When encountering problems with their plumbing, people sometimes attempt to fix them using DIY methods rather than call expert plumbers. But let’s face it; while DIY repairs may seem like a less expensive option, the reality is that in the long run, they often turn out to be more expensive, especially if you don’t have the expertise and tools many of these plumbing fixes require.

This post will highlight some of the most common plumbing problems facing homeowners. Because, as they say, knowing is half the battle—and knowing how to spot the tell-tale signs of various plumbing issues can help you in preventing them.

Common Plumbing Problems in Your Home

Preventing plumbing problems from damaging your home is the first step to maintaining your property. Many plumbing issues go undetected; however, in most cases, you can remedy this simply by learning to recognize the tell-tale signs of plumbing problems. Below are some of the common plumbing issues every homeowner should know about.

1. Dripping Faucets

One of the most common plumbing issues at home is dripping faucets. At some point, all homeowners and renters will experience a continually dripping faucet, which can be annoying and cost you money.

Besides the annoying sound, dripping faucets result in water wastage and an increased water bill. It’s astounding how quickly little drops of water can add up to a larger amount. For example, experts estimate that one faucet dripping at the rate of one drip per second accounts for 3,000 gallons of water annually, equivalent to 180 showers. Furthermore, studies show that fixing leaks helps save up to 10 percent on your water bill.

Dripping faucets are usually caused by a worn-out internal washer or O ring, which you can easily replace. Another cause of a dripping faucet may be corrosion or improper faucet installation.

2. Clogged Drains and Toilets

Another example of the most common plumbing problems is clogged drains and toilets. Clogged drains and toilets are characterized by water backing up as you shower or empty a sink. The most commonly used method to clear clogged drains and toilets is to use a plunger or a plumber’s pipe snake.

When attempting to unclog a drain pipe, you may be tempted to use a commercial drain cleaner. But by doing so, you run the risk of damaging your pipes and causing harm to the environment. Commercial drain cleaners may prove helpful in preventing hair, soap, toilet paper, and toothpaste from clogging your drains, but they may not be as effective against other blockages, like brush bristles or toothpaste caps.

You can fix a blocked drain using routine drain cleaning material and prevent further drain clogging by installing a drain guard. However, multiple clogged drains are a red flag indicating severe drainage blocks and a possible plumbing emergency. If you have multiple blocked drains, this is a situation best handled by expert plumbers.

3. Problematic Water Heaters

This plumbing issue is easy to spot because you get ice-cold water from your shower rather than pleasant warm water. If your water heater provides little to no hot water, you might be dealing with a plumbing crisis. Other plumbing problems that involve the water heater include:

• Sediment buildup
• Corrosion or rust
• Broken valves
• Dripping water
• Water discoloration
• Inexplicable noises
• Unpleasant smell from bacteria buildup

Some of these issues may result from a faulty thermostat, while others are due to water heater problems, like heating element failures and loose or broken electrical connections. Water heaters have a life expectancy of eight to 13 years, but irresponsible handling and usage can shorten the lifespan.

You can troubleshoot some plumbing issues, such as relighting the pilot or replacing the heating element on an electric heater. However, more complex and potentially dangerous water-heater problems, like corrosion, sediment buildup, and rust require professional help. It is also worth noting that you cannot repair water heaters; when broken, your only option is to replace them.

4. Low Water Pressure

Another of the most common plumbing problems is leaky faucets. Leaky faucets produce a continually annoying dripping sound and can cause weaker water pressure.

Low water pressure can occur suddenly or gradually develop over time. Low water pressure makes it difficult to do everyday chores, like rinsing, washing dishes, and showering, so fixing the utilities causing the low pressure should be a priority.

Low water pressure can result from any number of issues — the most common being water leakage from broken, corroded, or worn-out pipes.

However, low water pressure in a shower might be due to sediment and mineral deposits. At times, this plumbing issue is a symptom of more severe plumbing problems like:

• Pipe corrosion
• Sewer or drain clogs
• Hidden water leaks
• Cracked or blocked sewer lines

Pay attention to your water usage. Sometimes, low water pressure results from multiple faucets in use simultaneously. For every issue mentioned,call in an expert plumber to inspect, maintain, and repair your plumbing system.

5. Sewer System Backup

Nothing is as nasty as a sewer backup. It has a horrid smell accompanied by offensive waste material. There needs to be more than a DIY home plumbing repair to address this plumbing problem. If your drains and toilets are not working as they should, a sewer backup will likely happen soon, and you will have a real plumbing emergency.

Expert plumbers can save you from this unhygienic problem and expensive water damage repair. All you have to do is call them immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of minimizing collateral damage.

Key Takeaway

While plumbing problems may be commonplace, they don’t necessarily have to be a major burden. You can save time, money, and frustration by being aware of homeowners’ typical plumbing problems and taking appropriate actions to prevent them. Remember, if you’re ever unsure how to handle a plumbing problem, it’s always better to consult a professional plumber who will guarantee to fix the problem properly.

Absolute Electrical Heating and Air has all your plumbing needs covered!

Plumbing problems can be frustrating, inconvenient, and sometimes costly. From clogged drains to leaky pipes, most homeowners have experienced plumbing issues at some point. While some problems are easy to fix using DIY methods, others require the expertise of a professional plumber.

With licensed and reputable plumbers in Thornton, state-of-the-art equipment, and insurance, Absolute Electrical Heating and Air handles all minor and significant home-based plumbing issues. Contact us today if you need help with fixing a plumbing problem. Our team of friendly professionals is here to help you, and they can solve your plumbing problems quickly and inexpensively.