5 Items to Check to Know if Plumbing is Bad: Common Plumbing Problems

Think of your home’s plumbing like the veins in your body. When everything’s running smoothly, you hardly even think about it. But when something goes off? That’s when the trouble starts. A little leak here, a slow drip there, or a clogged drain might not seem like a big deal at first, but brushing them off can lead to serious damage—both to your place and your bank account.

If you’ve ever suspected plumbing problems but weren’t sure what to look for, here’s how to tell if it’s bad and what to do before it gets worse.

1. Low Water Pressure 

If you turn on the faucet only to find a weak trickle instead of a steady flow, that’s low water pressure, a clear sign that something’s wrong. It could mean a clogged pipe, a water leak, or a problem with the water supply. 

    How to Check Your Water Pressure
    • Use a water pressure gauge to check the levels at different fixtures in your home. Normal water pressure should be 40-60 psi. Anything lower could mean a problem.
    • Check your appliances. A drop in pressure in your sink, shower, or washing machine could indicate buildup in your pipes.

    When to Call a Professional Plumber: The issue may be in your main water line. If multiple fixtures have low pressure, Call a plumber before a hidden leak causes significant water damage.

    2. Clogged Drains and Slow Drainage 

    A drain that’s moving slowly might be a warning sign. Over time, hair, soap gunk, leftover food, and grease can pile up and cause a blockage. Ignoring a simple clog could turn into a burst pipe or a major water mess.

    DIY Fixes for Minor Plumbing Issues
    • Use a plunger to clear minor clogs in sinks and toilets.
    • Try a drain snake for deeper blockages.
    • Avoid chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes over time.
     
    When a Clogged Drain Requires a Professional Plumber

    You might have a sewer line issue if your drains make gurgling noises or if multiple drains are backing up simultaneously. Don’t wait; call a plumber immediately.

    3. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures

    That steady drip from the faucet may seem harmless, but it’s wasting gallons of water every month. A leaky faucet doesn’t just spike your water bill, it also stresses your plumbing system and can lead to more leaks.

    DIY Fixes for a Leaky Faucet
    • Check the washer or O-ring. A worn-out seal is the most common cause of leaks.
    • Tighten the faucet joints. Loose connections can lead to leaks over time.
     
    When a Faucet Leak Indicates a Bigger Plumbing Issue

    If the leak isn’t just at the faucet but also under the sink or near the pipes, it could indicate a crack in your plumbing system. Don’t ignore these warning signs—check it before it worsens.

    4. Running Toilets and Hidden Water Waste

    If your toilet’s running, it could be a sign of some common issues in your home’s plumbing. Things like corrosion or a leak in your plumbing can waste a significant amount of water, which means a higher water bill. Plus, you might face costly repairs if you don’t check your pipes and drain pipes.

    DIY Fix for a Running Toilet
    • Inspect the toilet tank for worn-out parts.
    • Replace the flapper or adjust the float valve to stop unnecessary water usage.
    When to Call a Plumber for a Toilet Issue

    If your toilet leaks at the base or you notice water pooling around it, you may have a wax ring issue or a more serious pipe leak. A professional plumber can fix this before water damage spreads to your floor.

    5. Hidden Pipe Leaks 

    How to Detect Hidden Pipe Leaks

    Not all plumbing leaks are visible. Some stay hidden behind walls, under floors, or even underground, causing severe structural damage before you even notice them.

    • Check for water stains on the ceilings, walls, or baseboards.
    • Look for a musty smell or mold buildup. These are signs of hidden moisture.
    • Inspect areas around sinks, tubs, and appliances for unexplained dampness.
     
    Using Your Water Meter to Find a Leak
    1. Turn off the water in your home.

    2. Check your water meter reading.

    3. Wait for 30 minutes and check again. If the meter has changed, you leak somewhere.

     
    When to Hire a Professional Plumber for Leak Detection

    If you suspect a hidden leak but can’t locate the source of the leak, a plumbing inspection is your best option. Professional plumbers use leak detection tools to find leaks before they cause water damage.

    Prepare Your Plumbing for Cold Weather and Keep Your Home Safe

    Bad plumbing isn’t something you want to ignore. If you’re dealing with low water pressure, clogged drains, leaky faucets, or hidden leaks, it’s time to act.

    Don’t wait for a minor issue to turn into an expensive repair! If you need expert assistance, IronShield Plumbing has you covered. Contact us today, for a complete plumbing inspection and repair services. Let’s keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly!