At Bowers Plumbing Company, we know how frustrating plumbing issues can be. A leaky faucet, a slow drain, or a toilet that won’t stop running isn’t just an inconvenience—it can also lead to bigger problems if not addressed. While some plumbing issues can be fixed with a little elbow grease, others may require a professional. Here’s a quick guide on common plumbing problems, how to fix them, and tips to prevent them in the future.
1. Leaky Faucets
The Problem:
That drip-drip-drip sound isn’t just annoying—it can waste gallons of water over time, increasing your utility bill. Most often, the culprit is a worn-out washer or O-ring.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink.
- Plug the drain to prevent small parts from going down.
- Remove the faucet handle using a wrench or screwdriver.
- Replace the washer or O-ring.
- Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.
If the faucet continues to leak after replacing the washer, it might be time to replace the entire fixture. Give us a call if you’re unsure about this step—we’d be happy to help.
Prevention Tip:
Avoid over-tightening the faucet handle when turning off the water, as this can wear out the washers faster.
2. Clogged Drains
The Problem:
When sinks, tubs, or showers drain slowly, you’re likely dealing with a clog caused by accumulated hair, grease, or soap scum.
How to Fix It:
- Use a plunger to try and dislodge the clog.
- If that doesn’t work, try a drain snake or a wire hanger straightened out to pull up the debris.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners—they can damage your pipes over time.
When to Call Us:
If these methods don’t work or you notice recurring clogs, it may indicate a deeper issue in your plumbing system.
Prevention Tip:
Use drain covers to catch debris and regularly flush your drains with a mix of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar.
3. Running Toilets
The Problem:
A toilet that runs constantly can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day. The most common cause is a faulty flapper that doesn’t properly seal the tank.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Open the tank and check the flapper—the rubber piece at the bottom—making sure it’s clean and free of damage.
- Replace the flapper if it’s worn or cracked. Flappers are inexpensive and easy to swap out.
When to Call Us:
If replacing the flapper doesn’t resolve the problem, you may need to replace the entire flush-valve assembly.
Prevention Tip:
Avoid using in-tank toilet cleaners, as they can degrade the rubber parts in your toilet over time.
4. Low Water Pressure
The Problem:
When water trickles instead of gushes, it might be due to sediment buildup in your pipes, a faulty pressure regulator, or even a hidden leak.
How to Fix It:
- Check if the issue is isolated to a specific faucet or shower.
- If it’s a faucet, remove and clean the aerator (the small screen at the tip of the faucet).
- For showerheads, soak them in vinegar overnight to dissolve mineral deposits.
When to Call Us:
If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, or if you notice low water pressure throughout your home, you may have a more serious plumbing issue that requires professional attention.
Prevention Tip:
Install a water softener if you have hard water in your area. This helps reduce the buildup of minerals in your plumbing.
General Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems
- Inspect your plumbing regularly for signs of leaks or corrosion.
- Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the drain.
- Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup.
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is and how to use it during emergencies.
At Bowers Plumbing Company, we’re here to make your life easier. If you encounter any plumbing issue that seems too big to tackle on your own, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (316) 799-3212. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major overhaul, our team of experts is ready to help. Trust us to keep your plumbing system in top condition!