10 Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

Introduction

The worst dread of a homeowner is plumbing issues. If you don’t take care of them right away, they can ruin your daily routine, seriously harm your property, and, worst of all, necessitate expensive repairs. However, you can save time and money by having a basic awareness of typical plumbing problems and how to fix them. In this post, we’ll look at ten of the most typical plumbing issues that homeowners have and offer workable fixes.

Obstructed drains

A clogged drain is one of the most frequent plumbing issues. Blockages can happen in sink, bathtub, or shower drains because of the accumulation of hair, soap scum, and debris. Start by using a plunger to shut off the drain and exert hard, consistent pressure to remove the obstruction. A drain snake or chemical drain cleaner may work well for obstinate obstructions. Consider adding drain screens to trap debris to avoid recurring obstructions.

Plumbing issue

A running toilet can result in higher water bills in addition to being annoying. The flapper valve inside the tank is usually the culprit of this issue because it doesn’t seal properly. Open the tank, adjust the flapper, or replace it if it’s broken, to fix the issue. The problem may occasionally be brought on by an improperly tight or loosely connected chain between the flush handle and the flapper.

Dripping faucets

Water and money are wasted by dripping faucets. Most frequently, a worn-out washer or O-ring is the root of a leaky faucet. This problem can be resolved by shutting off the faucet’s water supply, dismantling it, and replacing any broken parts. Before beginning the repair, make sure to switch off the water at the main shutoff valve or under the sink.

Water pressure is low

Daily chores like taking a shower and cleaning dishes can become difficult when there is low water pressure. It frequently results from mineral accumulation or silt in the showerhead’s or faucet’s aerator. To remove the deposits, remove the aerator or showerhead and soak it in vinegar. If this still doesn’t cure the problem, think about looking for leaks or calling a licensed plumber.

Issues with the water heater

Uncomfortable situations can arise in your house as a result of a broken water heater. The absence of hot water, a lack of hot water, or weird noises originating from the tank are common problems. Check for leaks in the tank, the pilot light, and the thermostat settings. If none of these work, you might need to replace your water heater or call a plumber.

Iced Pipes

Frozen pipes throughout the winter can cause leaks and serious water damage. Insulate exposed pipes to avoid this, and during really cold weather, let faucets drip. If a pipe does ice, gently defrost it using a hair dryer or heating tape. Never defrost pipes over an open flame since it can be risky.

Sewer line obstruction

Toilets may back up and drain slowly as a result of a sewer line obstruction. Grease, garbage, and tree roots are frequent offenders. You can try to remove the obstruction with a sewer snake or auger, but it’s frequently best left to a qualified plumber who can precisely analyze the problem and guarantee a thorough fix.

Water Spills

Anywhere in your plumbing system, water leaks can happen and might go undetected until they cause obvious damage. Check your house frequently for indications of water leaks, such as wet stains on the ceiling or walls. If you find a leak, stop the flow of water to that area and fix the broken pipe or fitting right away.

Inefficient Garbage Disposal

Foreign objects or a lot of food scraps can cause garbage disposals to block or cease functioning. Turn off the disposal unit’s power first. The impediment can then be removed by manually rotating the flywheel of the disposal using a hex wrench. Never put your hand down the garbage disposal; exercise caution. Call a specialist if the issue continues.

Corrosion of pipes

Corrosion in pipes over time can result in leaks and lowered water quality. Older homes with galvanized steel or iron pipes frequently experience corrosion. A long-term fix can be achieved by replacing rusted pipes with contemporary materials like copper or PEX. For an accurate examination and replacement, consult a plumber.

Conclusion

Although dealing with plumbing difficulties can be frustrating, many of them can be fixed without the help of a professional plumber with some basic knowledge and the appropriate tools. To avoid further harm, it’s crucial to know when a situation is beyond your level of DIY expertise and call in a licensed plumber. You can keep your home’s plumbing system in top condition by doing routine maintenance and remaining vigilant.