Most Common Plumbing Issues and When to Call a Plumber

When you have the need for plumbing repair, your first reaction may be to try to fix it on your own. You need to know how to identify the problem, what to look for to resolve the issue, and when to hand off the problem to a professional with more experience handling the issue. Here are the top 4 most common plumbing issues and what you should know about each one:

Leaky Pipes

Whether the leaky pipe is under your sink or in your utility room, you should fix the problem as soon as possible. The water can cause your water bills to increase and it can damage your personal possessions. The most common cause for this problem stems from a u-joint that needs to be replaced. If you have the tools and know-how to do this, you can do it on your own. Otherwise, you should contact a professional. If you try this and it doesn’t work, you could tighten the hardware of your pipes or have a professional diagnose the problem for you.

Dripping Faucets

Similar to leaky pipes, a dripping faucet can increase your water bill. It can also be an annoyance. To attempt to fix the problem, start by checking the seal from the washer in the faucet. You may need to replace the washer. If you have a ceramic faucet, your sink would have a ceramic plate to replace rather than a washer. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, try replacing the valve seat. If neither of these fixes work, contact a plumber to determine where the problem lies in your faucet. 

Clogged Drains

To fix a clogged drain in your sink, toilet, tub, or shower, you should start by using a plunger. If this doesn’t work, there may be something in the way. An auger can be a great tool to help retrieve hair, debris, and other objects from the drain. If this doesn’t work, the clog may be located too far down your drain or there may be another issue that needs to be addressed. Contact your plumber to check it out and determine the best approach to fixing the problem. 

Running Toilet

You may find yourself jiggling the toilet handle on a regular basis to stop the toilet from running. When you allow the toilet to run, the sound might be an annoyance but it will raise your water bills. More likely than not, the problem could be caused by a worn flapper valve, float apparatus, or fill tube. You can replace these parts to get the toilet to stop running. If this doesn’t work, you may have a leak that needs to be addressed. You can put a few drops of food coloring into the toilet to find out where the leak is coming from. If you need help stopping the toilet from running or clogging the leak, contact a plumber right away.

If you have one of these issues, you should have your plumbing repaired as soon as possible. Aaron Plumbing, Heating and Air can help you diagnose the problem and repair it as quickly as possible, so you don’t have to worry about your water bills and other plumbing issues.