The Most Common Plumbing Issues and How to Prevent Them.
- blogsinfo
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
Plumbing problems can strike at any time, often leading to frustration, costly repairs, and water damage. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, clogged drain, or a broken water heater, knowing the most common plumbing issues—and how to prevent them—can save you time, money, and stress.
If you’re a homeowner or business in need of plumbing services in Santa Fe, NM, this guide will help you understand the top plumbing problems and the steps you can take to avoid them.
1. Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet is not just annoying—it can waste gallons of water over time, increasing your water bill significantly.
Causes of Dripping Faucets:
Worn-out washers or O-rings
Corroded valve seat
High water pressure
Loose or broken parts
How to Prevent Dripping Faucets:
Regular maintenance is key. If you notice a small drip, replace the washer or O-ring immediately before it worsens. If the issue persists, contacting a professional plumbing service in Santa Fe, NM can help diagnose and fix the problem efficiently.
2. Clogged Drains
A clogged drain can slow down water flow in sinks, bathtubs, and showers. If left untreated, it can lead to bigger plumbing problems.
Common Causes of Clogged Drains:
Hair buildup in bathroom drains
Grease and food scraps in kitchen sinks
Soap scum and mineral deposits
Small objects accidentally flushed down
How to Prevent Clogged Drains:
Install drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain.
Regularly flush drains with hot water and baking soda.
Use enzymatic drain cleaners instead of harsh chemicals.
If you experience frequent clogs, it may be time to call a plumbing service in Santa Fe, NM for a thorough inspection.
3. Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, making it a costly and wasteful plumbing issue.
Causes of a Running Toilet:
Faulty flapper valve
Imbalanced float mechanism
Loose or broken toilet handle
High water pressure
How to Prevent a Running Toilet:
Check the flapper valve regularly and replace it if it's worn out. Ensure the float mechanism is properly adjusted to prevent excessive water from entering the tank. If you’re unsure how to fix it, hiring a professional plumbing service in Santa Fe, NM can prevent further water waste.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure makes daily activities like showering and washing dishes frustrating.
Causes of Low Water Pressure:
Mineral buildup in pipes
Leaky or corroded pipes
Issues with the municipal water supply
Faulty pressure regulator
How to Prevent Low Water Pressure:
Regularly check for leaks and clean faucet aerators to remove mineral deposits. If you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, call a Santa Fe, NM plumbing service to inspect your pipes and identify the root cause.
5. Water Heater Issues
A malfunctioning water heater can leave you with cold showers, which is never pleasant—especially in winter.
Common Water Heater Problems:
Sediment buildup in the tank
Faulty thermostat
Broken heating element
Corroded or leaking tank
How to Prevent Water Heater Issues:
Flush your water heater at least once a year to remove sediment buildup.
Set the thermostat to 120°F to prevent overheating.
Insulate the tank to improve efficiency.
Schedule regular inspections with a plumbing service in Santa Fe, NM to ensure optimal performance.
6. Leaky Pipes
A small pipe leak can lead to severe water damage if not addressed promptly.
Causes of Leaky Pipes:
Corrosion and rust
High water pressure
Poor pipe installation
Temperature fluctuations causing expansion and contraction
How to Prevent Leaky Pipes:
Inspect exposed pipes regularly for moisture or rust.
Ensure pipes are properly insulated during winter.
Reduce high water pressure using a regulator.
Call a professional Santa Fe, NM plumbing service at the first sign of a leak.
7. Sewer Line Backups
A backed-up sewer line is one of the most serious plumbing problems, often causing foul odors and potential health hazards.
Common Causes of Sewer Backups:
Tree root intrusion
Grease buildup in the main sewer line
Flushing non-biodegradable items
Broken or collapsed sewer pipes
How to Prevent Sewer Line Backups:
Avoid planting trees near sewer lines.
Never flush wipes, diapers, or sanitary products.
Have your sewer lines inspected and cleaned regularly by a plumbing service in Santa Fe, NM.
8. Sump Pump Failure
If your home has a basement, a sump pump prevents flooding. However, when it fails, you could face significant water damage.
Causes of Sump Pump Failure:
Power outages
Clogged or frozen discharge pipes
Overworked pump due to heavy rainfall
Lack of maintenance
How to Prevent Sump Pump Failure:
Test the pump regularly by pouring water into the sump pit.
Install a backup battery-powered sump pump.
Keep the discharge line clear of debris.
Schedule an annual sump pump check-up with a professional Santa Fe, NM plumber.
9. Frozen Pipes
Cold winters in Santa Fe can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to major water damage.
Causes of Frozen Pipes:
Exposure to freezing temperatures
Lack of insulation
Poor heating in crawl spaces or basements
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes:
Insulate exposed pipes before winter.
Let faucets drip during extremely cold nights.
Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to reach pipes.
If pipes freeze, call a Santa Fe, NM plumbing service immediately to prevent bursting.
10. Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can flood your home in minutes, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Causes of Burst Pipes:
Freezing and expanding water inside pipes
Corrosion weakening the pipe walls
High water pressure exceeding safe limits
How to Prevent Burst Pipes:
Regularly inspect pipes for signs of wear.
Keep pipes insulated and maintain a steady indoor temperature.
Install a water pressure regulator.
At the first sign of a leak, turn off your water supply and contact an emergency Santa Fe, NM plumbing service.
Conclusion:
Understanding the most common plumbing issues and taking preventative measures can save you from costly repairs and major inconveniences. Whether you’re dealing with a minor leak or a major sewer backup, timely maintenance and professional help are essential.
For reliable plumbing services in Santa Fe, NM, always choose a licensed and experienced plumber to ensure your home’s plumbing system remains in top condition. By staying proactive, you can avoid plumbing disasters and enjoy a hassle-free home.
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