9 Common Plumbing Issues to Watch Out For

Plumbing issues can disrupt your daily life, affect your home’s value, and even pose health risks if not addressed promptly.

From minor annoyances like a dripping faucet to emergencies like burst pipes, these problems can escalate, leading to costly repairs.

Understanding common plumbing issues and how to handle them empowers homeowners and renters to act quickly and effectively. 

Here are nine frequent plumbing problems, offer preventive maintenance tips, discuss when to tackle issues yourself versus calling a professional, and look at ways to future-proof your plumbing system.

For those in the Lilburn and Atlanta metro area, Stars and Pipes Plumbing Atlanta is ready to assist, give us a call at (770) 398-STAR (7827) for expert service today!

Common Plumbing Issues

1. Leaking Faucets and Pipes

Leaking faucets and pipes are among the most common plumbing issues, often starting small but potentially causing significant water waste and damage.

• Typical Causes: Worn-out washers, loose connections, or corroded pipes can lead to leaks. Over time, even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water, increasing your utility bills.
• Early Detection: Look for water spots under sinks or around pipes, listen for dripping sounds, or check for an unexplained rise in your water bill.
• DIY Solutions: For faucets, replacing a worn washer or tightening connections can often resolve the issue. For pipes, temporary fixes like pipe clamps can be applied, but these are not long-term solutions.
• Professional Repair Indicators: If the leak originates from a pipe within a wall, under a slab, or if the source is unclear, contact a licensed plumber to prevent further damage.

2. Clogged Drains and Toilets

Clogged drains and toilets can disrupt your routine and lead to messy backups if not addressed.

• Main Blockage Sources: Hair, soap scum, grease, food waste, and foreign objects like wipes or sanitary products are common culprits.
• Prevention: Use drain strainers to catch debris, avoid pouring grease down the drain, and only flush toilet paper and waste to prevent blockages.
• Safe Clearing Techniques: A plunger or drain snake can clear minor clogs. Chemical drain cleaners can be used cautiously, following instructions to avoid pipe damage.
• When to Escalate: If DIY methods fail or if multiple drains are slow, it may indicate a sewer line issue, requiring professional intervention.

3. Running Toilets

A running toilet can waste significant water, quietly increasing your bills.

• Common Mechanism Failures: A faulty flapper valve, misaligned lift chain, or clogged fill tube often causes the issue.
• Troubleshooting Steps: Check if the flapper seals properly, adjust the lift chain for correct tension, or clear any blockages in the fill tube.
• Repair Options: Most running toilets can be fixed with an inexpensive repair kit (under $10) that includes a new flapper and other components, easily installed without special tools.
• When to Call a Professional: If the problem persists after DIY attempts or if you’re uncomfortable working with toilet mechanisms, a plumber can help.

4. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating.

• Common Causes: Clogged aerators (the screen at the end of faucets), mineral buildup in pipes, leaks, or issues with the municipal water supply can reduce pressure.
• Systematic Diagnosis: Test pressure at different fixtures. If only one faucet is affected, the issue is likely localized, such as a clogged aerator. If the entire house is affected, it could be a larger problem.
• Solutions: Clean or replace aerators, repair leaks, or check for sediment buildup in pipes. Contact your water utility if the issue is widespread.
• When to Call a Professional: If pipe corrosion or other internal issues are suspected, a plumber with specialized tools is needed.

5. Water Heater Malfunctions

A malfunctioning water heater can leave you without hot water, disrupting your comfort.

• Signs of Failure: No hot water, insufficient hot water, strange noises (e.g., popping or rumbling), or leaks around the tank indicate problems.
• Maintenance: Flush the tank annually to remove sediment, check the pressure relief valve, and ensure the temperature is set to 120°F for efficiency and safety.
• Repair vs. Replacement: Minor issues like a faulty heating element can be repaired. For older units (over 10 years) or extensive damage, replacement may be more cost-effective.
• When to Call a Professional: Leaks, electrical issues, or uncertainty about the problem require professional assessment.

6. Burst Pipes and Major Leaks

Burst pipes are emergencies that can cause significant water damage if not addressed immediately.

• Emergency Response Steps: Shut off the main water supply to stop the flow, assess the damage, and call a plumber. If flooding occurs, start drying the area to prevent mold growth.
• Prevention Strategies: Insulate pipes in cold areas to prevent freezing, know your main shut-off valve’s location, and address minor leaks promptly to avoid escalation.
• Long-Term Solutions: Replace old or corroding pipes, especially in areas prone to freezing or high pressure.

7. Sewer Line Problems and Foul Odors

Sewer line issues are serious and can pose health risks if not addressed quickly.

• Early Warning Signs: Slow drains, gurgling sounds, foul odors, or sewage backups are indicators of sewer line problems.
• Health Implications: Exposure to sewage can lead to bacterial infections and contamination, making immediate action critical.
• Remediation: A plumber with camera inspection equipment can locate blockages or damage, followed by repairs or replacement of damaged sections.
• Professional Intervention: Always call a licensed plumber for sewer line issues, as they require specialized tools and expertise.

8. Discolored or Contaminated Water

Discolored water can be alarming and may signal underlying issues with your plumbing or water supply.

• Source Identification: Rust from old pipes, sediment from water mains, or contamination from the municipal supply can cause discoloration. Brown or black water may indicate rust or manganese, while cloudy water could be due to air bubbles or minerals.
• Remediation: Run cold water for a few minutes to see if it clears. If not, contact your water utility to check for supply issues or hire a plumber to inspect your pipes.
• Reporting Procedures: If contamination is suspected (e.g., unusual taste, smell, or color), report it to your local health department or water utility for testing.

9. Outdoor Plumbing Concerns

Outdoor plumbing issues can affect your yard and your home’s entire plumbing system.

• Common Issues: Leaking hose bibs (outdoor faucets), faulty sprinkler systems, or frozen pipes in winter are common problems.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Winterize outdoor faucets by draining them or using antifreeze. In spring, check for leaks and test sprinkler systems. Regularly inspect for cracks or corrosion.
• Repair: For leaking hose bibs, replace washers or the entire faucet if necessary. For sprinkler systems, check for broken heads, clogged lines, or low pressure.

Preventive Plumbing Maintenance

Preventive maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs and keeping your plumbing system efficient.

Routine Inspection Checklist

• Monthly: Check for leaks under sinks and around appliances. Test toilets for silent leaks by adding food coloring to the tank and checking if it appears in the bowl without flushing.
• Seasonal: Inspect outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems. Winterize outdoor plumbing in colder months to prevent freezing.
• Annual: Flush your water heater to remove sediment, check the pressure relief valve, and consider a professional sewer line inspection.

Water Conservation and Eco-Friendly Practices

• Fix leaks promptly to save water and reduce bills.
• Install low-flow fixtures (faucets, showerheads, toilets) to minimize water usage.
• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items; use trash instead.
• Use energy-efficient water heaters to reduce energy consumption.

Upgrading Plumbing Fixtures

• When to Repair vs. Replace: If a fixture is old, inefficient, or requires frequent repairs, replacement is often more cost-effective. Look for fixtures with WaterSense labels for water efficiency.
• Selecting Efficient, Code-Compliant Products: Choose fixtures that meet local building codes and are designed for water and energy efficiency. Consult a plumber for recommendations.

DIY vs. Professional Plumbing Solutions

Knowing when to handle a plumbing issue yourself and when to call a professional can save time and money.

Assessing DIY Suitability

• Essential Tools: Keep a plunger, adjustable wrench, pipe cutter, Teflon tape, and drain snake on hand for basic repairs.
• Safety Guidelines: Always turn off the water supply before starting repairs. Wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses. Stop and call a professional if you’re unsure.

When to Hire a Licensed Plumber

• Code Requirements: Work involving gas lines, major pipe replacements, or permit-required jobs must be done by a licensed plumber.
• Complexities: Sewer line repairs, water heater installations, or diagnosing hidden leaks require specialized tools and expertise.
• How to Vet and Select a Trusted Professional: Check for licenses and insurance, read online reviews, ask for references, and get multiple quotes.

Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System

As technology advances and environmental challenges grow, future-proofing your plumbing system is increasingly important.

Emerging Technologies and Smart Plumbing

• Leak Detection Systems: Automatically shut off water if a leak is detected, preventing damage.
• Water Monitoring: Track usage to identify anomalies early and conserve water.
• Automation: Smart irrigation systems adjust watering based on weather conditions, saving water and reducing bills.

Preparing for Climate and Environmental Changes

• Pipe Insulation: Protect pipes from freezing in cold climates by insulating exposed lines.
• Flood Prevention: Install backflow preventers and sump pumps to mitigate flood risks.
• Resilience: Use durable, corrosion-resistant materials for pipes and fixtures to withstand extreme weather.

Wrapping It Up

Understanding and addressing common plumbing issues, practicing preventive maintenance, knowing when to DIY or call a professional, and future-proofing your system are all crucial for maintaining a healthy home.

By staying proactive, you can avoid many plumbing headaches and ensure your home remains comfortable and functional. 

Contact Stars and Pipes Plumbing Atlanta at (770) 398-STAR (7827) for any plumbing needs in the Lilburn and Atlanta metro area. Our team of experts is ready to help keep your plumbing in top shape.