5 Common Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them

Dealing with any sort of plumbing problem is never fun. Although no problems are fun, plumbing problems — such as clogged drains and sinks — can affect your ability to shower, flush the toilet, or even wash your hands. It can become a nightmare! 

Moreover, plumbing problems never seem to fall in the middle: They’re either simple and inexpensive to repair, or they are complex cost as much as a weekend getaway. 

This underscores why it is so important to ensure you don’t have any plumbing issues whenever you remodel your bathroom or renovate your kitchen or have any other work performed. This also underscores why it is essential to avoid hiring bad contractors who can be the source of your plumbing problems. Remember, you always get what you pay for! 

Nevertheless, sometimes even when plumbing is installed by the best local professionals, common everyday wear and tear, along with unwitting household mistakes (such as pouring oil and grease down the drain) can cause plumbing problems to arise in a short period of time. 

It can also be difficult to self-diagnose plumbing problems or even articulate them to plumbers. To avoid sounding completely clueless, your friends at Five Star Home Services have listed five common plumbing problems, how to inquire about them, and what to expect of the service: 

Our List of 5 Common Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them

Leaky Faucets: This common issue can often be fixed by replacing the washer. Over time, washers can become worn and cause the faucet to leak. Be sure to install the correct size and type of washer for your faucet. 

Slow Draining Sink: This is usually caused by a blockage that restricts water flow. You can often fix this by using a plunger, pouring down a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, or using a plumber’s snake. 

Running Toilet: This can waste a lot of water and is usually caused by a faulty flapper valve which controls the water that passes from the tank to the toilet bowl. You might need to replace the flapper or any other broken parts in the toilet tank. 

Low Water Pressure: This can often be caused by a buildup of sediment or mineral deposits on aerators. The solution is to clean the aerators by soaking them in vinegar. 

Leaky Pipes: Leaks usually happen at the pipe joints and can be temporarily fixed with tape, fillers, or compounds, but for a more permanent solution, you might need to replace the pipe or its fittings. Always remember to turn off the water before you start any work on your pipes.  

Other Common Plumbing Issues

Apart from those top five common plumbing issues, there are a few other problems that you may encounter in your home’s plumbing system. These include clogged drains, frozen pipes, and water heater malfunctions. 

The buildup of hair, grease, or food particles in your pipes can cause clogged drains. You can try using a plunger or a drain snake to remove the blockage. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use a chemical drain cleaner or call a professional plumber. 

Frozen pipes can occur during winter when the water inside them freezes and expands, causing the pipes to burst. To prevent this, insulate your pipes properly and leave a small stream of water running in extremely cold weather. 

Water heater malfunctions can lead to no hot water or even leaks. If you notice any issues with your water heater, such as strange noises or discolored water, it’s best to call a professional plumber for repairs. 

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to plumbing issues can save you from bigger problems and costly repairs in the long run. Always turn off the water before attempting any DIY fixes and don’t hesitate to call a professional if needed.  So watch for these common plumbing issues and be prepared to fix them effectively. Your home’s plumbing system will thank you!  

So, always pay attention to the signs of potential problems and take care of any issues as soon as possible. By doing so, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing stays in good working condition for years to come.  So, keep these tips in mind and be a responsible homeowner when it comes to your plumbing system!  

Need a fast and affordable plumber who’s local?

If you need any further assistance or have any other concerns, don’t hesitate to call the professional plumbers at Five Star Home Services. Our team has the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to handle any plumbing issue effectively and efficiently. Please don’t wait until it’s too late, address plumbing issues promptly to maintain the functionality and safety of your home. Remember, a small leak left unfixed can lead to bigger problems. So don’t ignore any signs of trouble and take care of your plumbing system with proper maintenance and repairs. Schedule online now!