Common Plumbing Issues that Require Professional Assistance

A clogged toilet is the most common plumbing emergency.

Plumbing problems come in all forms, from a minor water leak to a major sewer backup that could cause significant damage to personal property. When an unexpected plumbing situation arises, many homeowners may want to handle the issue independently to save time and cost; however, plumbing is one area where skimping on professional help could cause more harm than good. Watch out for the following common plumbing issues that should always be repaired professionally.

Clogged toilets

A clogged toilet is the most common plumbing emergency. Sometimes, a toilet can easily be unclogged with a plunger. However, if attempts at clearing a clog have repeatedly failed, it's best to leave the job to an experienced plumber. The issue could be that an obstruction is more complex than a household plunger can fix or that the clog is further down the plumbing line than expected.

Clogged drains

When a drain is clogged, using a plumbing-based chemical or snake to remove the clog is most homeowners' go-to solution; however, this approach can have problems. Often, using harmful chemicals worsens matters, as specific chemical cleaning formulas may lead to the gradual corrosion of the pipe lining. Additionally, a plumbing snake could cause damage to the drain pipes, resulting in costly repairs. Instead, call a professional plumber with the experience and tools to remove the clog without risking further damage.

Leaky faucets

Leaky faucets are a common plumbing issue. When a faucet drips constantly, the produced wastewater increases the monthly water bills. A single leaky faucet can waste many gallons of water annually. Fixing a leaky faucet can be complex; locating the leak can be difficult, and special tools are often needed to remove plumbing connections and parts. For this issue, hiring professional help is best to ensure the job is done quickly and correctly.

Low water pressure

Low water pressure in kitchen or bathroom sink faucets could be caused by debris buildup in the faucet's aerator, which can easily be repaired by simply unscrewing the aerator, cleaning off the debris buildup, and screwing the part back onto the faucet. However, many low water pressure problems are caused by severe issues like fractured pipes, major water leaks, or eroded water lines. If a thorough aerator cleaning doesn't return the water pressure to normal, it's essential to call a plumber who can assess the matter and determine the proper course of action.

A lack of hot water

A lack of hot water is one of the most frustrating plumbing issues, especially when washing dishes or showering. First, check the water heater thermostat to see if the temperature is too low; if this isn’t the issue, there may be a broken heating component, sediment deposits, corrupted gas lines, or water line cracks.

Water heater connections include gas and water line hookups that can be tricky to handle. Repairing a water heater involves knowledge of intricate pipework that could cause severe flooding if mishandled. Due to the risky nature of gas leaks and the plumbing complexities of water heaters, the best thing to do when experiencing a loss of hot water is to schedule a professional plumbing service.

Frozen pipes

Frozen pipes are a common occurrence during chilly fall and winter months. Many homeowners assume the best remedy for a frozen pipe is to melt away the frost with a heat source. However, if mishandled, a pipe can become further damaged. If pipes become frozen, leaving the pipe-thawing process to a professional plumber is best to avoid causing unintentional further damage.

Garbage disposal issues

A garbage disposal performs heavy-duty work regularly and may eventually stop functioning correctly. Check that the circuit breaker supplies power if the garbage disposal isn’t working. Also, remove any debris or foreign objects blocking the device. It’s best to consult a professional if the issue isn't unresolved. A trained plumber is aware of additional methods that can be used to unjam, repair, or replace the garbage disposal.

Sewer system backup

Sewer system backups can quickly become very complex. If there are multiple clogged plumbing lines or toilets and an unpleasant odor, the culprit is likely a backup in the sewer system.

A sewer system clog could be due to large items, such as feminine products, diapers, napkins, or facial tissues being flushed down the toilet. Additionally, tree roots could have invaded the pipes, causing significant cracks. Sewer system backup can also be caused by breakage or collapse from older cast iron or clay plumbing lines, which may have deteriorated over time.

Responsibility for dealing with a sewer system backup depends on the location of the blockage. If the blockage is out on a public road, the local water company may offer to fix the damage. If the blockage is on personal property, the homeowner must hire a plumber to locate the source and repair the sewer system. Regardless, this issue must be handled by a professional plumber.

Gas line installation or replacement

Gas line installations or replacements are among the most dangerous components of the home to work with, so they should never be handled by individual homeowners. Only licensed and experienced plumbers should handle these projects, as they know the proper methods and safety precautions needed to resolve the issue.

Plumbing vent clogs

Plumbing vents typically exit a home through the roof. Over time, debris can create clogs in plumbing vents. This issue requires the proper tools and skills to go onto the roof and remove the clog, which the average homeowner does not possess. To avoid injury or causing further problems, contact a professional who can swiftly remove the clog and restore the plumbing system to working order.

All homes eventually face plumbing issues. Sometimes, homeowners are lucky and can resolve the issue independently; however, these issues can be easily exacerbated by one small error, so it’s almost always best to contact a professional plumber to handle the issue.

If you need a licensed, bonded, experienced plumber for plumbing installation and service in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Ahwatukee or San Tan Valley call Norfleet Family Plumbing Heating and Air at 480-681-1764.