Your home’s plumbing system works hard every day — often without much notice — until something goes wrong. From leaking faucets to burst pipes, residential plumbing issues can cause costly damage and major inconvenience if left unchecked.
At RB Plumbing Sewer & Drains, Inc., we’ve helped countless homeowners fix both everyday annoyances and major disasters. In this post, we’ll break down the most common plumbing problems and what you can do to prevent them.
1. Clogged Drains
Whether it’s a kitchen sink or a slow-draining shower, clogs are among the most frequent calls we get. They’re typically caused by:
- Hair and soap scum in the bathroom
- Food scraps and grease in the kitchen
- Foreign objects flushed down toilets
Prevention tip: Use drain screens, avoid pouring oil down the sink, and never flush wipes — even if they’re labeled “flushable.”
2. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
A dripping faucet might seem minor, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year. Common causes include worn washers, loose connections, or corrosion.
Prevention tip: Address drips early, and schedule periodic inspections to keep your plumbing system in good shape.
3. Running Toilets
A running toilet isn’t just annoying — it can significantly increase your water bill. The culprit is usually a faulty flapper or fill valve that doesn’t seal properly.
Prevention tip: Check your toilet’s components every few months and replace worn parts right away.
4. Low Water Pressure
Poor water pressure makes daily tasks frustrating and often points to hidden issues like pipe corrosion, leaks, or sediment buildup.
Prevention tip: Install a whole-house water filtration system if you live in an area with hard water, and have a plumber inspect your system if the problem persists.
5. Water Heater Problems
No hot water? Inconsistent temperatures? Strange noises? These signs could indicate sediment buildup, thermostat failure, or tank corrosion.
Prevention tip: Flush your tank-style water heater annually and consider upgrading to a more efficient model if yours is over 10 years old.
Professional Residential Plumbing Services You Can Trust
From emergency repairs to long-term maintenance, RB Plumbing Sewer & Drains provides reliable, affordable residential plumbing solutions in Bolingbrook and surrounding areas. Our licensed professionals handle everything from pipe repair and fixture installation to whole-home repiping — all with upfront pricing and friendly service.