Every homeowner will face plumbing issues at some point, from minor annoyances to major headaches. Being aware of the most frequent plumbing problems in Snellville homes – and how to address them – can save you time, money, and stress. Below we highlight ten common plumbing problems in the area and offer practical solutions.
1. Clogged Drains and Toilets
Slow or clogged drains in sinks, showers, or tubs are usually caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, grease, or other debris. A plunger or a household drain snake can often clear minor clogs. For toilet clogs, a plunger is the first line of defense. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as these can damage your pipes over time. If you experience recurring clogs or multiple fixtures backing up at once, it may indicate a deeper blockage in the system. In that case, it’s best to call a professional for a thorough drain cleaning service.
2. Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet is not only irritating – it also wastes water and money. Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water over the course of a year. In fact, the EPA notes that household leaks can waste an average of 10,000 gallons annually. Dripping faucets are often caused by worn-out washers or cartridges. You can replace these parts with basic tools, or call a plumber if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself. Fixing drips promptly will save on your water bill and conserve water.
3. Running Toilets
A toilet that keeps running after a flush can waste huge amounts of water – sometimes up to 200 gallons a day in severe cases. The usual culprit is a faulty flapper or fill valve inside the tank. Flappers can wear out or become misaligned, allowing water to continuously leak from the tank into the bowl. Check the flapper and replace it if it’s deteriorated or not sealing properly. In some cases, the float arm or fill valve may need adjustment or replacement. Most toilet repairs are inexpensive and well worth the water savings. If you’re not sure how to fix a running toilet, a plumber from True Blue Plumbing can quickly diagnose and repair it.
4. Leaking Pipes
Leaky pipes can occur at joints, fixtures, or pinhole leaks in the pipe itself. You might notice a puddle under a sink, damp drywall, or hear dripping within walls. Even a tiny crack can release hundreds of gallons of water a day, causing water bills to skyrocket and potential home damage. At the first sign of a leak, shut off the water supply to that section (or the whole house if needed) and call a plumber. Temporary fixes like pipe tape or epoxy putty can help contain the leak until a professional repair is done. It’s crucial to address pipe leaks promptly to prevent mold growth and structural damage. For expert leak repair, contact True Blue Plumbing – we offer electronic leak detection and permanent solutions.
5. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure makes everyday tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating. If only one fixture is affected (for example, a showerhead with weak flow), the cause may be mineral buildup clogging the aerator or showerhead – removing and cleaning it can restore pressure. However, if you notice weak pressure throughout your home, it could indicate a larger issue. Common causes include an aging main water line with corrosion, a partially closed shutoff valve, or a hidden leak. Low pressure in all fixtures is one warning sign of a main water line problem or leak. If cleaning aerators doesn’t help, it’s wise to have a plumber investigate for hidden issues or consider a main water line repair if necessary.
6. Water Heater Issues
Lack of hot water, a limited hot water supply, or fluctuating water temperatures are all signs of water heater troubles. Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years. If your unit is within this age range and causing problems – such as rusty-colored hot water or rumbling and popping noises – it may be nearing the end of its life. Sometimes, a component like a heating element or thermostat can be replaced to extend the heater’s life. Sediment buildup in the tank can also cause noise and reduce heating efficiency; draining and flushing the tank yearly helps prevent this. For persistent issues or an aging unit, consider upgrading to a newer model or a tankless unit for improved efficiency. True Blue Plumbing provides water heater repair and replacement services to keep your home’s hot water reliable.
7. Garbage Disposal Jams
In kitchens, a common problem is a jammed or clogged garbage disposal. This often happens when inappropriate items (like fibrous vegetable peels, grease, or utensils) get stuck in the disposal blades. Always run cold water and only feed small amounts of appropriate food waste at a time. If your disposal is humming but not grinding, cut the power and use an Allen wrench in the bottom of the unit to manually free the impeller. You can also carefully use tongs or pliers to remove jammed debris (never use your hand). Press the reset button on the unit and try again. If the disposal is still not working, the motor may be burned out or another issue is at play – a plumber can safely repair or replace it. Regularly grinding some ice cubes and lemon peels can help clean the disposal and keep it smelling fresh.
8. Sewer System Backups
A sewer line blockage or backup is a serious plumbing issue that can affect your whole home. If you notice multiple fixtures (toilets, showers, etc.) backing up or gurgling when you use water, this could mean a clog in the main sewer line. Sewer backups often come with a foul odor of sewage. You might even observe sewage coming up through a floor drain or lowest fixture. Common causes include tree roots invading the sewer pipe, flushable wipes or other debris causing a clog, or a collapsed old sewer pipe. This issue requires immediate professional attention – do not attempt to clear a main sewer clog with store-bought drain cleaners. Plumbers have specialized augers and hydro-jetting equipment to remove tough sewer clogs safely. True Blue Plumbing can perform a camera inspection to pinpoint the blockage and either clear the line or suggest repairs if the pipe is damaged.
9. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can release a torrent of water and cause sudden flooding in your home. In Snellville’s occasional freezing winter nights, pipes that are not insulated can freeze and burst open. Corroded old pipes can also rupture under pressure. If a pipe bursts, you’ll know it – the sound of water running within walls or sudden water pooling is a giveaway. This is an extreme emergency: immediately shut off your home’s main water valve (know ahead of time where this is located). Open taps to drain the remaining water pressure and call an emergency plumber. While waiting, carefully remove any belongings from the wet area and start drying up water to minimize damage. Once the immediate crisis is handled, the damaged section of pipe will need replacement. It’s wise to have your plumbing inspected if you have older pipes, and in winter keep vulnerable areas heated or dripping to prevent freezes. True Blue Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency service to handle burst pipes and other urgent problems.
10. Outdated or Failing Fixtures
Finally, many plumbing problems arise simply from old age. Fixtures and plumbing components wear out over time. An old shutoff valve might start leaking, a water heater tank can rust through, or steel pipes may corrode and restrict flow. If your home has very old plumbing (decades old), you may encounter frequent small leaks or failures. Replacing old fixtures (toilets, faucets, water heaters) with new, efficient models can preempt many problems and often reduce your water usage. For example, newer low-flow toilets and showerheads can function well while saving water. During a bathroom or kitchen renovation, it’s smart to upgrade the plumbing behind the walls as well – swapping old galvanized pipes for copper or PEX, for instance, to prevent future leaks.
Plumbing problems can range from simple fixes to complex repairs. The good news is that most common issues have straightforward solutions when handled promptly. By staying vigilant for the signs of trouble – and knowing your limits for DIY fixes – you can avoid minor problems turning into major damage. For any plumbing issue, big or small, the certified professionals at True Blue Plumbing are here to help Snellville homeowners. Our team can quickly diagnose the problem and get your plumbing back on track. Don’t let a plumbing problem disrupt your life – contact True Blue Plumbing for fast, reliable service whenever you need it.