Common Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Clogs caused by hair, soap scum, and food particles can lead to severe plumbing issues, but prevention is key. Using drain screens and avoiding pouring grease down the sink can help.

Plumbing issues show up when least expected. Professional plumbers can fix genuine plumbing problems, but there are many things a homeowner can do to keep their plumbing in swimmingly good order without a plumbing bill. It’s easy to mitigate some of the more common plumbing problems with some know-how and preventative measures.

Here are some common plumbing woes and how a homeowner can manage them.

Dripping faucets

The sound of a dripping faucet is the cue for excess water going down the drain literally and money going down figuratively. A worn-out washer is usually the culprit. Generally, it’s easy for a homeowner with the skills and tools to fix a leaky faucet, and it can save gallons of water and a considerable amount on the water bill.

Even if fixing a dripping faucet isn’t hard, prevention is still better. Check the faucets for wear; if some parts seem worn out or misplaced, replace or fix them. A little attention can go a long way. If a homeowner doesn’t have the tools or know-how, a plumber can help.

Clogged drains

Clogs are one of the more annoying plumbing issues and can have severe consequences if they have a chance to grow. Hair, soap scum, and food particles are usually to blame. A plunger or a plumber’s snake can often clear the blockage, but prevention is even sweeter.

Use drain screens to catch hair and food scraps, and avoid pouring grease down the kitchen sink. It solidifies and clogs pipes. If a clogged drain persists or recurs frequently, the problem may be further down the line, and a plumber can help.

Running toilets

A constantly running toilet wastes up to 200 gallons of water a day. That’s too many flushes down the drain that serve no purpose. Faulty flappers or problematic fill valves often cause this issue. Luckily, toilet repair kits are readily available and easy to use.

To avoid the need for repair, check the toilet’s internal components yearly (or have a professional do it). If parts look worn or don’t function smoothly, replace them.

Leaky pipes

Leaks cause water damage and encourage mold growth. They often occur at joints that might need tightening or sealing. Call a professional for more significant leaks, which usually mean something serious is happening in the pipes.

During colder months, insulate pipes to prevent them from freezing. Also, watch the water bill; a sudden spike could indicate a hidden leak.

Low water pressure

Low water pressure makes showering less refreshing and filling pots more time-consuming. It may be due to sediment build-up in faucets or showerheads. Clean or replace these to restore the invigorating water flow.

Clean showerheads and aerators regularly. If the problem persists, call a plumber to check for more significant issues.

Take care of the plumbing

Plumbing problems can be a nuisance, but with a bit of preventative maintenance, a homeowner can keep the system running as it should between maintenance calls. Many people prefer to have a plumber visit on an annual basis to perform a ‘wellness check’ on their plumbing. Checks, timely repairs, and a little DIY can prevent most issues. A professional plumber is just a call away for more substantial issues or questions.

With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company offering 24-hour emergency service. We provide lasting general plumbing, water leak detection and repair, toilet repair, pipe repair, and water heater repair or replacement solutions. Call 602-883-2787 today!