4 Common Plumbing Repair Issues & What to Do About Them

March 24, 2025
Image: 4 Common Plumbing Repair Issues & What to Do About Them
Plumbing problems can strike at any time, causing inconvenience and potential water damage to your home. Whether it’s a slow drain, a leaky pipe, or a toilet that just won’t flush properly, knowing how to handle common plumbing issues can save you time and stress.

In this blog, the plumbing experts at Ace Hardware Home Services share four of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face and how to fix them. And for severe issues, we’ll let you know when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Most Common Plumbing Problems & How To Resolve Them

Some plumbing issues are simple enough for a quick DIY fix while other
require professional intervention. Below, we cover four of the most frequent
plumbing problems, along with tips on how to handle them.

Clogged Drains

A slow or completely clogged drain is one of the most common household plumbing issues. This usually happens due to a buildup of hair, soap scum, grease, or other debris. Smaller blockages can usually be dislodged by:

• Using a plunger to remove the clog
• Using a drain snake or auger to pull out any obstructions
• Pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water

If multiple drains in your home are clogged simultaneously, you could have a bigger problem on your hands, such as a sewer line blockage. A professional plumber can use specialized equipment to clear the system.

Leaking Pipes

Leaky pipes can cause water damage, increase your water bills, and lead to mold growth if not addressed promptly. Pipes can leak due to corrosion, high water pressure, or loose fittings. If you suspect a minor leak, try tightening any loose fittings around joints, using plumber’s tape or pipe sealant, or apply a pipe repair clamp or epoxy for a temporary fix.

For severe corrosion or persistent leaks after temporary repairs have been administered, it’s best to have a professional replace the section of piping to prevent further damage.

No Hot Water

If you find yourself without hot water, your water heater could be the culprit. Common causes include a malfunctioning heating element, a faulty thermostat, or sediment buildup in the tank. Here’s how to fix it:

• Check if the pilot light is out on a gas water heater.
• Adjust the thermostat to ensure it’s set to an appropriate temperature.
• Flush the water tank to remove sediment buildup.

If your water heater is making strange noises, leaking, or failing to provide hot water despite troubleshooting, it will need professional repairs or replacement.

Toilet Clogs

A clogged toilet is a frustrating yet common issue, typically caused by flushing excessive toilet paper, foreign objects, or non-flushable items. Using a plunger or toilet auger to dislodge clogs and blockages can be an effective method. Additionally, avoid flushing wipes, hygiene products, or other items that can lead to clogs.

If plunging and snaking don’t work or if your toilet frequently clogs, there may
be a more serious issue with your plumbing system that needs professional
attention.

When To Call a Professional

While some plumbing problems can be handled with DIY solutions, there are times when calling a professional plumber is the best course of action. You should contact a plumbing expert if:

• You experience recurring clogs or slow drains
• You notice a significant drop in water pressure
• A leak is causing water damage to your home
• You have sewage backup or foul odors from your drains
• Your water heater stops working despite troubleshooting

Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise to diagnose and repair complex plumbing issues efficiently, preventing further damage and costly repairs.

Choose Ace Hardware Home Services for Expert Plumbing Repairs

When plumbing problems arise, don’t let them turn into major headaches. At Ace Hardware Home Services, we provide fast, reliable plumbing repair services to keep your home’s systems running smoothly. Whether you need a quick fix or a complete plumbing overhaul, our experienced team is ready to help.

Call or contact us online today to schedule plumbing repairs with our team!