Plumbing problems are inevitable for homeowners, small business owners, and property managers. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a broken water heater, plumbing issues can cause inconvenience, waste water, and lead to costly damage if left unchecked. Knowing the most common plumbing problems and how to fix them can help you address these issues quickly and efficiently.
At Pristine Plumbing, we provide a range of plumbing services to homeowners, businesses, and property managers in the Treasure Valley area. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or expert advice, our professional team is here to help. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common plumbing problems, explain what causes them, and offer solutions to help you fix them.
1. Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet might seem like a small problem, but it can be more than just an annoying sound. Over time, a leaky faucet can waste a significant amount of water, increasing your utility bill and contributing to water waste.
Common Causes:
- Worn-out washers or seals
- Loose valve seat
- Corroded components
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Disassemble the faucet using a wrench and remove the worn-out parts.
- Replace the washers or seals with new ones.
- Reassemble the faucet and test for leaks.
If you’re not comfortable performing the repair yourself, call a professional plumber to ensure it’s fixed properly and efficiently.
2. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems. Whether it’s a bathroom sink, kitchen sink, or shower drain, slow drainage or complete blockages can disrupt your daily routine.
Common Causes:
- Hair and soap buildup in bathroom drains
- Food scraps, grease, and soap in kitchen drains
- Foreign objects lodged in the drain
How to Fix It:
- Plunge the drain with a plunger to try and dislodge the blockage.
- Use a drain snake to break up stubborn clogs.
- If the clog persists, use a natural solution like baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
If these methods don’t work, a professional plumber can use more advanced tools, such as hydro-jetting, to clear the pipes.
3. Running Toilets
A running toilet is not just annoying—it can also waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher water bills. If your toilet continues to run after flushing, it’s likely a sign of an internal issue.
Common Causes:
- Worn-out flapper valve
- Misaligned float
- Faulty fill valve
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Inspect the flapper valve and replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
- Adjust the float to ensure it’s at the correct height for proper water shutoff.
- If necessary, replace the fill valve for a more thorough fix.
Replacing a toilet’s internal components can be a simple fix, but if you’re unsure, it’s best to call a plumber.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can affect the performance of appliances like your shower, dishwasher, and washing machine. It can also make simple tasks, like filling a bathtub, take longer than usual.
Common Causes:
- Clogged pipes
- Leaky pipes
- Pressure regulator issues
How to Fix It:
- Inspect aerators and showerheads for buildup and clean them.
- Check for leaks in your plumbing system and repair any damaged pipes.
- If the issue is caused by a faulty pressure regulator, call a plumber to replace it.
A professional plumber can also conduct a full system check to determine the root cause and fix it efficiently.
5. Leaky Pipes
Leaking pipes can cause significant water damage and lead to mold and mildew growth. Whether the pipes are hidden behind walls or exposed in your basement, leaks should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage.
Common Causes:
- Corrosion due to age
- Freezing temperatures
- Loose pipe connections
How to Fix It:
- Shut off the water supply to the area where the leak is located.
- Locate the leak and assess whether the pipe needs to be replaced or repaired.
- For minor leaks, you can temporarily seal the leak with plumber’s tape or a pipe repair clamp until a professional plumber can properly fix it.
In most cases, especially with older pipes, it’s best to call a plumber for a permanent solution.
6. Sewer Line Problems
Sewer line issues can be among the most unpleasant plumbing problems, leading to sewage backups, foul odors, and unsanitary conditions. Common signs of sewer line problems include slow drainage, foul smells, and sewage backups.
Common Causes:
- Tree root intrusion
- Clogs from grease, debris, or foreign objects
- Corroded or broken pipes
How to Fix It:
- Use a plumbing snake to clear minor blockages from the sewer line.
- Hydro-jetting can help remove tough blockages, such as tree roots, from the pipes.
- In cases of significant damage, you may need pipe replacement to restore the sewer line.
Sewer line issues are complex, so it’s best to call a professional plumber to assess the damage and provide a long-term solution.
7. Water Heater Problems
Water heaters are essential for providing hot water for bathing, cleaning, and cooking. When your water heater isn’t working properly, it can disrupt your daily routine and cause major inconveniences.
Common Causes:
- Sediment buildup in the tank
- Broken heating element or thermostat
- Leaks or cracks in the tank
How to Fix It:
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
- Check the heating element or thermostat and replace any faulty parts.
- If the water heater is leaking or broken, it may need to be replaced.
For more complex issues, it’s best to call a plumber to inspect and repair or replace your water heater.
8. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is a serious plumbing emergency that can cause extensive water damage to your home. It’s crucial to address burst pipes immediately to prevent flooding and further damage.
Common Causes:
- Frozen pipes during winter
- Old, corroded pipes
- High water pressure
How to Fix It:
- Shut off the water supply immediately to stop the flow of water.
- If the burst pipe is exposed, use a pipe clamp or duct tape as a temporary fix.
- Call a plumber immediately to replace the broken section of pipe and ensure the plumbing system is working properly.
9. Gas Line Leaks
Gas line leaks are a serious safety hazard. If you smell gas in your home, it’s important to act immediately to avoid the risk of explosion or poisoning.
Common Causes:
- Cracked or damaged gas lines
- Loose connections
- Faulty appliances
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the gas supply at the main shutoff valve.
- Evacuate the area and call a professional plumber or gas fitter to fix the leak safely.
- Gas leaks require immediate professional intervention, so it’s not advisable to attempt repairs yourself.
10. Clogged Toilets
A clogged toilet is one of the most common plumbing issues in households. It can happen for various reasons, from flushing too much toilet paper to foreign objects becoming stuck in the drain.
Common Causes:
- Excessive toilet paper usage
- Flushing non-degradable items (wipes, feminine products)
- Blockages in the plumbing lines
How to Fix It:
- Use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. Make sure to create a tight seal around the drain opening.
- If plunging doesn’t work, use a toilet auger to break up the blockage deeper in the pipes.
If the clog persists, or you suspect it’s caused by a bigger issue, call a plumber to inspect the toilet and the surrounding plumbing system.
Conclusion
Plumbing issues can be a major inconvenience, but knowing how to address them quickly can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged drain, a leaking pipe, or a malfunctioning water heater, Pristine Plumbing is here to help. We offer comprehensive plumbing services for homeowners, businesses, and property managers in the Treasure Valley area.
Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to handle all your plumbing needs, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or get emergency plumbing assistance!