When your home’s water supply goes down or there is a broken pipe outside that you cannot fix yourself, you need a plumber. However, not all plumbing problems are as easy to fix as the basic ones listed above. These issues can be a little more complicated and may require the help of a professional. Fortunately, with so many different plumbing problems out there, we can help you narrow down our list to just the ones you need assistance with. From frozen pipes to sewer line issues, we’ve got you covered with these common plumbing problems that may arise during any given homeownership experience.

Burst or leaking pipes

This is probably the most common plumbing problem because of the number of homes that have pipe in them, and the number of pipes that have been installed since most houses were built. Burst or leaking pipes can be caused by a variety of things, and can range from a broken valve, a faulty joint, or simply a build-up of pressure in the line. If you suspect that you have a leaking pipe, the first thing to do is shut off the main water supply valve. This will help you pinpoint the exact location of the problem and make it easier to fix. If you notice a significant drop in water pressure after you shut off the main valve, you know that the problem is almost certainly on the other side of the house. This can be a serious safety hazard, so you should call a plumber as soon as possible. A leaking pipe will also cause damage to your home’s structure and belongings as water seeps into the walls and floors and causes rot and mold growth.

Toilet leaks

This can be a tricky one, as there are so many different ways that a toilet can leak. The most common cause is a broken or worn-out flapper. This is a piece of rubber that sits in the tank and covers the outlet pipe. It allows water to flow into the bowl, but prevents it from coming back up through the outlet. If this part becomes damaged or breaks, it can cause gallons of water to leak from the toilet tank each time you flush. Another common problem is that the toilet may be set up in a way that allows water to flow back into the toilet bowl. This can happen if the toilet is set up with a fill valve that is set too high. These problems can be tricky to fix, but they can also be prevented with regular maintenance. Be sure to check the toilet’s water level and flush soundly several times each month to avoid these problems.

Frozen condensate line

Frozen condensate lines are a problem that can strike any house, regardless of its age. The condensate line is essentially the same as the cold water line, but it runs through the walls and ceilings. If this line freezes, the pipes in your house will be exposed to extremely cold temperatures. This can cause pipes to crack and lead to water damage. To fix this problem, you will need to thaw the line using a hair dryer. Once the line is thawed, you can dig up the pipe and replace the section that has been frozen. Be sure to thaw the line outside of the house, away from any other pipes, and never use a torch to thaw the line. This can cause an explosion that can seriously damage your home.

Drain or sewer line clog

If you suspect that your sewer or drain line is clogged, the best thing to do is not panic. This is a common mistake that many people make when they smell a sewer or drain line clog. This is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong with your pipes, but instead that you need to clear out some of the debris that is blocking the pipes. There are a few different methods for unclogging pipes, but the best way to do it is with a plumbing snake. This is a long, flexible tube that can be used to manually clear out most clogged drains and sewer lines. If you have a clogged sewer line, the best way to clear it out is to open the manhole, or the access point for the sewer line, and crawl inside with a snake. You will need to shut off the water supply to the house before you begin, and be sure to wear a mask to protect yourself from the gasses that are released from the sewage. Once the clogged line has been cleared, you will need to clean the pipes with a small amount of baking soda and water. This can save you from the need to replace your sewer or drain line, but it is important to only use baking soda once the line has been disinfected.

Water heater issues

If your water heater has been running for a long time, it is likely time for a new one. However, this doesn’t mean that you should just throw away the old water heater. Many times, water heaters can be repaired, but it isn’t worth the cost of a new one. This is especially true if the water heater has been installed in the basement, where it is exposed to extreme temperatures. If you notice that your water heater is leaking or is running excessively, it is important to fix the problem as soon as possible. This will not only help save money on your water bills, but it will also help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. If you notice that there is a large amount of sediment in your water, this is likely a sign that your water heater is about to fail. This is a sign that you need to get a new water heater installed as soon as possible.

Conclusion

These are just some of the most common plumbing problems that could arise in an average home. Unfortunately, no house is completely immune to these problems, but there are some things that you can do to minimize the risk. First, make sure that the water heater is in good working order by regularly checking for leaks or other problems. It is also a good idea to have a plumber look at your pipes before you sell your house so that you can make sure that they are in good condition.