Every home will develop plumbing issues over time. When you know what to expect and what to do first in the middle of a plumbing problem, you can act fast to minimize damage and costs. At 1-800-Plumber +Air, we want to give Dallas residents the knowledge they need for DIY steps and quick, reliable access to professional plumbers for everything else. Take a look at these common plumbing issues in Dallas, TX, so you know what to do.
Nine Common Plumbing Problems in Dallas
Dallas residents can have plumbing problems with both their water supply (pipes and faucets) and drainage pipes. Be ready for these common plumbing issues:
1. Clogged Drains
Toilets, sinks, and tubs get clogged. Many times, they’re small clogs near the beginning of the drainage pipe, and homeowners can try to break up those clogs with a plunger or certified-safe clog tool. But deeper clogs, frequently recurring clogs, and partial clogs that make your pipes gurgle need scoping and clearing from a professional.
2. Low Water Pressure
If water seems slow or lower-pressure, common causes in Dallas include:
- Clogged aerators or pipes, especially due to hard water buildup
- Leaks
- Broken pressure regulator
- Simultaneously running fixtures (such as running the sprinklers and a shower at the same time), especially in older homes
- Water main issues or periods of peak demand
Troubleshoot potential causes like too much demand, but contact a professional if the pressure stays low.
3. Blocked Pipes
Blocked pipes indicate a serious clog that you can’t dislodge on your own. Common blockages are foreign objects that accidentally fell into the drain or shouldn’t be disposed of down a drain, hair clumps, and FOG (fats, oils, grease). But in Dallas, your main drain may be blocked by tree roots that have dug their way into the drains to find water.
4. Running Toilets
A constantly running toilet can waste around 200 gallons of water or more every day. Luckily, they’re usually easy to fix. You can go into the tank and adjust the float or loosen the flapper chain, replace faulty flappers, or even replace the entire kit inside the tank. If you’re not comfortable with the project or adjustments don’t solve the problem, a plumber can help.
5. Dripping Faucets
Facuets have a rubber or plastic washer inside the head. All the screwed-in pieces compress the washer in place, which prevents water from leaking out when the faucet is off. But over time, the washer can get worn, torn, or overly corroded by hard water. Replace the washer, and contact a plumber if that doesn’t solve the leak.
6. Aging Plumbing Systems
As plumbing ages, it’s more susceptible to leaks, cracks, and wear. If you notice frequent plumbing problems, even if they’re in different areas of your home, that could indicate it’s time for new fixtures or a repiping project.
7. Hot Water Loss
Water heaters become less efficient as they age. Undersized water heaters also can’t keep up with high usage. If you have tepid water or the water only stays hot for a little while, consider replacing your heater.
8. Burst Pipes
The most common cause of burst pipes is freezing, even in Texas. Make sure your attic or crawl space pipes are fully insulated. Pipes can also burst if you’ve recently adjusted the water pressure or changed out fixtures that cause water hammer.
9. Outdated Fixtures
Fixtures wear out over time, developing leaks and cracks. For budget-friendly solutions, check the washers and other replaceable parts. But if it’s near the end of the typical service life for your fixture, modern replacements may have water-efficient mechanisms and new built-in safeties to minimize plumbing emergencies.
When Professional Services Are Needed
There are some plumbing problems homeowners can handle alone, such as replacing a toilet kit or replacing a sink faucet washer. But for bigger problems or recurring issues, call in a plumber. They can troubleshoot the problem and offer long-term solutions.
The 1-800-Plumber +Air Difference
At 1-800-Plumber +Air, we have a team of local plumbing experts familiar with common plumbing problems in Dallas and the best solutions. We provide convenient appointments and 24/7 responses to plumbing emergencies.
Let’s Talk About It! Contact 1-800-Plumber +Air Today
Have one of these common plumbing issues in your home right now? 1-800-Plumber +Air in Dallas is here to help. Call us to describe your plumbing problems, and we’ll schedule an appointment that fits your schedule.
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