Your plumbing system is made up of many small components that simply make everyday life easier. While this setup is quite convenient most of the time, it also means that even a small plumbing problem can bring the entire household screeching to a halt. Leaky faucets, malfunctioning hot water heaters, clogged drains, and more — there are countless issues that can pop up with your pipes, drains, or sewer line and throw a wrench into your plans.
As professional plumbers, we’ve seen our fair share of common plumbing problems in houses throughout Ontario, but some arise more frequently than others. Here’s what you need to know about the five most common plumbing problems, what you can do to solve them, and when it’s time to call a plumber for help!
Clogged Drains
Ah, the humble drain clog…definitely one of the most common plumbing problems! Even though your average sink, shower drain, or toilet clog can usually be rectified with a plunger and a little elbow grease, dealing with a clogged drain can definitely put a damper on your day. Here are a few solutions to pull out of your back pocket next time you’re face-to-face with a stubborn clog:
Plunger Power
Start with the classic plunger. For a clogged toilet bowl, bathroom sink, or tub drain, ensure there’s enough water to cover the plunger’s rubber head, and then give it a few firm pushes to dislodge the clog.
Drain Snake Charmer
For especially stubborn clogs, drain snakes (also called plumbing snakes) can reach deep into the pipes to pull out hair, food particles, and other debris that might be causing the blockage. Most hardware stores and big-box retailers sell plumbing snakes, so it shouldn’t be hard to get ahold of this simple plumbing tool. Keep it in your toolbox once you’re finished to prevent future clogs.
Some Like It Hot
Pouring boiling water directly into the drain can sometimes dissolve drain clogs caused by fat oil, or grease or buildup, especially in kitchen sinks with garbage disposal units. Be careful with porcelain or PVC pipes, as they can crack with extreme heat.
Science Fair Volcano
Rather than using chemical drain cleaners, which can harm your pipes even when used sparingly, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the slow drain. The fizzing reaction can help break up minor clogs. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before flushing with hot water.
Call In Backup (Pun Intended!)
If the plunger, drain snake, or baking soda does its job to dislodge that clump of toilet paper or hairball in your pipes, you can return to your routine peacefully . In some cases, however, clogged drains can signify other common plumbing problems lurking within your system. If multiple drains are clogged at once or you’ve noticed the same drain pipe running into issues over and over, it may be time to call a plumber. We’ll get to the bottom of things and restore water flow to your home.
Once the clog has been defeated, do your due diligence. Prevent toilet clogs in the future by flushing responsibly (only waste and TP — no baby wipes, sanitary products, or paper towels!) and having our team clean out your pipes, drains, and sewer lines at least once per year.
Leaky Faucets
A leaky faucet, wasting water drip by tiny drip, is a little nuisance that can add up to a big headache — and high water bill! While that small trickle might not seem like much, over time they can waste a significant amount of water and cause damage to your fixtures. Here’s how to solve plumbing problems involving leaking faucets:
Leaking faucets are often caused by worn-out washers, gaskets, or seals. Over time, these small components can degrade, leading to those annoying drips. Other common causes include corrosion in the valve seat, loose parts, or issues with the O-rings.
Most dripping faucet problems can be fixed with a quick DIY repair. Start by turning off the water supply and disassembling the faucet. Replace worn-out connection point seals or gaskets with new ones from your local hardware store. If you’re still dealing with dripping faucets after replacing these parts, you might have a more serious plumbing issue, like corrosion or leaking pipes, which requires the assistance of a licensed plumber. Give us a call, and we’ll be there ASAP!
To prevent future leaks, avoid over-tightening faucet handles, as this can wear out the components faster. Regularly check and replace any worn parts, and invest in quality faucets that are built to last. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping those drips at bay!
Running Toilets
Is your toilet running? Nonstop, we mean — most toilets are running at least some of the time, but constantly running toilets can spell trouble for your plumbing system and your wallet, not to mention the annoying sound it constantly makes. Here’s how to keep that running toilet from running up your water bill:
A constantly running toilet is often caused by a faulty flapper, the rubber component that controls water flow from the tank to the bowl. If the flapper valve doesn’t seal properly, water will continuously leak into the bowl. Other common causes include an improperly adjusted float, a fill valve that isn’t shutting off, or a loose or broken chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper.
Start by checking the flapper. If it’s worn or not sealing correctly, replace it — it’s a simple and inexpensive fix. Next, check that the chain isn’t loose or tangled, then ensure the float is set at the right level — it should allow the fill tube to add water to the tank until it’s just below the overflow tube.
Regularly check the fill valve, flapper, and other components inside your toilet tank to ensure everything is in good working order. Having our team replace parts at the first sign of wear can prevent a minor issue from turning into a major headache. Also, avoid using chemical cleaners in the toilet tank, as they can deteriorate the rubber valve seat and other components over time. A little routine maintenance can keep your toilet running smoothly — and only when it’s supposed to!
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can turn even the simplest tasks, like showering or washing dishes, into frustrating experiences. If your water pressure has taken a dip, it’s important to get to the root of the problem quickly. Here’s what you need to know about solving low water pressure issues:
Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of issues. Common culprits include hard water mineral buildup in pipes and faucet aerators, which can restrict water flow. A leaky pipe or malfunctioning pressure regulator can also create a plumbing problem by allowing in outside air pressure.
Start by checking for leaks and having professional plumbers repair them. If your faucets have low water pressure but the rest of your plumbing seems to be working properly, unscrew the aerators and clean out any debris or mineral deposits. For more widespread low pressure, have our team flush your pipes to clear out mineral buildup, replace any corroded sections, check your pressure regulator, and inspect your entire system for hidden water or sewer line problems.
To prevent low water pressure, regularly clean your faucet aerators and showerheads to keep them free of buildup. Installing a water softener can help minimize mineral deposits in your pipes if you live in an area with hard water. Additionally, scheduling routine inspections with a professional plumber can help catch and fix potential issues before they lead to bigger problems. Keeping your system in good condition will ensure strong, consistent water pressure throughout your home.
Water Heater Woes
A cold shower is the worst type of surprise, and hot water heater issues can disrupt your daily routine in the most unwelcome way. Whether it’s a lack of hot water or strange noises from the tank, water heater problems need attention. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Water heater problems can stem from a variety of sources. Common reasons why water heaters fail include a malfunctioning thermostat, mineral deposits in the tank, excessive pressure buildup, or a failing heating element. Older water heaters are also more prone to issues like corrosion, which can lead to leaks or reduced efficiency. In some cases, the problem might be as simple as the pilot light going out.
For minor issues, like a pilot light that won’t stay lit, you might be able to relight it yourself following the manufacturer’s instructions. If mineral deposit buildup is the culprit, having our team drain and flush the tank can help restore efficiency. We can also replace a faulty thermostat or heating element, tighten or replace a loose water service line, or even install an entirely new water heater unit if your equipment is on its last legs.
Routine maintenance is key to preventing water heater woes. Flushing the tank annually can help prevent sediment from building up, while regularly checking the thermostat, heating elements, and pressure reducing valve can help you catch issues early. If you have an older water heater, have it inspected by professionals at least once per year to prevent the possibility of a tank rupture, which is a serious household plumbing emergency.
Got Plumbing Problems? Call a Plumber Now!
Dealing with plumbing issues is never fun, but knowing the most common plumbing problems and solutions can make a world of difference. Most plumbing headaches, from a constantly running toilet to a dripping faucet, are fixable with the right approach, a little know-how, and a phone for those times when you need to call a plumber.
Don’t forget that regular maintenance and prompt repairs are also crucial to keeping your plumbing system in top shape. By taking care of minor issues like clogged drains, water heater inefficiency, and dripping faucets before they become major plumbing problems, you can save yourself time, money, and the stress of unexpected emergencies. A well-maintained plumbing system not only ensures your home runs smoothly but also provides peace of mind knowing that everything is working as it should.
If you’re facing any of these common plumbing issues, are interested in more plumbing maintenance tips, or simply want to ensure your system is in the best condition possible, don’t hesitate to reach out to PR Plumbing in Ontario. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help with all your plumbing needs, whether you need clogged drain repair service or water heater replacement. Call us today to schedule an appointment and keep your home’s plumbing running like a PR!