or damage to the tank.
- Strange noises: Sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank can cause unusual noises, such as popping or banging sounds.
How to Troubleshoot Water Heater Problems
- Check the thermostat: Make sure the thermostat is set to an appropriate temperature (usually 120°F for most homes). If it’s malfunctioning, consider replacing it.
- Flush the tank: Flushing the tank annually can help remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
- Inspect for leaks: Check the tank and drain valve for signs of leaks. Tightening the drain valve may stop a minor leak.
Water heater repairs can be complicated and dangerous, especially with gas-powered systems. It's best to hire a professional plumber to handle water heater issues.
7. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can cause significant water damage to your home and property. It's one of the most severe plumbing emergencies, requiring immediate action.
Causes of Burst Pipes
- Freezing temperatures: Water expands when it freezes, and frozen pipes are the most common cause of pipe bursts in cold weather.
- Old or corroded pipes: Aging pipes can weaken over time and eventually burst.
- High water pressure: Excessively high water pressure can damage pipes and lead to a burst.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
- Shut off the main water supply: Immediately turn off the water at the main shut-off valve to prevent flooding.
- Open all faucets: Allow water to drain from the pipes by opening all faucets.
- Call a plumber: Burst pipes require professional repair, and delaying this can lead to more severe water damage.
Prevent burst pipes by insulating them during the winter and maintaining an appropriate water pressure level.
8. Sewer Line Blockages
A blocked sewer line can cause serious issues throughout your home, including multiple drain clogs, sewage backups, and foul odors. These blockages are usually caused by tree roots, collapsed pipes, or non-flushable items making their way into the line.
Signs of a Sewer Line Blockage
- Multiple clogs: If more than one drain is clogged in your home, it could indicate a main sewer line blockage.
- Sewage backups: Water or sewage backing up into sinks, toilets, or tubs is a clear sign of a sewer line issue.
- Unpleasant odors: The smell of sewage in your home or around your drains is another common symptom.
How to Handle Sewer Line Blockages
- Stop using water: Immediately stop using water in your home to prevent further backup.
- Call a professional plumber: Sewer line blockages require specialized tools and expertise. Contact a plumber to inspect and clean your sewer line.
Dealing with sewer line issues can be hazardous to your health and property, so it’s crucial to have them resolved as soon as possible by a licensed plumber.
Preventive Measures for Plumbing Issues
Preventive maintenance can help you avoid many common plumbing problems. Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of plumbing issues:
- Regular inspections: Have a plumber inspect your system annually to catch problems early.
- Install drain screens: Use screens over drains to prevent hair, soap scum, and debris from causing clogs.
- Avoid chemical drain cleaners: These can damage pipes over time. Opt for enzyme-based cleaners or manual methods like plunging.
- Insulate pipes in winter: Insulating your pipes can prevent freezing and bursting during cold weather.
Call the Professionals at Barlow Plumbing for Any Plumbing Issue
While some plumbing problems can potentially be tackled with DIY solutions, others require the expertise of a professional.
At Barlow Plumbing, we offer comprehensive plumbing services, from leak repairs to sewer line cleaning and water heater installation. Our team of licensed plumbers is ready to assist with all your plumbing needs, ensuring quality service and peace of mind.
Don’t let plumbing problems disrupt your home. Contact Barlow Plumbing today for fast, reliable, and professional plumbing services you can trust.