Residential Plumbing issues are a common concern for every homeowner, and if not addressed promptly, they can lead to expensive repairs and significant water damage. Whether it’s a simple leaky faucet or a major sewer backup, understanding the root cause and choosing the right solution can save you time, money, and stress.
At 2 Ton Plumbing, we provide expert services including emergency plumbing, general plumbing, inspections, and routine maintenance to help you avoid major disasters. Below, we explore 18 common plumbing problems and how professional plumbers fix them.
Fixing Residential Plumbing: 18 Common Issues and Solutions
Multiple home plumbing problems can be inspected by a licensed residential plumber. You can get faucet and fixture installation or sewer and drain cleaning through emergency residential plumbing by professional companies.
Let’s discuss some common residential plumbing issues and the best possible solutions for them.
Leaky Faucets
According to the EPA, a dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water annually. Kitchen and Bathroom plumbing systems can give rise to multiple issues in home plumbing systems, such as worn-out washers, seals, or corrosion.
Follow these steps to get expert leak detection and repair from companies specializing in emergency residential plumbing services:
| Steps | Don’t Allow Drips: Fix Leaky Faucets |
| Step-1 | Turn off the water supply. |
| Step-2 | Replace the washer or O-ring inside the faucet. |
| Step-3 | Faucet or fixture installation for a permanent solution. |
| Step-4 | Reassemble the faucet and check for leaks. |
Clogged Drains
Hair, grease, food particles, and soap scum accumulation can lead to clogged drains in homes. With time, clogged drains in homes can cause standing water, unpleasant odor, or damage to the home plumbing system.
Don’t wait for clogging! Learn how to professionally unclog the drains:
| Steps | Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, once it’s done, pour hot water. |
| Step-1 | Remove the clog with the help of a drain snake or plunger. |
| Step-2 | Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, once it’s done pour hot water. |
| Step-3 | In the future, prevent clogs by using drain screens and avoiding grease disposal in sinks. |
Low Water Pressure
Slow water flow can make everyday tasks like showering and washing dishes frustrating. It is best to get affordable residential plumbing service. The common causes for slow water flow are mineral buildup in aerators, half-closed valves, or leaks in pipes.
Boost your pressure now! Here is how our professional plumbers fix the low water pressure issue:
| Steps | Pressure’s On! Fix Low Water Pressure |
| Step-1 | Clean faucet aerators with vinegar. |
| Step-2 | Check for hidden leaks or partially closed valves. |
| Step-3 | Inspect the pressure regulator for any issues. |
Running Toilet
A faulty flapper, fill valve, or improperly adjusted float mechanism can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. This often results from malfunctions in these components or incorrect water level settings.
Don’t worry about running the toilet and the mess now, because our experts follow the following steps to fix running toilets:
| Steps | Flush your Worries Away! Fix a Running Toilet |
| Step-1 | Adjust the float and check the flapper for damage. |
| Step-2 | Replace the fill valve if needed.q |
Dripping Shower Head
Leaks can develop in showerheads due to mineral buildup, worn washers, or improper installation. This can lead to water waste, staining, and mold growth.
Our professional and licensed plumbing contractors stop your showerhead’s drip like this:
| Steps | Drip, Drip Gone! Fix a dripping showerhead |
| Step-1 | Remove the showerhead and soak it in vinegar. |
| Step-2 | Replace the rubber gasket or washer. |
| Step-3 | Apply Teflon tape on the threads before reattaching. |
Pipe Leaks
Leaky pipes can lead to corrosion, high water pressure, severe water damage, mold growth, and increased utility bills. These leaks often result from existing corrosion or excessive pressure in the system. It’s best to seek expert advice to address such issues promptly.
Now, pipes that leak won’t disturb your sleep, our expert’s leak fixation steps will get you:
| Steps | Leak-Free Living: Fix Leaky Pipes |
| Step-1 | Turn off the main water supply. |
| Step-2 | For a temporary fix, apply epoxy putty or plumber’s tape. |
| Step-3 | Pipe installation for houses if necessary. |
Sewer System Backup
Get immediate sewer and drain cleaning because it can cause tree root intrusion, blockages, or damaged sewer lines, which will lead to multiple drains clogging, foul odors, and even wastewater overflow into your home.
Our licensed residential plumber fixes your sewer system like this:
| Steps | That’s How We Fix a Sewer System Backup. |
| Step-1 | Avoid flushing non-degradable items down the toilet. |
| Step-2 | Call a plumber for hydrojetting or sewer line inspections. |
Water Heater Issues
Sediment buildup, malfunctioning heating elements, or thermostat failures can create issues in water heaters that need instant water heater repair. It causes inefficient energy loss that will increase the energy bills.
Our excerpts keep your heaters in good health and let you enjoy warm water with the following residential plumbing repair steps:
| Steps | No hot water? Fix water heater issues now! |
| Step-1 | Flush the water heater to remove sediment. |
| Step-2 | Check the thermostat and heating elements. |
| Step-3 | If needed, replace the system. |
Slow-Draining Sink
Grease buildup, food debris, and soap scum lining the pipes can cause slow drainage. Over time, this may lead to complete blockages, resulting in standing water, foul odors, and mold or mildew growth.
Don’t wait for the slow-draining sink, our experts fix the draining speed with professional steps:
| Steps | Wanting to drain? Fix a slow-draining sink |
| Step-1 | Use a plunger or drain snake. |
| Step-2 | Pour hot water and dish soap down the drain to dissolve grease. |
Burst Pipes
Frozen water expansion and excessive water pressure can cause pipes to burst, leading to severe flooding and costly repairs. Pipe bursts commonly occur in winter when temperatures drop below freezing or when water pressure is too high.
Keep yourself safe from pipe nursing, hire a licensed residential plumber, and stop the burst now:
| Steps | Stop the Pipe Burst! |
| Step-1 | Shut off the main water supply immediately |
| Step-2 | Apply a pipe clamp or patch as a temporary solution. |
| Step-3 | Insulate pipes to prevent freezing. |
Water Discoloration
Discoloration in water is an issue that should be addressed promptly. Brown or yellow water indicates rust, sediment buildup, or aging pipes. This can affect water quality and stain sinks, bathtubs, and laundry, which leads to serious skin or health issues.
Don’t ignore water discoloration. learn how our experts fix this issue:
| Steps | Yellow or Cloudy water? Fix water discoloration |
| Step-1 | Flush the water system by running faucets for several minutes. |
| Step-2 | Replace old, corroded pipes if necessary. |
Sump Pump Failure
Basement flooding can be caused by sump pump failure, which leads to significant water damage. The most common reasons include power failures, stuck float switches, or clogged discharge pipes.
The tables below show how to fix a sump pump failure:
| Steps | Don’t Get Caught Off Guard: Fix Sump Pump Failure |
| Step-1 | Check the power source and test the pump by pouring water into the pit. |
| Step-2 | Clean debris from the intake and discharge lines. |
| Step-3 | Replace an old or malfunctioning pump. |
Toilet Clogs
Toilet clogs are usually caused by flushing excess toilet paper or non-flushable materials. Severe blockages can lead to overflowing and water damage. Toilet clogs can cause foul odor, an improper sewerage system, and health issues.
The following are the steps that show how to fix a clogged toilet for residential plumbing:
| Steps | Prevent Clogs: Fix toilet clogs |
| Step-1 | Use a plunger to create suction. |
| Step-2 | Try an auger for stubborn clogs. |
| Step-3 | Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and waste. |
Frozen Pipes
During winter, unprotected pipes are at risk of freezing. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside the pipes can solidify and expand, blocking the flow and potentially causing the pipes to burst.
Let’s learn how to fix a frozen pipe with professional repair steps:
| Steps | Unfreeze the Freeze: Fix Frozen Pipes? |
| Step-1 | Thaw frozen pipes with a hairdryer or warm towels. |
| Step-2 | Keep faucets dripping during cold weather. |
| Step-3 | Insulate exposed pipes to prevent future freezing. |
Gas Leaks (Emergency)
Gas leaks occur due to damaged pipes or faulty connections. They are dangerous and can cause health hazards or explosions. A gas leak is one of the dangerous residential plumbing issues that can be fatal, so it is crucial to address it promptly.
Let’s repair the gas leak and save your life:
| Steps | The Gas Leak is Fatal: Fix the Gas Leak |
| Step-1 | Evacuate the home immediately. |
| Step-2 | Do not use electrical appliances or open flames. |
| Step-3 | Call the gas company or emergency services. |
Noisy Pipes
Due to sudden pressure changes, banging or rattling can occur in pipes. This banging or rattling in pipes is known as a water hammer. Banging and water hammering may lead to a burst in pipes, so it is crucial to address them immediately.
Learn how to fix noisy pipes:
| Steps | Too much noise: Learn how to fix noisy pipes |
| Step-1 | Install water hammer arrestors. |
| Step-2 | Secure loose pipes with clamps. |
Mildew or Mold Growth
Due to leaks or poor ventilation, mold or mildew can grow in the pipes, which causes serious health issues like respiratory problems and allergies. Mold and mildew growth can cause foul odor and chronic lung issues.
Stop mold or mildew growth now:
| Steps | How to prevent mold and mildew growth? |
| Step-1 | Fix leaks and improve ventilation. |
| Step-2 | Use a dehumidifier and clean the mold with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. |
Water Softener Malfunction
Hard water can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. It may also pose health risks and disrupt the balance of soft water systems. Promptly reporting and addressing this issue is essential.
The following table shows how to fix a water softener malfunction:
| Steps | How to fix a water softener malfunction? |
| Step-1 | Refill salt levels and clean the resin bed. |
| Step-2 | Perform regular maintenance as per the manufacturer’s instructions. |
Conclusion
Inspecting and addressing residential plumbing issues promptly is crucial to prevent costly repairs in the future. Regular maintenance and professional inspections can save you significant time, minimize unexpected breakdowns, and ensure the long-term durability of your residential plumbing system. Once a residential plumbing issue is identified, it is important to seek immediate residential plumbing solutions from trusted home plumbing maintenance companies.
FAQs
1: How much does residential plumbing repair cost?
The cost of residential plumbing repair depends on multiple factors such as the type of repair, the material, and the plumber’s cost.
2: How often should I schedule a professional plumbing inspection?
The professional plumbing inspection is necessary at least twice a year, but if the house is old and you notice any plumbing damage, then you should immediately get professional help.
3: Are drain-cleaning chemicals a safe option to use?
For quick and temporary cleaning, you can use drain cleaning chemicals, but they are not always a safe option for your pipes.
4: Is it important to hire a licensed plumber?
Yes, a licensed plumber can handle complex plumbing issues and have repair experience. Always ensure that your plumber is licensed and insured.
5: Can I fix plumbing issues with DIY techniques?
No, you should not do that because plumbing repair needs professional assessment and repair, so that there is no future damage.
