7 Common Plumbing Problems (and How to Fix Them at Home)

1. Leaky Faucets

A leaky faucet may seem like a minor inconvenience, but over time, it can add up to a significant waste of water and money. Leaks usually happen when washers or seals inside the faucet become worn out. These tiny parts can be replaced, but the real challenge is figuring out what’s causing the leak in the first place.

When you notice a constant drip from your faucet, it’s likely due to a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the faucet valve. The rubber or plastic washers wear down over time, allowing water to escape and create that annoying drip. Fortunately, fixing this issue isn’t too complicated. Start by turning off the water supply to the faucet and removing the handle to access the valve. Inspect the washers and O-rings; if they appear damaged, replacing them will often stop the leak. Once you’ve replaced the parts, reassemble the faucet, turn the water supply back on, and test for leaks. It’s a simple fix that can prevent unnecessary water waste and lower your utility bills.

2. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are an all-too-familiar household problem. They can occur for many reasons, such as soap, grease, food particles, or hair building up in the pipes. Sometimes the clog can be resolved with a simple solution, while other times it requires a more detailed approach.

For small, localized clogs, you can start by using a plunger. This common tool works by using air pressure to dislodge blockages in the pipe. If that doesn’t work, you can try a drain snake, which is a coiled metal wire that you insert into the drain to physically break up or pull out the clog. Alternatively, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water can break down minor blockages and clean the pipes. If the drain remains clogged, it could be an indication that there is a more serious buildup farther down the pipe, requiring a professional-grade auger or snaking tool to clear it out.

Preventing clogs in the first place is key. Consider using drain covers to catch hair or food debris, and avoid pouring grease down the drain, as it can solidify and cause further blockages. Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can also help keep things flowing smoothly.

3. Running Toilet

A running toilet is one of the most frustrating plumbing problems because it wastes both water and money. When the toilet continues to run after being flushed, it’s typically caused by issues with the internal components of the toilet tank. The most common culprit is a faulty flapper valve, which controls the flow of water into the bowl. If the valve doesn’t seal properly, water will continuously leak into the bowl, leading to the running sound. Other potential causes include a misaligned float or a malfunctioning fill valve.

The first step in fixing a running toilet is to turn off the water supply to the toilet. After that, remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper, float, and fill valve. If the flapper valve appears worn or warped, it can be replaced easily. Adjust the float if it seems too high or low, which affects the water level in the tank. If the fill valve is malfunctioning, it might need a replacement. These parts are generally affordable and can be found at most hardware stores. Once everything is in place, turn the water back on and check for leaks or the continued running of water.

4. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is another common issue that homeowners face. A sudden drop in water pressure can make showering, washing dishes, or doing laundry a tedious task. The cause could be something as simple as a clogged aerator on the faucet, or it could indicate a more serious issue such as a leak in your plumbing or a problem with the water supply.

If only one faucet is affected, the problem is likely with the aerator. The aerator is a small screen at the end of the faucet that controls the flow of water. Over time, mineral deposits can build up, restricting water flow. Unscrewing the aerator and cleaning it with vinegar usually solves the problem. However, if the low pressure is widespread, it could be due to pipe corrosion, leaks, or issues with the water supply line. You may need to call in a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue if it’s not isolated to a single fixture.

In the meantime, you can increase the pressure temporarily by adjusting the pressure regulator, which controls the water pressure for the entire system. If the regulator is faulty, replacing it can restore normal water pressure.

5. Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are one of the most serious plumbing issues that can lead to extensive water damage in your home. This problem is especially common in colder climates, where pipes freeze and crack during winter. Other factors such as age, poor maintenance, or tree roots growing into the pipes can also cause pipes to burst.

If you discover a burst pipe, it’s crucial to act quickly. First, turn off the main water supply to prevent further flooding. If the pipe is frozen, carefully thaw it out using a hairdryer or space heater (never use an open flame). Once the pipe is thawed, inspect it for cracks or breaks. For small cracks, you can temporarily seal the pipe with pipe repair tape, but a burst pipe may require replacing a section of the pipe entirely. In some cases, a professional plumber will need to fix the issue if the damage is too severe.

6. Water Heater Issues

Water heater problems are something most homeowners will face at some point, whether it’s not producing hot water, making strange noises, or leaking. Common causes include sediment buildup in the tank, a broken heating element, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

If you notice that your water heater isn’t providing enough hot water, the first step is to check the thermostat. Ensure that it’s set to the correct temperature, around 120°F, as higher settings can cause overheating or energy waste. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank is a frequent cause of water heater malfunctions. To address this, turn off the water and power supply, and then drain the tank to remove sediment. If the water heater is making popping or crackling noises, it’s often a sign of mineral buildup, and draining the tank will likely solve the problem.

In more severe cases, the heating elements may need to be replaced, or you may need to install a new water heater if yours is too old or damaged to be repaired.

7. Sewer Line Problems

If your toilet and/or drains are backing up with sewage, there’s a major obstruction somewhere in the main sewer line. Tree roots, grease buildup, and pipe collapse are the usual culprits.

If you suspect a sewer line blockage, avoid using sinks or toilets to prevent any further waste from backing up. While minor blockages can sometimes be cleared using a plumbing snake or auger, most sewer line problems require professional intervention. A plumber can inspect the line with a camera to locate the blockage and either clear it or replace the damaged pipe. In some cases, tree roots may need to be removed, or the entire sewer line might require replacement to restore proper flow.

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