If you’re like most homeowners, you’ll probably need plumbing contractors at some point. And, with cold weather just around the corner, you’ll be even more likely to need plumbing services.
Here are six of the most common plumbing problems and what you can do to fix them.
1. A Clogged Drain
If you’ve never experienced a clogged drain, count yourself lucky. Clogged drains keep plumbing contractors busier than almost any other problem.
Grease, food, hair, or foreign objects that get trapped in your drain can cause a clog and sometimes require the help of a local plumbing contractor.
Many store-bought products that are used to clear the drain can sometimes push the clog further out of reach. It’s best to try to manually clear the blockage either by hand or by using a tool, such as a plunger or snake.
To prevent clogged drains, use strainers in your showers and sinks to catch hair or food.
Be sure to throw away grease rather than dumping it down the drain.
2. A Toilet That Won’t Stop Running
A toilet that won’t stop running isn’t just annoying—it can increase your water bill.
First, check the water level. If the water isn’t filling all the way up, open up the water valve behind your toilet. If that doesn’t do the trick, check the flapper to make sure it’s covering the valve.
It might be stuck open or you may need a new one. You could also try lowering the float or ballcock to lower the water level.
If none of those work, reach out to a residential plumber who can replace any necessary parts.
3. Low Water Pressure
Many homeowners complain of low water pressure at one time or another. Whether poor plumbing design is a problem or a blockage is to blame, there are several things you can do.
First, check with your neighbors to see if they’re having the same problem.
An accident, burst pipe, or maintenance in the area could be causing lower than usual water pressure. If not, you could try opening the water valves fully.
You should also check for frozen pipes, clogs, or leaks. If none of that helps, you could have plumbing contractors install a water pressure booster system.
4. A Dripping Tap
A dripping tap can leave stains and erosion on your bathtubs and sinks. The most common cause is a bad washer.
You may be able to replace it yourself, but it's recommended to hire a professional to prevent doing further damage to your tap.
If the washer isn’t the cause for the drip, check the O-ring to see if it needs to be replaced.
Professional plumbing contractors may be able to determine the problem.
5. A Clogged Toilet
Clogged toilets can be a hassle. If water won’t go down or the level rises, you’ve got a clog.
You’ll need some gloves, a plunger, and some towels or newspaper for cleanup. Locate the clog and either plunge, snake, or reach in with a gloved hand to remove it.
If none of that works, you will want to call a plumber.
You may even need to pump out your septic tank if your clog seems to be affecting the sinks and showers, as well.
6. Leaking Pipes
Nearly 10% of American homes have plumbing that leaks.
Not only do leaks waste up to 90 gallons of water per day, but they can also cause serious damage to your home.
If you notice drips, stains, or puddles, don’t let the problem persist. If you do, you could end up with mold, damaged drywall, rotted floors, or warped cabinets.
Locate the source of the leak immediately, turn off the electricity, then turn off the water, and either call in the professionals or use a pipe repair kit to fix it.
If you’ve noticed any of these common plumbing problems, don’t fret—most of them have simple solutions.
The most important thing to do is to act quickly. Don’t let a leak, drip, or clog go unchecked.
Doing so could lead to higher water bills, damage to your home, or even more costly repairs.
If you can’t locate the problem immediately, don’t wait to call professional plumbing contractors for help.