Plumbing issues are an inevitable part of homeownership. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a running toilet, these problems can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can lead to more severe water damage. The good news is that many plumbing issues can be fixed with basic tools and a little know-how. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most common plumbing problems and how to fix them.
1. Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet isn’t just an annoyance—it can waste a significant amount of water over time, increasing your utility bills. The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer or O-ring.
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink.
- Plug the drain to prevent losing small parts.
- Remove the handle using a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- Disassemble the faucet and locate the washer or O-ring.
- Replace the worn-out part with a new one of the same size.
- Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.
- Test for leaks and tighten any loose parts if necessary.
2. Clogged Drains
A slow or clogged drain is one of the most common plumbing issues. Hair, soap scum, food particles, and grease can build up in pipes, causing blockages.
How to Unclog a Drain:
- Use a plunger – Ensure there is enough water in the sink or tub to cover the plunger’s rubber cup. Create a tight seal and plunge vigorously.
- Try a drain snake – Insert the drain snake into the pipe and turn the handle to break up the clog.
- Pour a baking soda and vinegar mixture – Pour one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes before flushing with hot water.
- Use a chemical drain cleaner (as a last resort) – Be cautious, as these can damage pipes if overused.
3. Running Toilet
A running toilet can waste gallons of water every day. This issue is usually caused by a faulty flapper valve, which controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl.
How to Fix a Running Toilet:
- Turn off the water supply at the shut-off valve.
- Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper.
- Check the chain length – If it’s too long or too short, adjust it so the flapper seals properly.
- Replace the flapper if it’s worn out or not sealing properly.
- Inspect the float and fill valve – If the float is set too high, it may cause continuous water flow. Adjust it as needed.
- Turn the water back on and test to see if the issue is resolved.
4. Low Water Pressure
If you’ve noticed weak water flow from your faucets or shower, low water pressure might be the culprit. This issue can result from sediment buildup in pipes, a partially closed shut-off valve, or a faulty pressure regulator.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure:
- Check all faucets – If only one faucet is affected, the problem is likely in that fixture.
- Clean the aerator – Unscrew the faucet aerator and remove debris or mineral buildup.
- Inspect the water supply valve – Ensure it’s fully open.
- Flush the pipes – If sediment is blocking the pipes, try turning on multiple taps to flush the system.
- Call a plumber if the problem persists, as it may be a municipal water supply issue or a damaged pressure regulator.
5. Water Heater Issues
A lack of hot water is a major inconvenience. Common causes include a faulty thermostat, sediment buildup in the tank, or a malfunctioning heating element.
How to Fix Water Heater Problems:
- Check the thermostat – Make sure it’s set to the appropriate temperature (typically 120°F).
- Flush the tank – Over time, sediment builds up and reduces efficiency. Drain the tank to remove sediment.
- Inspect the heating elements – If the water isn’t getting hot, the heating elements may need to be replaced.
- Relight the pilot light (gas water heaters) – If the pilot light is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it.
- Call a professional if you suspect a more serious issue like a failing pressure relief valve or a leaking tank.
6. Burst Pipes
Burst pipes can cause significant water damage if not addressed quickly. Freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or corrosion can lead to pipe bursts.
How to Handle a Burst Pipe:
- Shut off the main water supply immediately.
- Drain the system by opening all faucets.
- Locate the burst section and assess the damage.
- Use a pipe repair clamp or epoxy putty as a temporary fix.
- Call a professional plumber for a permanent repair.
- Prevent future bursts by insulating pipes in cold areas and monitoring water pressure.
7. Sewer Line Backup
A sewer line backup is a serious plumbing issue that can lead to foul odors, slow drains, and wastewater backing up into your home. Tree roots, grease buildup, or blockages in the main sewer line can cause this problem.
How to Fix a Sewer Line Backup:
- Stop using water immediately to prevent further backup.
- Use a sewer snake or auger to clear minor clogs.
- Call a professional plumber – If the blockage is severe, professional tools like hydro-jetting may be required.
- Schedule regular maintenance – Have your sewer lines inspected and cleaned periodically to prevent backups.
When to Call a Professional
While many plumbing issues can be fixed with DIY methods, some problems require professional expertise. Consider calling a 24 hour plumber if:
- You have a major leak or burst pipe.
- Your drains are consistently backing up despite multiple attempts to clear them.
- Your water heater isn’t functioning correctly.
- You notice sewage odors or wet spots in your yard, indicating a sewer line issue.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing problems are a hassle, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, many common issues can be resolved without professional help. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning drains, inspecting pipes, and checking for leaks, can prevent bigger problems down the road. By tackling small plumbing issues early, you can save time, money, and frustration in the long run.
If a problem seems beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to call a licensed plumber to ensure your home’s plumbing system remains in top shape.
