Plumbing problems are an unavoidable part of owning a house. Some problems are often small and easy to fix, like a clogged toilet. However, there are times when you will need to call a professional, like a leaky pipe, which can be a bit more challenging.
No matter what kind of plumbing problem you’re facing, it’s important to know the reason behind it and how to solve it quickly and efficiently.
Here are 9 most common plumbing problems and how to solve them:
Contents
1. Dripping Faucets
One of the most common plumbing problems is a dripping faucet. This can be caused by a number of things, including a worn-out washer or valve seat. To fix a dripping faucet, you’ll need to replace the washer or valve seat. This is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself.
2. Clogged Toilets
A clogged toilet is another common plumbing problem. This can be caused by anything from Too much toilet paper to a child’s toy being flushed down the toilet. To unclog a toilet, you’ll need to put the plunger over the hole at the bottom of the bowl and push and pull until the clog is dislodged.
3. Leaky Pipes
A leaky pipe is one of the most frustrating plumbing problems to deal with. Not only is it annoying, but it can also cause water damage to your home.
There are several reasons that can cause pipe leaks:
- Cracked seals or cracked pipes
- stubborn clogs
- improper pipe laying
- pipe corrosion
- pipe joint deterioration
- excessive water pressure
To fix a leaky pipe, you’ll need to find the source of the leak and replace the damaged section of the pipe. This is usually a more difficult repair that should be done by a professional.
4. Slow or Clogged Drains
If your drains are slow or clogged, it’s usually because there’s a build-up of hair, soap scum, or food. If there is only one slow or clogged drain, you can try to clear it yourself with a plunger or a plumber’s snake. If you have multiple drains that are slow or clogged, it’s best to call a professional.
5. Low Water Pressure
If you’re noticing that your water pressure is low, there are a few things that could be causing the problem. It could be something as simple as a clogged shower head or faucet aerator. Or, it could be a more serious issue like a leak in the main water line. If you suspect that you have a leak, it’s important to call a professional right away.
6. Running Toilets
A running toilet is another common problem that can be quite annoying. This happens when the flapper valve doesn’t seal properly, issues with the refill tube, incorrectly sized flapper chains, or corroded toilet handles, that allow water to continuously run into the bowl.
To fix a running toilet, you’ll need to adjust the chain or replace the flapper valve. This is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself.
7. Sump Pump Failure
If you have a basement, you probably have a sump pump. This pump is responsible for pumping water out of the basement to prevent flooding. If the pump fails, it can cause serious damage to your home.
To avoid sump pump failure, you should test your pump regularly and make sure that it’s properly installed. You should also make sure that the pit is clear of any debris. If you do experience sump pump failure, you’ll need to call a professional to repair or replace the pump.
8. Worn Out Hose Bibb
If you have an outdoor faucet, you probably have a hose bibb. This is the valve that controls the water flow to the hose. Over time, the valve can become worn out and leaky.
Your hose will leak everywhere if this occurs. Hundreds of gallons can be silently lost each month due to a leaking hose bibb. Buy a heavy-duty frost-proof brand if you don’t want to have to replace them all the time throughout the duration of your home.
9. No Hot Water
Hot water is a must in most households. If you suddenly find yourself without hot water, it’s probably because your water heater is on the fritz. There are many reasons that your water heater could stop working:
- improper installation of the water heater
- Failures of the heating elements
- loose or damaged electrical connections
- corrosion or sediment accumulation in the systems
- the use of the incorrect system size or type to meet the needs of a residence
To fix this problem, you need to identify the cause of the problem and then repair or replace the water heater. This is a job that should be done by a professional.
Final Thought
These are some of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face. By knowing how to identify and fix these problems, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and frustration.
As a homeowner, it’s important to be prepared for plumbing problems. By knowing how to solve some of the most common problems, you can avoid costly repairs and water damage.
