When it comes to plumbing, the last thing you want is for your house to start leaking or causing other problems.
That’s why it’s important to know how to spot potential issues and then have them fixed by a professional before they get out of hand. Here are 15 common plumbing problems and ways to deal with them before they become disasters:
| Common Plumbing Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Leaky Faucets | Replace faulty washer or O-ring inside the faucet handle |
| Clogged Drains | Use drain guards, avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink |
| Running Toilets | Adjust or replace the flapper valve |
| Low Water Pressure | Check pressure regulator valve, clean aerators |
| Water Heater Issues | Check pilot light (for gas heaters), reset thermostat |
| Frozen Pipes | Thaw pipes using gentle heat source, insulate pipes |
| Dripping Showerheads | Replace worn-out washers or showerhead |
| Burst Pipes | Shut off water supply, call emergency plumber |
| Toilet Bowl Leaks | Check wax seal, tighten connections |
| Sewer Line Backup | Call professional plumber for thorough inspection |
| Faulty Sump Pump | Test pump operation, clean pump or replace if necessary |
| Kitchen Sink Sprayer Issues | Clean or replace aerator, check hose connection |
| Water Pressure Fluctuations | Inspect pressure regulator, check for leaks |
| Slow Draining Bathtub or Shower | Clear debris from drain, use drain cleaner |
| Faulty Garbage Disposal | Reset disposal, check for jam or clogs |
Slow-Draining Sinks
Check for a clog. Sometimes, the problem is simply that the drain is blocked. If you’ve tried plunging and still can’t get it to clear, then you may have some debris caught in your pipes or a tree root growing into them.
Use a plunger. A simple sink plunger should do the trick if you’re dealing with an easily-fixable blockage (like hair). Just plunge away until water starts flowing freely again—and be sure to clean up after yourself!
Use a drain opener or snake tool if necessary. If your sink isn’t draining properly, these are two other options worth trying before calling in a plumber’s helper or snake tool to do all of the work for you!
Don’t let common plumbing issues ruin your day. Check out our comprehensive guide on the most common plumbing issues and how to fix them for step-by-step solutions.
Dripping Taps
You’ve probably experienced this one before: You’re washing your hands in the bathroom, or even just coming to a sudden stop after running the tap for an extended period of time.
You turn off the water and all seems well, until about five minutes later when you’re drying your hands and realize that you’re still getting drips from the tap.
The problem here is often due to worn washers, the rubber gaskets that make sure no leaks escape under pressure or broken ones altogether.
If this is happening regularly, it’s best to replace them with new washers so that no more water escapes down pipes or anywhere else!
Common Causes of Dripping Taps
| Brand | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Delta | Worn-out rubber O-ring or cartridge |
| Moen | Damaged or deteriorated valve seat |
| Kohler | Corroded or faulty ceramic disc cartridge |
| American Standard | Loose or worn-out packing nut or stem seal |
| Grohe | Malfunctioning internal ceramic cartridge or seal |
| Pfister | Loose or damaged washer or cartridge |
| Hansgrohe | Faulty or deteriorated rubber seals or gaskets |
| Glacier Bay | Corroded or worn-out valve stem |
| TOTO | Defective or worn-out inlet or outlet seals |
| Brizo | Broken or cracked internal valve mechanism |
This table showcases common causes of dripping taps, taking into consideration various popular brands.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be caused by a number of different things. If the pressure at the source is low, or if there is a leak in your plumbing system, then it will cause lower water flow throughout your home.
In order to fix this issue you need to inspect all of these components so you know where the problem lies:
Pressure gauge – This gauge measures how much pressure is being put out by your municipal water supply and shows how much flow rate will be available at any given time. A reading below 25 PSI means that there’s something wrong with your plumbing system (or possibly just an old unit). The good news? You can buy an inexpensive replacement online for about $10!
Pressure regulator – The regulator lowers the amount of water flowing through hot or cold lines so that they don’t burst from too much pressure. If yours isn’t working properly, check to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with or damaged by corrosion over time; otherwise replace it with something new (around $25).
Water pressure at source – Check this using test strips designed specifically for indoor use; if its level has dropped significantly since last year’s readings then contact an expert immediately because those levels should not change unless there are leaks present somewhere within the house!
When it comes to plumbing issues, there are many surprising fixes you can do yourself at home. Discover 10 surprising plumbing fixes that can save you time and money while keeping your plumbing system in top shape.
Clogged Toilet
If you have a clogged toilet, don’t panic. The problem is actually pretty simple to fix, and can be avoided with proper maintenance.
To unclog your toilet:
Use the plunger in the tank and hold it there for several minutes. This will clear out most of the water from the tank and bowl, allowing you to see what’s causing the blockage.
If this doesn’t work or if you still have trouble removing all of it, try pouring some baking soda down into the drain as well as some vinegar (both of these substances neutralize each other). Then flush again with some hot water from the faucet or sink; that should do it!
Common Causes of Clogged Toilets
| Brand | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Delta | Excessive toilet paper or foreign objects in the bowl |
| Moen | Flushing non-flushable items or excessive paper usage |
| Kohler | Large waste or foreign objects blocking the trapway |
| American Standard | Flushing feminine hygiene products or excessive waste |
| Grohe | Excessive paper or wipes, or foreign objects in the bowl |
| Pfister | Flushing items that are not toilet paper or waste |
| Hansgrohe | Excessive paper usage or foreign objects in the drain |
| Glacier Bay | Flushing non-biodegradable items or excessive waste |
| TOTO | Excessive paper usage, flushing non-flushable items |
| Brizo | Foreign objects or excessive waste blocking the trapway |
This table outlines common causes of clogged toilets, considering various popular brands.
Clogged Bathroom Sink
If your bathroom sink is clogged and nothing seems to work, there are a few more things you can try before calling in a professional.
Use A Plunger – If you’ve tried everything else, it’s time to bring out the big guns: a plunger. There are different types of plungers (or “potato mashers,” as some call them), but they all work the same way: put the rubber cup over your drain and press down on it with force.
This should create enough suction around the blockage that water will start draining through again. Once this happens, keep pushing until the sink is clear but remember to never do this without water or other liquids in there! It could cause serious damage if you move something critical like an important pipe or fixture!
Use A Snake – If using a plunger doesn’t work (or if even moving your hand makes you feel weird about touching “down there”), then it may be time for one last-ditch effort: using a snake tool as opposed to just plunging straight into whatever exists at the bottom of your drain line without any warning whatsoever .
With some finesse, though and maybe even some elbow grease you’ll eventually find what needs removing from within all those pipes underfoot… provided said item has already been dislodged by previous efforts such as pouring hot water down them first).
Being budget-conscious doesn’t mean you can’t handle plumbing fixes on your own. Learn about the top 10 DIY plumbing fixes that are affordable and effective, allowing you to tackle common plumbing issues without breaking the bank.
Clogged Kitchen Sink
The first thing to do is to try the old plunger trick. If the sink is draining slowly, it’s likely that a clog has formed somewhere in the pipe leading from your dishwasher or garbage disposal.
Simply place a generous amount of liquid hand soap into the sink and then plunge vigorously as if you were trying to unclog a toilet (this may cause some splashing). If you’re lucky, this will dislodge whatever’s blocking your drain and allow water or suds to flow freely again.
If plunging doesn’t work, then it’s time for drastic measures: snake in hand! The auger pictured above has been designed specifically for use on drains; however there are other tools available on Amazon that look similar but lack rubber grips on their handles these should be avoided because they’re less efficient at removing obstructions from pipes.
To use either type of tool (or even if you’re not sure what kind), simply feed one end down into your drain until you feel resistance then twist and pull until whatever was clogging up things comes out!
Clogged drains are a common plumbing problem, but they can be resolved with simple tips and techniques. Get valuable insights into fixing clogged drains with our expert advice, ensuring smooth water flow and preventing further complications.
Clogged Shower Drain
If you’re dealing with a clogged drain, there are several possible solutions. The first step is to remove any hair, debris and other matter that might be blocking the drain.
You can use a plunger or snake (a long flexible metal tool with a handle) for this purpose; some people also find success using water pressure washers or chemical drain cleaners if those methods fail.
If none of those options work for you, there may be another option: rerouting your plumbing so that it avoids the problem area altogether. If this seems like an ideal solution to you but isn’t feasible due to financial or technical reasons (or simply because it would be difficult), consider contacting a professional plumber instead!
Sewer Line Issues
If you have a problem with your sewer line, it could be caused by a number of things. The most common issue is an obstruction in the pipe, which can be anything from tree roots to dirt or grease buildup.
Another possibility is that there’s a leak somewhere along the line and water is coming out of it. Whatever the problem, if you don’t know what’s causing it and how to fix it yourself (or if you’re not sure whether or not you should attempt DIY repairs), here are some steps to take:
First, determine if there’s actually anything wrong with your plumbing system at all; this is especially important when dealing with older homes where pipes aren’t always in great shape.
For example, if there are no leaks or other signs of damage anywhere else in your house but one particular bathroom sink does not drain properly after using it for several minutes every morning before work (and no matter how much elbow grease goes into scrubbing off soap scum at night), then there may be nothing wrong with that specific fixture it could just be clogged due to buildup around its drain opening courtesy of all those hard-to-clean spots on old sinks made out of porcelain-enameled steel like yours!
To avoid common plumbing mistakes and ensure the longevity of your plumbing system, it’s crucial to be aware of potential pitfalls. Explore our guide on the 15 most common plumbing mistakes and learn how to avoid them, saving yourself from costly repairs and inconveniences.
Running Toilets
If your toilet is running, it’s likely due to a clog somewhere in the system. To fix this problem, remove the lid from your tank and remove any debris that may be stuck in there.
Make sure everything is clean and dry before putting everything back together again and turning on the water supply. This should solve your problem!
If you’re still having problems with your toilet after trying these steps, it might be time for professional help. A plumber can diagnose what exactly is causing the leaky faucet and repair it accordingly.
Common Causes of Running Toilets
| Brand | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Delta | Faulty flapper valve or chain length |
| Moen | Damaged or worn-out flapper or flush valve |
| Kohler | Misaligned or deteriorated flush valve seal |
| American Standard | Faulty or corroded fill valve or flapper |
| Grohe | Improper float adjustment or damaged flush valve |
| Pfister | Malfunctioning or worn-out fill valve |
| Hansgrohe | Improper water level adjustment or defective flush valve seal |
| Glacier Bay | Faulty or worn-out fill valve or flapper |
| TOTO | Defective or misaligned flapper or fill valve |
| Brizo | Malfunctioning flush valve or faulty flapper |
This table presents common causes of running toilets, taking into account various popular brands.
Seals and Gaskets Wearing Down and Leaking
Seals and gaskets are one of the first things to go when your plumbing system is old. It’s important not to neglect these parts, because they can make all the difference in how efficiently your pipes work.
If you’re not comfortable doing any kind of DIY job around the house, it’s best to call a professional plumber in this case but if you’re up for the task, there are ways that you can save money by replacing them yourself. A lot depends on how difficult it is to access those particular seals or gaskets: some may require more time and effort than others do.
The best thing to do is have a look at what needs replacing first; then decide whether or not it seems worth tackling yourself (or whether finding professional help would be better).
Noisy Pipes
If you hear a loud bang or clunk from your pipes, it’s probably not as serious as it sounds. The sound could simply be the result of water pressure moving through the pipes, or it might signify something bigger a leaky pipe, for example.
Check your plumbing for leaks:
- Check under sinks and toilets to see if there are any drips coming down from the pipes. If there are any leaks, you’ll want to repair them before they become more serious problems in your home.
- Check around faucets and showerheads to make sure no water is escaping from them while they’re turned on or off. You may need to tighten some connections if you find something loose or cracked in these areas that could lead to leaks down the road (or immediately!).
Common Causes of Noisy Pipes
| Brand | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Delta | Water hammer or loose mounting brackets |
| Moen | Air in the pipes or loose pipe connections |
| Kohler | Water pressure fluctuations or improper valve sizing |
| American Standard | Corroded or loose pipe hangers |
| Grohe | Loose or faulty pressure regulator valve |
| Pfister | Sediment buildup or water flow restriction |
| Hansgrohe | Improperly secured pipes or water velocity |
| Glacier Bay | Water temperature fluctuations or expansion joints |
| TOTO | Vibrations from water flow or valve malfunctions |
| Brizo | Pipe expansion and contraction or plumbing layout |
This table highlights common causes of noisy pipes, considering various popular brands.
Water Heater Issues
When it comes to plumbing troubles, water heater issues tend to be the most expensive and potentially dangerous.
Leaking from a cracked tank or rusting on the bottom can cause your whole house to flood with no warning—and that’s just one of many possible scenarios.
Fortunately, there are a few key ways you can avoid these problems in the first place:
Go through your regular maintenance schedule like clockwork. Your water heater should be checked every six months (or sooner if you notice any problems).
That includes testing for leaks, cleaning out sediment build-up and checking that all parts are in working order.
If you don’t know where these areas are located or what they look like, ask someone who does! Reducing corrosion is critical when it comes to preventing expensive repairs down the line; plus it’ll extend the life of your appliance by years!
Leaky Faucet
What you’ll need:
- Pliers or wrenches
- Household wrench
- Screwdriver (Phillips head) or hex key set if your faucet has a removable cartridge that you can access from the top of it and not through the bottom of your sink. If not, skip this step.
- Replacement washer(s) and O-ring(s). Make sure to get one size smaller than what came with your faucet, as they tend to wear out over time and may not be as tight as when new.
| Brand | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Delta | Worn-out rubber O-ring or cartridge |
| Moen | Damaged or deteriorated valve seat |
| Kohler | Corroded or faulty ceramic disc cartridge |
| American Standard | Loose or worn-out packing nut or stem seal |
| Grohe | Malfunctioning internal ceramic cartridge or seal |
| Pfister | Loose or damaged washer or cartridge |
| Hansgrohe | Faulty or deteriorated rubber seals or gaskets |
| Glacier Bay | Corroded or worn-out valve stem |
| TOTO | Defective or worn-out inlet or outlet seals |
| Brizo | Broken or cracked internal valve mechanism |
Frozen Pipes
If you have a frozen pipe, there are several ways to thaw it. You can use a hair dryer, or wrap a towel around the pipe and pour hot water over it. If your pipes are still freezing up despite these steps, call your landlord or hire a professional plumber to take care of the problem.
It’s important that you shut off the water when working on frozen pipes so that no damage is done by running water through them during thawing attempts.
Once you’ve turned off the water supply, wrap something like an old t-shirt around one end of each pipe and try warming it up with your hands or heating pad (if available).
Backflow Issues
Backflow prevention is important.
The main thing you need to know about backflow prevention is that it is illegal and dangerous to use a non-backflow-protected faucet or hose bibb in any situation where potentially contaminated water could flow into the drinking water supply. This includes:
Watering your plants with your garden hose on a hot day when it’s dusty outside—your sprinkler system might kick up dust and dirt into the air, which can settle into the soil of your plant beds. The chance is greater if you’re watering on a windy day.
That dirt can then contaminate nearby groundwater sources or even ponds, lakes, rivers and streams that feed local wells or reservoirs used for human consumption.
In this case, using a backflow protection device would be required by law!* You’ll want to invest in one before moving forward with this project!
Be Sure To Call Your Plumber To Fix Severe Problems.
Call a professional if your plumbing problems are severe. If you have a burst pipe or water leak, or even if you’re dealing with some kind of major problem, calling your local plumber is always recommended.
Plumbers can help with many other issues as well, including toilet repair and drain cleaning services. Some problems are not serious, but can be fixed by a plumber (like replacing an old shower head).
Other problems are more severe and should be handled by an experienced professional (like fixing an issue with the main water supply).
| Plumbing Issue | When to Call a Plumber |
|---|---|
| Leaky Pipes | If the leak is significant or inaccessible |
| Sewer Line Blockage | When multiple drains are affected or sewage is backing up |
| Burst Water Heater | Immediately to prevent further damage and ensure safe replacement |
| Gas Line Leak | Immediately, evacuate the area and contact the gas company |
| Persistent Clogs | If home remedies and plunging fail to clear the blockage |
| Water Pressure Problems | If low or inconsistent water pressure persists |
| Main Water Line Leak | When a significant amount of water is being wasted |
| Frozen Pipes | To prevent bursting and safely thaw the pipes |
| Backflow Prevention Failure | When there is a risk of contaminated water entering the system |
| Boiler Malfunction | If there is no heat or hot water in the home |
| Septic Tank Issues | When there are signs of septic system failure or backups |
This table highlights common plumbing issues and indicates when it is advisable to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you’ve learned some valuable information from this article and have been able to find the right solution for your plumbing issue.
If not, don’t worry! There are many other articles on our site that can help you out as well. If none of those work either then it might be time to call in a professional plumber who will be able to come out and fix whatever problem you may have.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources for further reading on common plumbing problems and their solutions:
Common Plumbing Problems: How to Avoid Them: This blog post provides valuable insights and tips on how to prevent common plumbing issues, helping you maintain a smoothly functioning plumbing system.
Common Plumbing Problems: How to Fix Them: Discover practical solutions and step-by-step guides for resolving common plumbing problems with this informative blog post, ensuring you can handle minor plumbing issues effectively.
Plumbing Problems: A Guide: Architectural Digest offers a comprehensive guide to plumbing problems, discussing common issues and providing expert advice on troubleshooting and repairs.
FAQs
What are some common plumbing problems homeowners face?
Common plumbing problems homeowners often encounter include leaky faucets, clogged drains, running toilets, low water pressure, and water heater issues.
How can I fix a leaky faucet?
To fix a leaky faucet, start by turning off the water supply. Then, replace the faulty washer or O-ring inside the faucet handle. If necessary, consult a plumber for more complex faucet repairs.
What can I do to prevent clogged drains?
To prevent clogged drains, avoid pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink, use drain guards to catch hair in bathroom drains, and refrain from flushing items like wipes or feminine hygiene products down the toilet.
How do I increase water pressure in my home?
To increase water pressure, check the pressure regulator valve, clean or replace clogged aerators or showerheads, and ensure there are no leaks or obstructions in the plumbing system. If the issue persists, consult a professional plumber.
What should I do if my water heater is not providing hot water?
If your water heater is not providing hot water, check the pilot light (for gas heaters), reset the thermostat, or inspect the heating elements (for electric heaters). If the problem persists, it’s recommended to contact a professional plumber for further assistance.
Hello, everyone! My name is Hellen James and I’m the founder of Unified Fix. I’ve been a home improvement enthusiast for years, so when we started this blog, I knew that it was important to me that we shared our knowledge with you.