Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

Plumbing issues are aggravating at home, and if left unfixed, will cost. It is a drippy faucet, clogged drain, or low water pressure, but having a clue as to what’s happening and how to fix it will be money- and time-saving. Although there are some issues that can be fixed with a do-it-yourself solution, others need to be handled by a plumber so the issue doesn’t get out of control. Here are some common plumbing problems and their solutions, including the importance of drain cleaning for maintaining a healthy plumbing system.

Clogged Drains

Problem:

One of the most common plumbing issues, clogged drains happen to kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and showers through the buildup of hair, soap scum, grease, or food bits.

Solution:

• Use a plunger to produce suction and clear out the obstruction.

• Try a drain snake (also referred to as a plumber’s auger) to cut or shatter the clog.

• Use baking soda and vinegar mixed together to dissolve debris. Then, pour hot water down the drain.

Have a professional drain cleaning in Marana, AZ, if the clog remains, as it could be a sign of some type of underlying obstruction in the pipes.

Leaky Faucets

Issue:

A dripping faucet is also wasteful and puts extra money in your utility bill. The probable offender is a loose O-ring or washer in the faucet.

Solution:

• Shut off the water supply before repair.

• Disconnect the handle and remove the packing nut to reveal the washer and O-ring.

• Replace worn-out parts and reverse assembly on the faucet.

If the drip continues, a plumber will be sent out to inspect other issues at the location.

Running Toilet

A leaky toilet, most often due to an inefficient toilet, is usually by a stuck flapper valve, an off-position float level, or a broken fill tube.

Solution:

• Check the flapper valve: Change it if worn or not closing adequately.

• Fix the float: Allow it to descend if water height is set too high in order to prevent spilling.

• Check the fill tube: Put it in its appropriate position and do not allow constant supply of water.

If these all fail, have a plumber come and diagnose.

Low Water Pressure

Problem:

Low water pressure makes household chores difficult. Low water pressure is caused by mineral buildup in pipes, an open shut-off valve, or even hidden leaks.

Solution

Check faucets: Check all faucets to determine if the issue is one or house-wide.

Clean the aerator: Disassemble and soak in vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup.

Check the master shut-off valve: Have it wide open.

If this does not solve the problem, perhaps pipe corrosion or a horrible leak is present that will have to be fixed by a plumber.

Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are a bad plumbing issue that may cause flooding and serious water damage. They typically occur because of cold weather, high water pressure, or corroded pipes that should be replaced.

Solution:

• Shut off the main water supply immediately.

• Drain the system by turning on all the faucets to drain the contained water.

• Hold the pipe in position temporarily using a rubber patch or tape as an immediate emergency solution.

• Call a professional plumber to fix or replace it instantly.

Water Heater Issues

Issue:

Insufficient hot water, strange sounds, or leaky water heaters can disrupt your work. The potential causes might be sediment buildup, a faulty thermostat, or a faulty heating element.

Solution:

• Drain the tank and clear sediment buildup at least once annually.

• Verify thermostat settings are correct.

• If water does not heat, replace the heating element.

• If the water heater is leaking, a plumber will need to replace it.

Sewer Line Backup

Sewer line backup is an emergency plumbing issue, typically caused by tree roots, grease clogs, or burst pipes. Symptoms include frequent drain clogs, sewer smell, and gurgling sounds from drains.

Solution:

• Avoid the use of water until the issue is fixed.

• Call a professional plumber right away because the issue requires a professional tool to properly clean the drain.

• Schedule regular sewer line inspections to prevent future clogs.

Leaking Showerhead

Issue:

A leaky showerhead wastes water and is annoying. It is most often caused by a worn washer or mineral buildup in the nozzle.

Solution:

• Soak the showerhead in vinegar for a whole night to loosen mineral buildup.

• Replace the rubber washer inside the showerhead if it is cracked.

If this fails to fix the problem, ask the plumber to repair it further.

Sump Pump Failure

A defective sump pump will cause flooding of the basement, particularly after heavy downpour. Power failure, clogging of the discharge pipe, or faulty switch are the most common culprits.

Solution:

• Test the sump pump from time to time by filling the pit with water to see if it turns on.

• Inspect for blockage in the discharge pipe.

• Install a backup power battery system to run on a power outage.

In case the pump fails, get a plumber to replace or repair it.

Noisy Pipes

Intermittent, ear-splitting hammer noises through pipes known as “water hammer,” which happen when suddenly water flow is shut off, generating shock waves through pipes.

Solution:

• Install water hammer arrestors to remove the shock.

• Tighten loose pipes to prevent movement.

• Dampen down water pressure to an acceptable pressure.

Final thoughts

Plumbing problems cannot be prevented, but with proper information, you will know how to fix minor problems on your own. Regular drain cleaning and maintenance prevent clogs, leaks, and other major plumbing problems. For major plumbing problems such as burst pipes, sewer backup, or low water pressure that simply refuse to go away, it would be preferable to leave it to a plumber in Marana, AZ, for the long-term fix. Timely maintenance will put your plumbing in working condition, saving time, money, and hassle in the long run.