Are your pipes loudly groaning, or is the water suddenly disappearing?

You’d better check the state of your home plumbing because there can be a lot of issues, and it could be a disaster if you act slowly.

Even if professionals take care of your house, you should still know how to deal with common home plumbing issues. These are some of the most common problems, so you know what to watch for.

1. Leaky Faucets

A leaky faucet can be a nuisance and cause water waste, increasing your water bill. The cause of a leaky faucet is often a worn-out washer or O-ring that needs replacement.

To fix the problem, turn off the water supply and disassemble the faucet carefully. You should keep the disassembled parts to facilitate easy reassembly. The washer or O-ring should be carefully removed and replaced with a new one.

If the problem persists, the valve seat may need to be replaced. Once the repairs are complete, reassemble the faucet, turn on the water supply, and test the faucet for leaks. Taking care of a leaky faucet as soon as possible can prevent further damage to your plumbing system and save you money in the long run.

2. Clogged Drains

Various factors, such as a buildup of hair, grease, soap, and other debris, can cause clogged drains. A plunger is a handy tool to dislodge a clog.

To use a plunger, ensure enough water covers the plunger head, press it down firmly, and pull it up sharply. Repeat this several times until the clog clears. If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a drain snake, a long, flexible metal wire that can break up clogs.

To prevent future clogs, avoid pouring grease and other solids down the drain and use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris. If the clog persists, it may be time to call residential plumbing services to inspect your home plumbing system and remove the blockage.

3. Running Toilets

A running toilet can waste significant water and increase your water bill. The problem is often caused by a faulty flapper or a problem with the fill valve.

To fix the problem, turn off the water supply and remove the toilet tank’s lid. Check the flapper to seal the opening at the bottom of the tank properly. If it’s worn out, it should be replaced.

If the problem is with the fill valve, you may need to adjust or replace it. If you’re unsure what’s causing the problem, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait a few minutes. If the color appears in the bowl, you have a leaky flapper.

4. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be caused by a buildup of sediment in the pipes or a faulty pressure regulator. To fix the problem, start by cleaning the faucet aerator, the small screen at the end of the faucet. Remove the aerator, clean it thoroughly, and reinstall it.

If this doesn’t work, check the pressure regulator, which is located near the main water shutoff valve. If it’s faulty, it may need to be replaced. If the problem persists, the pipes may be clogged with sediment, and you may need to call a professional plumber to flush the pipes or replace them if necessary. 

5. Water Heater Issues

A variety of factors, including a faulty heating element, a tripped circuit breaker, or a malfunctioning thermostat, can cause a water heater that isn’t producing hot water. To fix the problem, check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If that’s not the issue, check the thermostat setting to ensure it’s properly adjusted.

If neither of these solutions works, the problem may be a faulty heating element. In this case, you may need to replace the heating element or call a professional plumber to do it for you. It’s also important to ensure that the water heater is maintained correctly by flushing it regularly and having it inspected by a professional plumber annually.

6. Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can cause significant water damage and result in costly repairs. They are often caused by freezing temperatures or water pressure that’s too high.

To fix the problem, turn off the water supply and open all the faucets to drain the water from the pipes. Apply heat to the frozen section of the pipe using a hairdryer or a heat lamp to thaw it. If the pipe has burst, it may need to be replaced, and it’s best to call a professional plumber for help.

To prevent future bursts, insulate the pipes in colder areas of the house, and keep the thermostat set to a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit during cold weather. It’s also important to have the pipes inspected by a professional plumber annually to ensure they’re in good condition and not at risk of bursting.

7. Dripping Showerheads

Various factors, including mineral buildup, worn-out washers or O-rings, or faulty valves, can cause dripping showerheads. To fix the problem, start by turning off the water supply to the shower. Remove the showerhead and clean it thoroughly to remove any mineral buildup.

If the showerhead is still dripping, check the washer or O-ring inside it and replace it if necessary. If the problem persists, the valve may be faulty, and you may need to replace it. It’s also important to ensure that the showerhead is installed correctly and sealed to prevent leaks.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of the showerhead can also help prevent mineral buildup and prolong the life of the fixture. If the issue is beyond your skill level, feel free to call a professional plumber to inspect the shower and fix the problem.

Fix These Home Plumbing Issues Today

Basic plumbing maintenance is essential to avoid costly plumbing repairs. Regular examination of plumbing systems, such as checking for leaky faucets, clogged drains, and faulty water heaters, helps catch minor problems before they become more extensive and more expensive. If you’re facing significant home plumbing issues, contact a professional plumber to help.

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