Have you ever faced a sudden plumbing problem and wondered if it’s time to call the best professional plumber Birmingham AL has to offer? Maybe it’s leaky faucets keeping you up at night or a clogged drain refusing to budge regardless of what you try.
Such plumbing issues are more than annoying—they can cause severe damage if left unchecked. Knowing when to call a plumber can save you time, money, and frustration. While some problems are quick do-it-yourself (DIY) fixes, others need an expert’s touch to avoid costly mistakes.
In this article, you’ll learn the most common plumbing problems that need professional help. Read on for the details!
Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can waste a surprising amount of water and increase your bill over time. This steady drip often points to underlying issues, such as worn-out washers, broken seals, or internal corrosion.
Although fixing it might look simple, the problem often requires tools and expertise you may not have. Calling a plumber will ensure the root cause is addressed. This will prevent the issue from turning into a bigger problem.
When researching potential plumbers, prioritize experienced professionals, such as Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain, with the right certifications and licenses. These experts can identify the problem and provide a lasting solution.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a common plumbing problem in many homes. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink or a completely blocked shower, these problems often result from hair, grease, soap scum, or other debris building up in the pipes.
While drain cleaners from the store might seem like an easy fix, they only offer temporary relief and can harm your pipes with repeated use. A plumber can solve the problem more effectively using tools like drain snakes or hydro-jetting to clear the blockage safely and prevent further damage.
Running Toilets
A running toilet isn’t just noisy. It wastes a lot of water and increases your bill. It’s often caused by a faulty flapper valve, worn seals, or issues with the fill valve inside the tank.
While you might try fixing it yourself, installing the wrong parts or making mistakes can cause new problems. A plumber can inspect the toilet, find the exact issue, and make the right repairs to stop the constant water flow.
Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is one of the most serious plumbing problems you can face. It can happen during freezing weather when water in the pipes expands or when old pipes wear out over time.
The damage from a burst pipe can be severe. Water can flood your home and lead to structural problems or mold. If you think a pipe has burst, turn off your water supply right away to prevent further damage. A plumber can fix or replace the broken pipe and suggest ways to avoid potential issues in the future.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common culprit in cold weather. When the water inside the pipes freezes, it expands and can cause cracks or bursts, leading to major water damage. Signs to watch for include reduced water flow or frost forming on the outside of the pipe.
Trying to thaw a frozen pipe without proper knowledge can worsen the problem. A plumber can handle the situation safely, restore water flow, and insulate your pipes to help prevent freezing in the future.
Low Water Pressure
If your shower feels weak or your faucets barely flow, you might have low water pressure. This problem can happen because of mineral buildup in your pipes, a valve that isn’t fully open, or even a hidden leak in your system.
Low water pressure is frustrating, but it could also indicate a bigger issue with your plumbing system. A plumber can find and fix the exact cause so your water pressure returns to normal.
Sewer Line Backups
A sewer line backup can be one of the worst plumbing issues to deal with. It can cause foul odors, slow drains, or even raw sewage coming into your home.
This often happens because of tree roots growing into the pipes, blockages, or old, worn-out sewer lines. Solving this problem requires special tools and skills, so it’s essential to call a plumber right away to avoid further damage.
Backflow Issues
Backflow happens when dirty water gets into your clean water supply, which can harm your health. It usually occurs because of a pressure problem in your plumbing system.
Although backflow preventers are meant to stop this, they can wear out or stop working over time. A plumber can check your system, fix broken parts, and ensure your water stays safe.
Persistent Leaks
Some water leaks aren’t visible immediately. Some happen behind walls, under floors, or even in your home’s foundation, making them hard to notice.
Over time, these hidden leaks can lead to serious problems like water damage, mold growth, and high utility bills. Finding and fixing these leaks often needs special tools, so a DIY approach may not cut it.
Water Heater Problems
A faulty water heater can make daily tasks like showering or washing dishes difficult. You might notice no hot water, unusual noises, leaks, or water that’s too hot or too cold.
These issues are often caused by sediment buildup, a broken thermostat, or parts that have worn out over time. However, fixing a water heater without the right knowledge can be risky, so it’s safer to call a plumber to handle the problem.
Conclusion
Plumbing problems can disrupt your daily life and even cause serious damage to your home. While some minor issues might seem easy to fix yourself, many plumbing problems require the expertise of a qualified plumber. So, don’t wait until a small problem turns into a costly disaster. Call a qualified plumber when you notice any of these common issues to protect your home and maintain your peace of mind.
