10 Common Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

Plumbing issues can be a headache, but they don’t always require an emergency call to a plumber. Many common problems have simple solutions, and knowing how to address them can save you time and money. However, some situations do require professional help to prevent bigger issues down the line.

At Advanced Plumbing, we’ve seen it all—leaky faucets, clogged drains, and water pressure nightmares. Here’s a guide to the 10 most common plumbing problems, how to fix them, and when to call in the experts.

1. Dripping Faucets

A dripping faucet might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste gallons of water over time and increase your water bill. The usual culprit is a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the faucet.

How to Fix It:

- Turn off the water supply

- Remove the faucet handle and replace the washer

- Reassemble and test

If the drip persists, the entire faucet may need replacement.

2. Clogged Drains

Hair, grease, soap residue, and food particles are the main causes of slow or clogged drains.

How to Fix It:

- Use a plunger to loosen the blockage

- Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water

- Avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes

For tough clogs, professional drain cleaning may be needed.

3. Low Water Pressure

If your shower or faucet isn’t producing strong water flow, it could be due to mineral buildup in the aerator, a pipe leak, or an issue with the municipal water supply.

How to Fix It:

- Unscrew the aerator and clean out debris

- Check for leaks around pipes

- If the problem affects the whole house, contact your water provider or a plumber

4. Running Toilets

A toilet that won’t stop running can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day. This is usually caused by a faulty flapper or fill valve.

How to Fix It:

- Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper—replace it if it's worn out

- Adjust the float level if the tank is overfilling

- Replace the fill valve if the problem persists

5. Leaky Pipes

Leaks can occur at pipe joints, under sinks, or within walls, leading to water damage and mold growth.

How to Fix It:

- Tighten loose fittings with a wrench

- Apply plumber’s tape or pipe sealant for small leaks

- For significant leaks, shut off the water and call a plumber immediately

6. Water Heater Issues

If you’re getting lukewarm or no hot water, your water heater could have sediment buildup, a faulty thermostat, or a broken heating element.

How to Fix It:

- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment

- Check the thermostat settings (120°F is ideal)

- Call a plumber for heating element repairs or replacement

7. Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are a plumbing emergency that can cause severe water damage. They often occur in freezing temperatures when water inside the pipes expands.

How to Prevent It:

- Insulate exposed pipes in winter

- Keep faucets dripping during freezing weather

- Shut off the main water supply and call a plumber if a pipe bursts

8. Sewer Line Backups

If multiple drains in your home are slow or gurgling, your sewer line might be clogged. Tree roots, grease buildup, or a damaged pipe could be the cause.

How to Fix It:

Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper

- Schedule professional sewer line cleaning

- If you notice sewage backups, call a plumber immediately

9. Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump prevents basement flooding, but if it stops working, you could end up with major water damage.

How to Fix It:

- Test your sump pump regularly by pouring water into the pit

- Make sure the pump is plugged in and the float switch moves freely

- If the pump doesn’t activate, it may need repair or replacement

10. Noisy Pipes (Water Hammer)

If you hear loud banging noises in your pipes when turning off a faucet, you may have water hammer—caused by sudden pressure changes in the pipes.

How to Fix It:

- Install a water hammer arrestor

- Check for loose pipe brackets and secure them

- Reduce water pressure if it’s too high

When to Call a Professional

While some plumbing issues can be handled with DIY solutions, others require expert attention. If you experience:

✔ Persistent leaks

✔ Sewer backups

✔ Burst pipes

✔ No hot water

✔ Low water pressure throughout the house

It’s time to call Advanced Plumbing! Our experienced team is ready to handle any plumbing issue, big or small.

Need Plumbing Help? Contact Us Today!

Don’t let plumbing problems disrupt your home. Whether you need a quick repair, a thorough inspection, or a full plumbing upgrade, Advanced Plumbing is here to help. Call (409) 739-4895 today to schedule a service and keep your plumbing system in top shape!