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Home plumbing issues often occur when you least expect it, regardless of how well your plumbing system is maintained. From minor issues like leaky faucets to burst pipes and everything in between, there’s never a good time for a plumbing mishap to occur. While plumbing problems can definitely be frustrating, the good news is that most issues are easily remedied with the help of a professional plumber. Knowing how to spot the signs of the most common plumbing problems can help ensure you’re prepared if and when an unexpected issue arises.

Troubleshooting the Most Common Plumbing Issues

Sewer System Backup

Sewer system backups are definitely one of the more frustrating plumbing issues, and almost always require the assistance of a professional. Signs your sewer system may be backing up include a strong odor of waste coming from toilets and drains, toilets not flushing properly, and sewage backing up into sinks and tubs. Tree root blockages, main sewer clogs, and corroding, broken sewer lines are the most common causes of backup. If the sewer line is located directly on your property, contact your Arlington, TX plumber as soon as possible to remedy the situation.

Low Water Pressure 

If you live in an older home, low water pressure may occur due to aging pipes that have corroded over time, or sediment build-up on aerators. Both issues are easy to fix with the help of an Arlington, TX plumber, and you can also clean your own showerheads and faucets with common household staples such as vinegar and liquid soap.

Leaking Pipes

Leaking pipes often occur during the colder seasons and usually start at the pipe joints. Worn out, older pipes are more at risk than newer pipe systems, and the cold temperatures can cause the metal to expand and tear, leading to water leakage. It is always important to consult with a plumbing professional at the first sign of a leaking pipe, as they can lead to water damage and create a moist breeding ground for germ-carrying pests such as cockroaches.

Failing Water Heaters

Water heaters can experience a host of problems, ranging from minor issues such as blown out pilot lights to more serious problems such as leaking tanks and faulty heating elements. Pooling water beneath the water heater most often indicates an issue with the tank, while little hot water is usually linked to the heating element. Water heaters contain multiple parts that are all required to work together in order for the unit to work efficiently, so it is always recommended to consult with a professional plumber to prevent additional damage by attempting to fix the issue on your own.

Constantly Running Toilets

A constantly running toilet is not only annoying to the ears, it also contributes to excessive water loss when the issue is not remedied as soon as possible. In most cases, running toilets are due to loose flapper valves, and this is generally an easy repair job. However, it’s a good idea to have a plumber assess the situation, as running toilets can also be caused by silent leaks, which can quickly lead to high water bills and future damage if not handled quickly.

Slow Draining Sink or Shower Drain

Clogs are the most common culprits for slow draining sinks or shower drains. In the kitchen, anything from banana peels to excess grease poured down the drain can lead to blockages, which in turn can cause the sink to drain slowly, or in more serious cases, back up into the basin. If your shower drain is draining slowly or you notice a pool of water in the tub following a shower or bath, the clog in the drain can be contributed to hair, liquid soap buildup, or shampoo that coats the drain. Over-the-counter drain cleaners often work well to break up blockages so your water can run smoothly again, but you may wish to consult with a plumber if the water drains particularly slow or not at all. Additionally, drain cleaners can be harsh on pipes and must be used as directed to prevent damage or accidental corrosion.

Dripping Faucets

While many people overlook dripping faucets as a simple annoyance, the reality is that each drip can run up your water bill, and it may also be a sign of a larger problem. If replacing the washer on the faucet does not remedy the issue, your leaky faucet could be due to internal sediment buildup, defective gaskets, or corroded pipes, which should be assessed by a professional plumber.

Clogged Toilet

The first sign of a clogged toilet is when water fills the bowl following a flush and rises to the top. In some cases, the water just reaches the edge without overflowing, but clogs can also cause the water to spill over, which can lead to waste and water on your bathroom floor. Clogs are typically caused by excess paper or human waste. Another common mistake people make is assuming sanitary wipes are flushable. Unfortunately, sanitary wipes are thicker than toilet paper and don’t break down as easily, and this often leads to blockages that aren’t easy to break up with a standard plunger. If you’ve attempted to use a plunger with no luck, another potential cause of a clogged toilet may be tree roots in the sewer line, which require the assistance of a professional plumber.

Schedule an Appointment with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

If you’re in need of a professional plumber to assess your current plumbing needs, give Benjamin Franklin Plumbing a call, or set up a chat via their website. Plumbing professionals are available seven days a week to easily coordinate with busy schedules. Contact the Arlington, TX office at 817-478-4119.