7 Plumbing Problems You Need To Fix ASAP

Even the most well-maintained home can develop a plumbing problem. Whether it’s something simple like a dripping faucet or a more complex problem like a sump pump failure, it’s important to address the issue immediately. Letting plumbing problems go unresolved could lead to higher water bills, more damage to your home, and more costly repairs.

This guide will discuss seven common plumbing problems, what causes them, and some practical plumbing solutions to repair the problem quickly.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common and urgent plumbing problems. If the clog is bad enough that the drain backs up into your home, it can cause a considerable mess, not to mention extensive water damage and sewage hazards.

Although some DIY methods can clear minor clogs, like using plungers, pipe snakes, or vinegar and baking soda solutions, it’s always best to call an expert for more serious clogs. Your plumber can provide drain cleaning services using equipment like power augers to clear clogs safely and thoroughly without damaging the pipes.

You can prevent clogs with these measures:

• Place strainers or baskets in sink and tub drains to catch food particles, hair, and other large debris.
• Throw away hardened cooking grease or oil instead of washing it down the drain.
• Flush only waste and toilet paper down the toilet — items like “flushable” wipes, hygiene products, and paper towels can easily cause toilet back-ups.

Leaky Faucets

A dripping faucet can be annoying, but it can also waste water, stain your fixtures, and lead to higher water bills. Most leaking faucets are caused by old or damaged seals or worn cartridges.

Though some faucets may not be repairable, most mid- to high-end models allow for part replacements. Simply installing a new O-ring, washer, stem, or cartridge may resolve the problem and save you money over a faucet replacement.

If you’re uncomfortable disassembling a faucet, call a qualified plumber. Most professional plumbers will have replacement parts in stock for the most popular faucet models, making repairs quick and easy.

You can prevent faucet leaks in the future by completing these tasks:

• Tighten faucet screws.
• Check for small cracks.
• Ensure safe water pressure.
• Clean off debris that can degrade the faucet.

Running Toilets

A constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a month, sending your water bills skyrocketing.

This is normally caused by a leaking flush valve or flapper valve. This part is relatively easy to replace, but if you’d rather have a professional complete the toilet repair or the replacement part didn’t resolve the issue, you need a plumber.

Act quickly to have your toilet repaired if:

• You notice water flow into the bowl even when you haven’t flushed it.
• The flapper shows signs of wear.
• You have to jiggle the handle to stop the toilet from running.
• Your toilet refills constantly or between flushes.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make it difficult to do things around the house, like cooking, cleaning, and bathing. It can also hinder the operation of appliances like washing machines and dishwashers or even damage them.

If water pressure is low at only one fixture, that fixture may need to be repaired or replaced. But if water pressure is low throughout the home, you may have problems with your main water line.

Mineral deposits or corrosion can accumulate on the inside of the pipes, restricting water flow and reducing pressure. A trusted plumber can replace the pipes.

To prevent future water pressure issues:

• Make sure your water pressure is set to between 40 and 80 psi.
• Install a water softener to remove hard water minerals.
• Install a water treatment system to neutralize acidic water.

Discolored Water

If your water is discolored or your fixtures have stains, it may be caused by corrosion, excess iron, large amounts of minerals, or bacteria in the water. It’s best to call a professional plumber to diagnose the problem properly.

A water treatment system can remove excess minerals, iron, or bacteria. Corrosion may indicate deeper plumbing problems, like a failing water heater or damaged pipes, which would need to be replaced.

To prevent discolored water and the issues it can cause, have your water tested periodically and install the appropriate water treatment system if needed.

No Hot Water

Hot water is essential for cooking, cleaning, and bathing, so when you have no hot water, it’s important to get it repaired as soon as possible.

• If you have an electric water heater, check that none of the circuit breakers have tripped and the thermostat is set correctly. If it still doesn’t work, the thermostat or heating elements may need to be replaced.
• If you have a gas water heater, make sure the breakers are on, the thermostat is set correctly, and the pilot light is lit, if it has one. The gas valve or thermostat may have failed if there’s still no hot water.
• If you have a tankless water heater, make sure it has power, no error codes are displayed, and that the thermostat is set properly. If the system still doesn’t produce hot water, the thermostat may be faulty, the heating elements may have failed on electric models, or the gas valve may have failed on gas models.

Call a professional to troubleshoot and repair your water heater to restore hot water to your home.

Sump Pump Failure

When your sump pump isn’t working, your home can be vulnerable to flooding and water damage during heavy storms. You should leave sump pump troubleshooting, repair, and replacement to the professionals to ensure your home is protected.

To prevent flooding and damage in the future, keep the sump pump basin free of silt and debris, and have the sump pump repaired or replaced as soon as you notice signs of a problem, such as:

• Constant operation
• Buzzing noises
• Leaks
• Unreliable performance

Schedule Plumbing Repairs in Indianapolis, IN

When you need an expert for full-service plumbing repairs in Indianapolis, call Northern Comfort Systems. We also offer water heater and water softener services in Terre Haute, Anderson, and Muncie.

We have over 20 years of industry experience and offer top-rated customer service with special offers, financing options, and 24/7 emergency repair availability.

What’s considered a plumbing emergency? Any plumbing problem that threatens to damage your home. We’re here to help when you need us, and all our services are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Call Northern Comfort Systems today to schedule plumbing repairs in Indianapolis or water heater repairs in Terre Haute, Anderson, or Muncie.