Plumbing issues can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. From dripping faucets to clogged drains, small problems can quickly turn into expensive repairs if not addressed in time. At Simply Plumbing and Gas, we’ve seen it all! Here are the top five most common plumbing problems and how you can prevent them so you know when it’s time to call in the pros.
1. Leaky Faucets & Pipes
Why It Happens: Over time, washers, seals, or O-rings inside your faucet wear out, leading to leaks. Similarly, pipe joints can degrade, causing hidden leaks.
Prevention Tips:
- Regularly check under sinks for moisture or drips.
- Replace worn-out washers or seals as soon as you notice a drip.
- Insulate pipes in cold weather to prevent bursting.
When to Call a Plumber: If the leak persists after replacing parts, or if you notice increased water bills, you might have a hidden pipe leak that requires professional repair.
2. Clogged Drains & Toilets
Why It Happens: Hair, soap scum, grease, and food debris can build up in drains over time. Flushing non-flushable items down the toilet is another major culprit.
Prevention Tips:
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
- Avoid pouring grease or coffee grounds down the sink.
- Only flush toilet paper! No wipes, feminine products, or paper towels.
When to Call a Plumber: If you’ve tried a plunger and a drain cleaner with no success, you might have a deep blockage that requires professional drain cleaning.
3. Low Water Pressure
Why It Happens: Mineral buildup in pipes, leaking pipes, or problems with your main water line can reduce water pressure.
Prevention Tips:
- Regularly clean faucet aerators to remove mineral buildup.
- Check for leaks around your home and fix them quickly.
- Install a water softener if you live in an area with hard water.
When to Call a Plumber: If your whole house has low water pressure, it could be due to a hidden pipe leak or a municipal water supply issue.
4. Water Heater Problems
Why It Happens: Over time, sediment buildup inside your water heater can reduce efficiency and lead to issues like **no hot water or strange noise coming from the tank.
Prevention Tips:
• Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment.
• Check the temperature setting (it should be around 120°F).
• Replace the anode rod every few years to prevent rust.
When to Call a Plumber: If your water heater is over 10 years old, leaks, or isn’t heating properly, it might be time for a water heater repair or replacement.
5. Running Toilets
Why It Happens: A faulty flapper valve or an issue with the float mechanism can cause constant running water, wasting hundreds of gallons per day.
Prevention Tips:
• Check and replace the flapper valve if it’s worn out.
• Adjust the float to ensure it stops the water at the right level.
• Check for silent leaks by adding food coloring to the tank—if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
When to Call a Plumber: If replacing the flapper doesn’t stop the issue, there could be a bigger problem with the internal plumbing of the toilet.
If you’re dealing with any of these plumbing problems, don’t wait until it gets worse! At Simply Plumbing and Gas, we employ some of the best plumbers in Charleston, SC to provide expert, affordable, and reliable plumbing repairs, installations, and gas services in the area. We are the top local plumbers near you!
Simply put, call Simply Plumbing and Gas for Expert Plumbing Services in Charleston!
Your home deserves the best plumbing care—let’s fix it right the first time!
