Plumbing issues are something every homeowner dreads, but the good news is that many of these issues can be prevented with a little bit of maintenance and awareness. Understanding the common plumbing repairs and knowing how to prevent them can save you both time and money. In this blog, we’ll explore the seven most frequent plumbing repairs homeowners face and offer practical tips to help you avoid them.
Common Plumbing Issues Homeowners Encounter
From leaky faucets to clogged drains, many plumbing issues can disrupt your daily life. Let’s dive into the most common problems and how to prevent them.
Leaky Faucets: The Silent Water Waster

Leaky faucets are one of the most common plumbing issues in homes. The constant dripping may seem like a minor annoyance, but over time, it wastes a significant amount of water, driving up your utility bill. Faucets tend to leak due to worn-out washers, seals, or O-rings. Here is some prevention tips:
- Inspect your faucets regularly for wear and tear.
- Replace washers or seals as soon as they show signs of damage.
- Avoid over-tightening the handles, as this can damage the internal components.
Clogged Drains: A Nuisance That Can Lead to Bigger Problems

Clogged drains are often caused by a buildup of hair, grease, food particles, and soap scum. When left unattended, they can lead to slow drainage or even backups, which can damage your plumbing system. How to prevent it:
- Use drain guards to catch hair and debris.
- Avoid pouring grease down the kitchen sink.
- Flush your drains with hot water once a week to keep them clear.
- Schedule professional drain cleaning services periodically.
Running Toilets: Wasting Water and Money
A running toilet is usually caused by a faulty flapper valve or fill valve. When the internal components fail, water continuously flows, which can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. To avoid this, you can:
- Regularly inspect the components inside your toilet tank.
- If you notice water running, replace the faulty part immediately.
- Don’t ignore the sound of running water, as it could lead to more significant issues.
Low Water Pressure: A Frustrating Problem
Low water pressure can result from a number of issues, including clogged aerators, corroded pipes, or leaks in the plumbing system. It can make everyday tasks, like showering or washing dishes, a real chore. Here is some tips for this situation:
- Clean the aerators on faucets and showerheads to remove mineral deposits.
- Schedule regular plumbing inspections to identify and fix leaks.
- Replace old, corroded pipes to restore water pressure.
Leaking Pipes: Potential for Major Damage
Leaking pipes are often caused by corrosion, high water pressure, or damage to the pipes. Over time, even small leaks can lead to significant water damage and mold growth in your home.
- Regularly inspect exposed pipes for signs of leaks or corrosion.
- Monitor your water bill for any sudden increases, which could indicate a hidden leak.
- Ensure pipes are properly insulated during the colder months to prevent freezing and bursting.
Sump Pump Failure: A Basement’s Worst Nightmare
Sump pumps are designed to keep basements dry, but they can fail due to a power outage, a clogged discharge line, or simply due to old age.
- Test your sump pump regularly, especially before rainy seasons.
- Install a backup power source in case of outages.
- Keep the discharge line clear of debris and ice.
Water Heater Issues: No Hot Water?

Water heaters can fail due to sediment buildup, thermostat issues, or worn-out heating elements. A malfunctioning water heater can leave you without hot water when you need it most.
- Flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment.
- Check the temperature setting on the thermostat to ensure it’s not set too high.
- Schedule annual inspections to check for potential issues.
Timely Repairs: Avoid Bigger Problems Down the Line
While these plumbing issues are common, they don’t have to disrupt your life if addressed early. Timely repairs can prevent more significant damage to your home and save you from costly replacements. If you notice any of the signs mentioned, it’s important to call a professional for plumbing repairs. Armacom Plumbing offers comprehensive residential plumbing services, including emergency plumbing repairs and pipe repair.
Contact Armacom Today to Prevent or Fix Your Plumbing Issues
Plumbing repairs can be a hassle, but many of the most common issues are avoidable with regular maintenance and awareness. By following the tips outlined above, you can prevent leaky faucets, clogged drains, running toilets, and more from causing bigger problems. When in doubt, always seek help from local plumbers like Armacom to keep your plumbing system in top condition.