Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing problems at home. You might think it’s harmless, but a small drip can waste gallons of water every day. The main cause is usually a worn-out washer or seal inside the faucet.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink.
- Use a wrench to remove the handle and faucet head.
- Check the washer or O-ring. If it’s damaged or worn, replace it.
- Reassemble the parts and turn the water back on.
If the leak doesn’t stop, the issue may be deeper inside the valve or pipe. That’s when you should contact professional plumbing services to fix it properly.
Clogged Drains
A slow or clogged drain is another headache for homeowners. Hair, soap, grease, and food waste are the usual culprits. You might notice water draining slowly or not at all.
How to fix it:
- Start with boiling water. Pour it slowly down the drain to melt away grease buildup.
- If that doesn’t work, mix baking soda and vinegar. Let it bubble for 10–15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- You can also use a drain snake or plunger to pull out the blockage.
Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can damage your pipes. If the drain keeps clogging, it might be a bigger problem deeper in the line. In that case, hire plumbing services to check for pipe damage or buildup.
Running Toilet
Does your toilet keep running even after you flush? That constant sound isn’t just annoying—it wastes a lot of water. The issue is often a faulty flapper, float, or fill valve.
How to fix it:
- Remove the toilet tank lid.
- Check the flapper (the rubber piece at the bottom). If it’s not sealing properly, replace it.
- Adjust the float so that the water level stops at the correct height.
- If the fill valve is broken, replace it using a kit from your local hardware store.
If your toilet keeps running after these fixes, professional plumbing services can diagnose the problem and replace worn-out parts efficiently.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make showers and dishwashing frustrating. It often happens because of mineral buildup in the aerator, corroded pipes, or hidden leaks.
How to fix it:
- First, unscrew the faucet aerator and clean it. You can soak it in vinegar to remove any mineral deposits.
- Check if the problem happens with all faucets or just one. If it’s just one, the aerator is usually the issue.
- If it affects your whole home, it might be a leak or pipe corrosion. That’s when you should call expert plumbing services to inspect and repair the pipes.
Leaky Pipes
A leaking pipe can quickly turn into a big problem if ignored. You might notice damp spots on walls, ceilings, or under sinks.
How to fix it temporarily:
- Turn off the main water supply immediately.
- Dry the area and wrap the leak with rubber, tape, or a pipe repair clamp.
- These are short-term fixes. You’ll still need to call professional plumbing services to replace or properly seal the damaged pipe.
Ignoring leaks can lead to mold growth and costly water damage, so act fast.
Water Heater Issues
If your water isn’t getting hot or takes too long, the water heater might be to blame. Common issues include sediment buildup or a broken heating element.
What to check:
- Look at the thermostat setting. Make sure it’s around 120°F.
- Drain the tank once a year to remove sediment. This helps improve performance.
- If there’s a leak or strange noise, call a professional. Water heaters are tricky and can be dangerous to fix without proper skills.
A licensed expert from reliable plumbing services can help with repairs or replacements safely.
Frozen Pipes (Winter Problem)
In cold weather, pipes can freeze and even burst. You might notice little or no water coming from your taps during winter.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the main water supply right away.
- Use a hair dryer or warm towel to gently thaw the pipe. Never use an open flame.
- Once thawed, check for cracks or leaks.
To prevent frozen pipes, insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip slightly on very cold nights. If a pipe bursts, shut off the water and contact emergency plumbing services immediately.
Garbage Disposal Not Working
If your garbage disposal isn’t turning on or making strange noises, it might be jammed or overloaded.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the power to the unit.
- Use a wrench to manually turn the disposal and loosen any stuck debris.
- Press the reset button located at the bottom of the unit.
- Turn it back on and test it.
Never stick your hand into the disposal. If it still doesn’t work, professional plumbing services can repair or replace it safely.
Smelly Drains
A foul smell from your sink or shower drain can make your home unpleasant. It usually happens when organic waste or grease builds up inside the pipes.
How to fix it:
- Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain.
- Wait 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
- Keep drains clean by doing this once a month.
If the smell continues, there could be a deeper problem in the plumbing vent or sewer line. In that case, hire plumbing services for a full inspection.
When to Call Professional Plumbing Services
DIY fixes are great for minor problems, but some issues need professional care. You should call a plumber if:
- The problem keeps coming back.
- You see water damage or mold.
- Pipes are frozen or burst.
- You notice sewage backup or bad odors from multiple drains.
Professional plumbing services not only fix the issue but also find the root cause to prevent it from happening again.
Simple Tips to Avoid Plumbing Problems
Here are a few easy habits to keep your plumbing in good shape:
- Don’t pour grease or oil down the sink.
- Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
- Check pipes under sinks regularly for leaks.
- Flush only toilet paper—no wipes or foreign items.
- Schedule annual inspections with trusted plumbing services to catch issues early.
Taking small steps now can save you from big repairs later.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing issues can be stressful, but most small ones are easy to fix if you act quickly. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, clogged drain, or running toilet, you can handle many of these at home. But when things get serious—like burst pipes or water heater failures—it’s best to rely on professional plumbing services for help.
If you live in Kingston, Ontario, and need trusted experts, Flow Efficient Plumbing is always ready to help with reliable residential and commercial plumbing solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I get my plumbing inspected?
It’s a good idea to have your plumbing checked once a year by professional plumbing services. Regular inspections help find leaks or corrosion early.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners for clogs?
It’s better not to. Chemical cleaners can damage your pipes. Instead, use baking soda and vinegar or a drain snake.
What should I do if my water heater leaks?
Turn off the power and water supply, then call professional plumbing services right away. Leaks can lead to serious damage if ignored.
How can I prevent frozen pipes in winter?
Insulate exposed pipes, keep cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate, and let faucets drip during freezing temperatures.
Why does my toilet make noise after flushing?
It might be a faulty fill valve or water hammer. Tighten the valve or call a plumber to replace it if the sound continues.