10 Common Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Dripping Faucets

A dripping faucet wastes water constantly. The sound may be small, but gallons of water can be lost every day. Most of the time, the problem comes from a worn washer or cartridge. Hard water can make the wear worse by building up mineral deposits. Replace washers and cartridges as soon as you notice irregular water flow. Unscrew and clean aerators once or twice a year to remove grit and buildup. These small fixes cost little and can extend the life of your faucet while avoiding larger plumbing repair later.

Clogged Drains

Kitchen sinks and shower drains clog from grease, hair, and soap residue. Once the buildup forms, it catches everything else that passes by. Many people pour chemical drain cleaners down pipes, but those products can damage the plumbing itself. Place strainers in sinks and tubs to catch debris before it travels down the drain. Flush drains monthly with hot water to break down grease. Never pour cooking oil down the sink, and scrape plates into the trash instead. If clogs keep returning, call plumbers to do a full cleaning before the pipe becomes completely blocked.

Running Toilets

When a toilet runs without stopping, it wastes water around the clock. The usual cause is a worn flapper that no longer seals tightly in the tank. Sometimes the fill valve or chain is to blame. Lift the lid on the tank every few months. Check that the flapper sits flat and seals fully. Make sure the chain allows the flapper to close instead of holding it open. These small adjustments usually solve the problem and keep your water bill under control.

Weak Water Pressure

Low water pressure makes showers unsatisfying and dish rinsing frustrating. Low water flow can show up in just one fixture or throughout the entire house. Mineral buildup in aerators and showerheads is a frequent cause, while leaks or corroded pipes usually point to bigger issues. A good first step is to remove and clean aerators and showerheads regularly. If the problem stays at one faucet, replacing the fixture often solves it. If it affects every fixture, check for leaks and consider having a plumber inspect the system.

Leaking Pipes

Leaks normally start small, with a drip under the sink or behind a wall. If it’s left alone, it can damage cabinets, floors, and drywall, and create the perfect environment for mold. Look under sinks and around appliances for damp spots. Pay attention to unexplained increases in your water bill. Upgrade old supply lines with braided stainless steel hoses. If you suspect a hidden leak, schedule an inspection before the damage spreads.

Water Heater Problems

When your water heater struggles, you usually notice right away. Cold showers or rusty water are common signs. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank cuts efficiency and shortens the heater’s life. Flushing the tank once a year helps clear it out. Set the thermostat at 120 degrees for comfort and savings. If banging sounds start or the water turns rusty, call a plumber in Galena, OH before the heater breaks down.

Garbage Disposal Jams

Garbage disposals can’t handle everything. Fibrous vegetables, bones, and grease can cause jams, and running the unit without enough water makes it worse. Always run cold water while using the disposal. Avoid feeding it stringy foods or large scraps. Cut waste into smaller pieces before grinding. A simple monthly cleaning with baking soda and vinegar helps keep it fresh and working smoothly.

Sewer Line Backups

A sewer line backup is one of the most serious issues a homeowner can face. It happens when tree roots, grease, or collapsed pipes block the main line, and the result is wastewater coming back into the home. Watch for early signs like gurgling drains, slow toilets, or backups in more than one fixture. Older homes or those with large trees should have regular camera inspections. Professional cleaning every few years can prevent major failures.

Sump Pump Failures

A sump pump protects basements from flooding, but when it fails during a storm, the results can be devastating. Sump pump problems usually come from clogs, switch issues, or simple old age. A good habit is to test the pump each season by filling the pit with water and checking that it cycles correctly. Keep the pit and discharge line free of debris, and plan to replace the pump at about ten years to avoid surprise breakdowns.

Frozen Pipes

In cold weather, water inside pipes can freeze and expand until the pipe bursts. Outdoor spigots and pipes in uninsulated spaces are at the greatest risk. Insulate pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. Disconnect garden hoses before winter. On very cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving. Open cabinet doors under sinks along outside walls so warm air can reach the pipes. Prevention here is far easier than dealing with a flood.

Keep Your System Working

Most plumbing problems have simple beginnings. Paying attention to small changes like a drip, a slow drain, or a strange noise can prevent major damage later. Regular maintenance like flushing your water heater, cleaning aerators, and checking supply lines keeps your system dependable and reduces the chance of sudden breakdowns.

Do You Need Help with Your Pipes or Fixtures?

A small leak or a running toilet can grow into an expensive repair if left alone. Sure Plumbing is ready to help with everything from routine maintenance to urgent plumbing repair. When you work with us, you get plumbers who care about long-term solutions. Call today to schedule your next service with a trusted plumber and keep your system in great shape.