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12 Most Common Plumbing Problems

plumbing problems

Don’t put up with stubborn plumbing. Instead, rely on expert plumbers in Bainbridge, GA, who can quickly identify and resolve problems. Learn more about the most common plumbing issues you might experience at your home or business.

1. Leaking Faucets Waste (a Lot) of Water

One of the most common plumbing problems is a leaky faucet. As faucets and shower heads age, the rubber washer inside these fixtures may wear out.

The occasional drip may not seem like a big problem, but it can lead to a higher water bill. Some leaky faucets are repairable, while others require replacing the fixture.

2. Overwhelmed Septic Tank? Check for a Running Toilet

A running toilet continues to try to fill the bowl with water. The water going into the toilet tank may leak directly into the bowl because the flapper seal stops working. You’ll probably hear a gurgling sound. If the flapper seal is not causing the problem, a plumber might need to replace the tank or other parts.

3. Slow Drains Can Cause Sink Overflows: Don’t Ignore Them

Slow or clogged drains could cause water to flow over the top of the sink, creating a significant mess. A slow-running drain might generate a foul odor or cause staining in the sink.

A plumber can find the source of the clog and safely remove it. If you frequently use drain-cleaning chemicals, you could damage the pipes while only receiving temporary relief.

4. Toilet Won’t Flush? Always Check the Water Supply First

Having a toilet that won’t flush may require replacing parts in the tank. A licensed plumber can fix plumbing problems like this, although some handy homeowners can perform a DIY repair.

Always check the water supply coming from the floor or wall into the toilet tank. If the water supply is turned off, the toilet might stop flushing.

5. Some Toilet Clogs Are Too Much for an Ordinary Plunger

When someone clogs the toilet, you increase the risk of water flowing over the bowl and leaking onto the floor. If a child flushed a toy down the toilet, a plunger might not fix the issue. You may need a plumber to remove the object.

6. When Your Water Heater Delivers Icy Temperatures, Call for Help

Water heater issues are more common than you might think. They can suffer a tank leak or rupture that might flood your basement or utility room. They could also lose electrical power or their access to the natural gas supply.

Plumbers can repair many water heater issues. However, if you have an appliance that’s about 10 years old, it might be more cost effective to replace it with a new one.

7. Mold Under the Sink Is a Sure Sign of a Leaky Pipe

You should not ignore plumbing problems like leaky pipes under a sink. A leak under a sink could indicate a problem with the drain or the water supply pipe. If you fail to repair the leak, you may notice mold growth under the sink, leading to cabinet damage and unwanted odors.

8. Clogged Garbage Disposals Equal Overflowing Sinks

Garbage disposals can clog when you place certain types of debris down the sink. Potato peels and eggshells could cause a blocked disposal, allowing water to back up in the sink.

A plumber can disassemble the garbage disposal and remove the obstruction, returning the appliance to normal operation.

9. Loud Noises in Your Plumbing? Check for Air Leaks

Noisy plumbing may be a sign of a significant problem with the system. You might hear banging or whooshing sounds that indicate air inside the pipes. The plumbing might have a stuck valve that allows air to enter, leading to the racket.

Plumbers can inspect the pipes to find the source of the problem and recommend a solution.

10. If You Have a Flooded Basement, Sump Pumps May Be To Blame

A malfunctioning sump pump is one of the plumbing problems that can cause flooding issues in a basement if you don’t call a plumber immediately. The plumber will determine whether the issue is fixable or requires a replacement. Sump pumps may last a decade before needing replacement.

Sump pumps need regular maintenance to prevent malfunctions, which a local plumber is prepared to deliver.

11. Backed-Up Sewers Bring Bacteria and Odors

A backed-up sewer is a problem that requires the help of an experienced plumber. If sewage flows backward out of floor drains, it could damage the flooring or walls. You might have an unpleasant odor that lingers even after cleaning up the sewage.

To fix a backed-up sewer, try removing the clog or replacing the sewer pipe. Plumbers can inspect the sewer pipe and find the source of the problem.

12. Do You Need Emergency Plumbers? You Do If You Have a Burst Pipe

Burst pipes represent a rupture or crack in your home’s water supply pipes. This is a serious plumbing problem because of the significant volume of water that can leak out of the pipes. The plumber may recommend cutting off the supply of water as quickly as possible.

Hiring a plumber who provides emergency service is important when you have a burst pipe. You must fix this issue before it causes long-term damage to your floors, ceilings, and walls.

After fixing the burst pipe, the plumber might recommend a plumbing replacement. If the plumbing pipes are old and beginning to rust, replacement is a good idea. Newer materials resist rust, which should give you more consistent performance.

Call Cooper’s Plumbing & Air for Plumbing Repairs You Can Trust

When you are experiencing plumbing problems, you want the issue fixed quickly and correctly the first time. Don’t try DIY plumbing. Instead, trust Cooper’s Plumbing & Air and our nearly 30 years of experience serving our clients. Whether you need a repair appointment or 24/7 emergency service, we are ready to help.

We serve southwest Georgia with a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our work. To schedule a service call, contact us today at (866) 464-7132