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7 Common Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them

Discover 7 common plumbing issues and how to fix them with expert tips from CITYWIDE Plumbers. Fast, reliable solutions for your home.

Plumbing problems can strike at any time, often catching homeowners off guard. From dripping taps to blocked drains, these issues can range from minor annoyances to major disruptions. At CITYWIDE Plumbers, we understand the importance of a smoothly functioning plumbing system. With years of expertise serving homes and businesses across the UK, our team is here to guide you through the most common plumbing problems and offer practical solutions to tackle them. This article explores seven frequent plumbing issues, their causes, and how you can address them—either on your own or with professional help from CITYWIDE Plumbers.

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1. Dripping Taps

A dripping tap is one of the most common plumbing issues, often caused by a worn-out washer, damaged O-ring, or corroded valve seat. Not only is the constant drip-drip sound irritating, but it can also waste significant amounts of water over time, increasing your bills.

How to Fix It

Turn off the water supply: Locate the isolation valve under the sink or turn off the main water supply.
Disassemble the tap: Remove the tap handle (usually secured with a screw under a cap) to access the internal components.
Replace the washer or O-ring: Inspect the washer or O-ring for wear and replace it with a matching part from a hardware store.
Reassemble and test: Put the tap back together, turn on the water, and check for leaks.

If the problem persists or you’re unsure about dismantling the tap, CITYWIDE Plumbers can send a qualified technician to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.

2. Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are a frequent headache, often caused by grease, hair, soap residue, or food debris building up in pipes. Slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or unpleasant odours are telltale signs.

How to Fix It

Use a plunger: A plunger can dislodge minor blockages in sinks or toilets.
Try a drain snake: Insert a drain snake or auger into the pipe to break up or pull out the clog.
Use a natural cleaner: Pour a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar down the drain to dissolve grease and organic matter.
Avoid chemical cleaners: These can damage pipes and are less effective than professional solutions.

For stubborn blockages, CITYWIDE Plumbers uses advanced tools like high-pressure water jetting to clear drains without harming your plumbing system.

3. Leaking Pipes

Leaking pipes can cause water damage, mould growth, and structural issues if left unaddressed. Common causes include corrosion, high water pressure, or physical damage to the pipes.

How to Fix It

Locate the leak: Look for damp spots, water stains, or pooling water.
Turn off the water supply: This prevents further leakage while you work.
Apply a temporary fix: Use plumber’s tape or a pipe clamp as a short-term solution.
Replace damaged sections: For a permanent fix, cut out the damaged pipe section and replace it with a new one, ensuring proper fittings.

Leaking pipes often require professional expertise, especially if they’re hidden behind walls or under floors. CITYWIDE Plumbers offers leak detection services using state-of-the-art equipment to pinpoint and repair leaks with minimal disruption.

4. Running Toilet

A running toilet, where water continuously flows into the bowl, is often due to a faulty flapper valve, worn-out flush valve, or an improperly adjusted float.

How to Fix It

Inspect the flapper: Check if the flapper valve is sealing properly. Replace it if it’s worn or warped.
Adjust the float: Ensure the float isn’t set too high, causing water to overflow into the overflow tube.
Check the chain: Adjust the chain length connecting the flapper to the flush valve to ensure a proper seal.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, CITYWIDE Plumbers can diagnose and repair complex toilet problems, ensuring your system runs efficiently.

5. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make everyday tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating. Causes include clogged pipes, faulty pressure regulators, or leaks in the system.

How to Fix It

Check for clogs: Inspect aerators on taps and showerheads for mineral deposits. Soak them in vinegar to dissolve buildup.
Inspect for leaks: Leaks in the system can reduce pressure. Check visible pipes and call a professional for hidden leaks.
Test the pressure regulator: If your home has a pressure regulator, ensure it’s functioning correctly.

For persistent low pressure, CITYWIDE Plumbers can conduct a thorough system check to identify and fix the root cause, restoring optimal water flow.

6. Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are a plumbing emergency, often triggered by freezing temperatures, corrosion, or excessive water pressure. They can cause significant water damage in a short time.

How to Fix It

Shut off the water supply immediately: This limits water loss and damage.
Drain the system: Open all taps to drain remaining water from the pipes.
Apply a temporary patch: Use a pipe repair clamp or sleeve until a professional can replace the pipe.
Call a plumber: Burst pipes require urgent attention to prevent costly damage.

CITYWIDE Plumbers offers 24/7 emergency services to handle burst pipes, ensuring rapid response and expert repairs to protect your property.

7. Faulty Water Heater

A faulty water heater can leave you without hot water, often due to a broken thermostat, sediment buildup, or a malfunctioning heating element.

How to Fix It

Check the thermostat: Ensure it’s set to the desired temperature (typically 50–60°C).
Flush the tank: Drain the water heater to remove sediment buildup that can affect performance.
Inspect the heating element: Test and replace the element if it’s faulty (consult a professional for gas heaters).

Water heater repairs can be complex, especially for gas or electric systems. CITYWIDE Plumbers provides expert maintenance and repair services to restore your hot water supply.

Why Choose CITYWIDE Plumbers?

At CITYWIDE Plumbers, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable, professional plumbing services across the UK. Our team of certified plumbers is equipped to handle everything from minor fixes to major emergencies. We use cutting-edge technology, such as CCTV drain inspections and leak detection systems, to diagnose issues accurately and provide long-lasting solutions. Whether you’re dealing with a dripping tap or a burst pipe, we’re available 24/7 to ensure your home stays safe and comfortable.

Preventative Tips to Avoid Plumbing Issues

Regular maintenance: Schedule annual plumbing inspections to catch problems early.
Mind what you flush: Avoid flushing non-degradable items like wipes or sanitary products.
Insulate pipes: Protect pipes from freezing in winter by insulating them.
Monitor water pressure: Install a pressure regulator to prevent damage to pipes and appliances.

By addressing small issues promptly and following these tips, you can prevent costly repairs. However, when problems arise, CITYWIDE Plumbers is just a call away to provide expert assistance.

Conclusion

Plumbing issues are an inevitable part of homeownership, but with the right knowledge and support, they don’t have to disrupt your life. From dripping taps to burst pipes, understanding the causes and solutions can save you time, money, and stress. For complex or persistent problems, trust CITYWIDE Plumbers to deliver fast, reliable, and professional services. Contact us today for expert advice or to schedule a visit from our skilled team.