| Backed-up service lines
The underground sewer line, which takes waste from your house to the city sewer main, or to your septic tank, can sometimes become clogged. Sewage can enter your house through the main house drain, usually in the basement.
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| Backed-up toilets
Plumbers will tell you that most toilet blockages are caused by plastic Items, sanitary products and toys. If your toilet is backed up and the water level is rising, quickly remove the tank lid and push the tank ball down to close the flush valve.
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| Failure & leaks of water heaters
If your water heater fails or is leaking, shut off the water supply immediately. Try to find the leak. It may be leaking at the drain valve connection at the bottom of the unit.
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| Flooding
Many things including, seepage from cracked pipes, a corroded water heater, or an overflowing faucet or toilet can cause flooding. Whatever the cause, take immediate steps to shut off the water.
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| Frozen pipes
The most likely water pipes to freeze are those on outside walls, in crawl spaces and attics. Frozen pipes can freeze and crack easily, leading to flooding and expensive repair costs.
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| Gas leaks
Natural gas or propane gas leaks are very dangerous because they may not be detected immediately. If you smell gas, call your gas company, open windows, extinguish all flames and cigarettes, and do not light matches or smoke.
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| Leaking faucets
A leaky faucet is one of those minor annoyances that can quickly become expensive if it isn't taken care of right away. A faucet that drips or leaks at the base of the lever or knob might need the washer replaced, or it might have a worn valve seat.
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| New pipes
If your home requires new pipes, contact a plumbing professional for recommendations on what type of pipe is appropriate for your situation. There are often local code requirements.
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| New sewer lines
If your sewer line is backing up repeatedly, and if the usual procedure of having it cleaned out with a sewer tape or power auger isn't solving the problem, it's an indication that your sewer line may need to be replaced.
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| No cooling
If your air conditioner doesn't seem to be working properly, start by checking the temperature control system. Make sure the thermostat is on the proper setting and that the air conditioner is, in fact, turned on.
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| No heat
If your heater isn't working properly, there are a few things you can check before calling a plumber. If you have radiators, check the air valve. If the air valve is clogged or worn out, the steam is unable to enter the radiator on the side.
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| Noisy pipes
There are several problems that can cause noisy pipes. Pipes that aren't anchored properly can shudder and make rattling noises. Shuddering pipes can be anchored with brackets to a beam or wall to reduce the rattling noise.
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| Pumping out septic tanks
Septic tanks will provide years of trouble-free service if you take care of some simple maintenance procedures. Have your system inspected yearly to see if it needs to be pumped out.
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| Running toilets
A running toilet is annoying and wastes a significant amount of water. Two good reasons to attend to it promptly. Usually, adjustments are needed to the float arm, which stops the water from entering when the tank is full.
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| Septic system maintenance
Properly maintaining a septic system is important in order to prevent backups and ensure proper operation. The septic tank itself should be cleaned of collected solids every two to three years.
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| Septic tank failure
Here are some signs that problems may be developing with your septic tank system. First, if the area above the absorption field is growing greener grass than surrounding areas, then you may have some flooding In the absorption area, indicating inadequate drainage.
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| Service leaks
Water service enters your home through a single, buried line connected to the municipal water main, or from a well if you live in the country. The water passes through a meter, either just inside your house or in a pit near the property line before branching out to supply your home.
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| Stopped-up drains
As soon as you notice that a drain is running slowly, you should take steps to solve the problem. Most stoppage in drains consists of hair, grease, food and soap.
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| Toilet repair
Repairs and adjustments to household toilets are usually minor and within the capabilities of the do-it yourself home repair person. An intermittent run of water may indicate a faulty outlet valve which is a rubber flapper with a built in float.
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| Water heaters
Proper adjustment of your water heater is necessary in order to provide safe and efficient hot water. Water heaters should be set to provide a hot water temperature of approximately one hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit.
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| Water heaters - no hot water
If you are experiencing a decrease in the amount of hot water your heater is supplying or you're not getting hot water at all, there are a few things you can check before calling a plumber.
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