The most common plumbing problems include clogged drains and toilets, leaky faucets and pipes, low water pressure, running toilet and water heater issues.
These issues mostly occur in old homes and apartments but that doesn’t mean that you won’t experience them in new ones.
However, detecting the issues early and fixing them on time will save you a lot of headache and a few bucks.
Five Most Common Plumbing Issues, Causes and Solutions
Take note of the following five most common plumbing issues, causes and solutions:
Clogged Drains and Toilets
Sometimes, water backs up in your drains when you take a shower or empty your sink.
For the toilet, water may accumulate in the bowl and it may overflow.
Causes
The most common causes of clogged drains in sinks and showers include the following:
- Hair;
- Shampoo lid; and
- Small toys.
These things often block your drains, making it difficult or nearly impossible for water to pass through.
Toilets may get clogged when indissoluble waste enters them and can’t find their way out.
Solutions
You have two options available to you if your drain or toilet is clogged:
- Clear the blockage; or
- Call a plumber.
Leaky Faucets and Pipes
You may not be able to detect a leaking faucet immediately. After some time, you may begin to hear dripping or see a puddle below the pipes.
Causes
A faucet begins to drip if the washer on the seal is damaged. The damage may be as a result of dislodging, stiffening or tearing.
Solutions
There are two ways to fix a leaky faucet:
- Replace the washer; or
- Replace a U-joint.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure makes rinsing and showers difficult. It is a common problem in old homes but similar issues can also occur in new homes.
Causes
The causes of low water pressure are as follows:
- A broken water main;
- A leaky pipe; or
- Build-up of minerals and sediment.
Solutions
Do the following if you want to fix your low water pressure problem:
- Clean the faucet tap; or
- Soak the aerator in vinegar overnight in order to loosen the build-up if you think that’s the problem.
Running Toilet
A running toilet is one of the most common toilet plumbing problems. Although the toilet still works, it runs constantly and wastes water in the process.
Causes
Running toilet is caused by the following things:
- Improper fitting of the flapper valve;
- Imbalanced float;
- Loose fill tube; or
- A leak.
Solutions
Fix a running toilet through any of the following ways:
- Check the fill tube;
- Adjust the float;
- Check the flapper chain; or
- Replace all the internal components of the tank if simple adjustments don’t work.
Water Heater Issues
You can easily detect water heater issues. However, regular maintenance can keep you out of trouble.
Common signs of water heater issues are cold water dispensing, discolored water, dripping water, water puddles and sometimes noise from the water heater.
Causes
The major causes of water heater issues include the following:
- Leaks;
- Insufficient hot water;
- Mineral deposits; and
- Sediment.
Solutions
Fix your water heater problems through the following ways:
- Ensure that the pilot light is on if your water heater runs on gas;
- Check the temperature setting; or
- Drain the water tank if you think sediment is the problem.
While you can fix some of these plumbing issues yourself, it pays to call a professional for help.
Plumbing 911 is a reputable plumbing firm made up of professionals. Plumbing 911 offers full service for both residential and commercial properties, including everyday maintenance and emergency needs. Our professionals are skilled in fixing clogged drains and toilets, leaky faucets and pipes, low water pressure, running toilets and water heaters. Call Plumbing 911 on toll-free number 1-866-720-0911 for a free inspection in your area, schedule an appointment today or simply send an email. We cover Cuyahoga East, Cuyahoga West, Medina, Summit, Stark, Lake and Geauga.
