When was the last time you gave much thought to your plumbing? If you’re like most people, it’s something you only think about when it goes wrong. Plumbing issues can be stressful and inconvenient, but the good news is that most common problems can be easily fixed by professionals. The key is recognizing the issue early on. So, what are the most common plumbing problems homeowners face, and how do experts solve them? Let’s talk through the top five plumbing issues that might pop up in your home and how a professional can handle them with ease.
1. Leaky Faucets
A leaky faucet is one of the most common plumbing problems experts like Milestone Electric, A/C, & Plumbing receive calls about, but it’s also one of the easiest to overlook. That constant drip-drip-drip sound might seem harmless, but over time, it can waste a lot of water and lead to a higher water bill. Not to mention, it can be downright annoying!
So, why do faucets leak? In most cases, the cause is a worn-out washer or gasket inside the faucet. This causes water to seep through, even when the faucet is turned off. Professional plumbers can quickly fix this by replacing the worn-out parts. It’s a relatively simple job, but it’s best to let an expert handle it to ensure the job is done right and to avoid causing more damage.
2. Clogged Drains
We’ve all had a drain get clogged at some point. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, bathtub, or shower, it’s frustrating when water refuses to go down the drain. The problem often comes from a build-up of grease, soap, hair, or food particles over time. If left untreated, clogs can worsen, leading to foul smells or even a complete blockage.
You might try using a plunger or a chemical drain cleaner yourself, but sometimes these methods aren’t enough. This is where a plumber’s expertise comes in. They’ll have the right tools—like a drain snake or hydro-jetting system—to clear the blockage efficiently and safely. Unlike store-bought chemicals that can harm your pipes, a professional’s equipment is designed to clean your drains thoroughly without causing any damage.
3. Running Toilets
If your toilet keeps running after flushing, it’s not just wasting water—it’s also running up your water bill. A running toilet can be caused by a few things, like a faulty flapper, a broken fill valve, or an issue with the float. When these parts stop working properly, the toilet keeps trying to refill the tank, causing it to run continuously.
Plumbers can easily fix this problem by identifying which part is malfunctioning and replacing it. Sometimes, it’s as simple as adjusting the float to stop the tank from overfilling. If the issue is more serious, they’ll replace the parts that are broken, restoring your toilet to perfect working order and saving you from wasting water.
4. Low Water Pressure
Have you ever turned on your shower only to be greeted by a weak stream of water that takes forever to rinse off shampoo? Low water pressure is not only frustrating, but it can also be a sign of a larger issue. There are many reasons your water pressure could drop, such as a build-up of sediment in your pipes, a problem with the water main, or a leak somewhere in the system.
Plumbers will start by checking for visible leaks, inspecting the pipes for mineral deposits, and testing the water pressure at different points in your home. Once they’ve pinpointed the cause, they’ll recommend the best course of action, whether that’s flushing out your pipes, repairing the leak, or replacing faulty fixtures. They might even install a pressure booster if the problem is widespread, ensuring that every faucet and shower in your home gets the water pressure it needs.
5. Water Heater Problems
If you’ve ever stepped into a cold shower unexpectedly, you know how important your water heater is. Water heater problems are common, and they can leave you without hot water when you need it most. The most frequent issues include a pilot light that won’t stay lit, insufficient hot water, or strange noises coming from the tank.
In most cases, water heater problems are caused by a build-up of sediment, a malfunctioning thermostat, or an issue with the heating element. A professional plumber can diagnose the problem and either repair or replace the faulty parts. If your water heater is older and constantly requiring repairs, they might recommend replacing it with a newer, more efficient model to save you money on energy bills in the long run.
What to Expect When You Call a Professional
You’ve noticed a plumbing issue in your home, and now you’re ready to call a professional. But what happens next? Most plumbing services begin with a quick inspection. A professional plumber will come to your home, assess the problem, and then offer an estimate for the work needed to fix it. They’ll explain the problem clearly, ensuring you understand what’s wrong and what needs to be done to resolve it.
Once the plumber gets your approval, they’ll get to work, using specialized tools and techniques to fix the issue efficiently. Most common plumbing problems can be resolved in just a few hours, but for more complex issues, the plumber will keep you informed and updated. When the job is finished, they’ll test everything to ensure it’s working properly before they leave.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Plumbing Repairs
You might be tempted to try fixing your plumbing issues yourself. After all, there are plenty of tutorials online, right? While DIY repairs might seem like a good way to save money, they can often lead to bigger problems down the line. Plumbing systems are complicated, and even a small mistake can cause major issues—like leaks, water damage, or further clogs.
By hiring a professional plumber, you’re ensuring that the job is done right the first time. Not only do they have the training and experience to handle plumbing problems, but they also have the tools and knowledge to fix issues without causing additional damage. In the long run, hiring an expert can save you both time and money.
Ready to Tackle Your Plumbing Problems?
Now that you know the top plumbing issues and how professionals handle them, you’re in a much better position to deal with any plumbing problems that come your way. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a more complex issue like water heater trouble, a professional plumber can quickly and efficiently fix the problem, so you can get back to your day-to-day life.