When to Contact a Plumber to Fix Plumbing Issues

Slow-running water from a faucet or showerhead indicates low water pressure

Most homeowners have a few supplies ready to manage minor plumbing emergencies. Often, a blocked toilet or sluggish drain might require a plunger and little effort to solve the issue as planned.

Some homeowners can do simple DIY repairs, such as replacing a toilet chain or drain cover. More significant plumbing repair work requires expert attention. Homeowners’ attempts to fix more complex problems, such as sluggish drains or dripping toilets, might result in more significant and costly issues.

Even with routine upkeep, periodic blocks or leaks are almost unavoidable, particularly in older houses. As listed below, Many common plumbing problems are best addressed by a plumbing professional. 

Low water pressure

Slow-running water from a faucet or showerhead indicates low water pressure. A few common reasons for low water pressure are:

• The plumbing may be connected to the local water supply instead of the pipes in the home. It’s unusual but not impossible. 

• An accumulation of sediment on faucet aerators is common and preventable. 

• Leaks in water pipelines leading to, or away from, the home. 

If a home has a filtering system, mineral deposits end up in the filters. Without such a system, deposits gather on the inner surface of aerators and shower heads, obstructing screens and slowing circulation. Many kitchen faucets have removable aerators for easy cleaning.

A more complicated repair may be ahead if low water pressure persists after clearing aerators and shower heads of sediment and deposits. A leak or break in pipelines leading into the house is an emergency that might harm a house’s facilities or structure. An unexpected and considerable decrease in water pressure without any recognized cause is a reason to contact a reputable plumber. 

Running toilets

When a toilet runs constantly after a flush, it may be time to check that all components are functional. Toilets typically run when the flapper valve allows water to flow from tank to bowl and does not seal correctly. Toilet repair packages are appropriate for most designs and require little effort.

Sometimes, however, there are more complex factors as to why toilets run. If the flapper, float device, and fill tube have been changed, sediment might impact flushing and filling. Increased water costs indicate a minor leak. To find a minor leak in a toilet, add a few drops of food coloring in the upper tank and wait 15 to 20 minutes. Search the bowl for any hint of color; tinted water confirms a repair is needed.

Sluggish or clogged drains

When the water that enters a sink, tub, or toilet remains after the plug is pulled, there is most likely a partial or total drain block. In some cases, a plunger can be a quick fix. However, it may not eliminate the obstruction. For occasional use, industrial drain cleaners are safe for some drain pipes. However, these caustic products can harm pipelines if utilized too often. If blocks or clogs occur frequently, it’s time to call a professional plumber to address the concern. 

Dripping pipes

If routine checks expose water under a pipe, this may indicate an expensive problem. Leaks generally occur at joints. Using joint fillers and fitting substances is a temporary repair. A leak tape or compression clamp can also be used until a professional can address the problem. Although changing a leaking U-joint under a sink isn’t a complicated repair, it can be considered unpleasant. An expert can help save time and money between repairs and clean-up. 

Evenflow Home and Commercial Services of San Antonio offers impeccable house cleaning services, professional plumbing, electrician services, HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. Our technicians offer 24-hour emergency electrical and HVAC service for San Antonio, Schertz, Converse, Floresville, Elmendorf, and more. Call us at (210)941-3503.