Introduction
Plumbing issues are a common headache for homeowners and businesses alike. From leaky taps to major pipe bursts, these problems not only disrupt daily life but can also lead to costly repairs if ignored. At Baps-Taps, we’ve encountered and resolved countless plumbing issues across London. In this guide, we’ll share our expertise to help you tackle 10 of the most common plumbing problems.
1. Dripping Taps
Dripping taps are one of the most common and annoying plumbing issues. While they may seem minor, they can waste up to 5,000 litres of water annually—enough to fill 66 bathtubs!
Common Causes:
● Worn-out washers
● Faulty O-rings or cartridges in mixer taps
DIY Fix:
1. Turn off the water supply.
2. Disassemble the tap using the appropriate tools.
3. Replace the washer or cartridge with a compatible replacement.
4. Reassemble and test the tap.
When to Call a Plumber:
If the issue persists despite replacing the components or if the tap design is complex.
2. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can cause water to back up, leading to unpleasant odours and potential water damage.
Common Causes:
● Hair buildup (in bathrooms)
● Food scraps and grease (in kitchens)
DIY Fix:
● Use a plunger to create suction and dislodge minor clogs.
● Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the drain, followed by boiling water.
Pro Tip:
Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can corrode your pipes over time.
When to Call a Plumber:
If the blockage is severe or recurring, as it might indicate a problem deeper in the plumbing
system.
3. Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste over 900 litres of water daily, significantly increasing your water bill.
Common Causes:
● Faulty flapper valve
● Incorrectly adjusted float
● Silent leaks (e.g., worn-out seals)
DIY Fix:
1. Inspect the flapper valve and replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
2. Adjust the float level to ensure the tank fills correctly.
Pro Tip:
Add food colouring to the tank water. If the colour appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make daily activities like showering frustrating.
Common Causes:
● Mineral buildup in aerators
● Hidden leaks in the plumbing system
● Faulty pressure regulators
DIY Fix:
● Unscrew and clean the aerators with vinegar to remove deposits.
● Check for visible leaks.
When to Call a Plumber:
If cleaning aerators doesn’t resolve the issue or you suspect a leak in the main water line.
5. Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes can lead to water damage, mould growth, and even structural problems.
Common Causes:
● Corrosion over time
● High water pressure
● Loose joints or cracked seals
DIY Fix (Temporary):
● Use pipe tape or a rubber patch to seal the leak temporarily.
Professional Solution:
A plumber will replace damaged sections of the pipe or fix loose joints securely.
6. Water Heater Issues
Cold showers are unpleasant, and a malfunctioning water heater can disrupt your routine.
Common Causes:
● Sediment buildup in the tank
● Faulty thermostat
● Corroded heating elements
DIY Fix:
● Flush the tank to remove sediment.
● Check the thermostat settings.
When to Call a Plumber:
If the water heater leaks or makes unusual noises, it’s time for professional servicing or replacement.
7. Sewer System Backup
A sewer backup is a plumbing nightmare and a potential health hazard.
Common Causes:
● Tree root intrusion
● Grease buildup
● Broken sewer lines
Warning Signs:
● Gurgling drains
● Water pooling in the basement
● Foul odours
Solution:
Call a licensed plumber immediately for inspection and repair.
8. Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are an emergency and can cause significant damage within minutes.
Common Causes:
● Freezing temperatures
● High water pressure
DIY Prevention:
● Insulate exposed pipes during winter.
● Let taps drip to relieve pressure.
Emergency Action:
Shut off the main water supply and call a plumber immediately.
9. Faulty Shower Valves
Inconsistent water temperature in your shower can make bathing unpleasant.
Common Causes:
● Malfunctioning thermostatic shower valves
● Mineral deposits affecting valve operation
DIY Fix:
Replace the shower valve cartridge using a guide specific to your model.
When to Call a Plumber:
If water pressure or temperature issues persist.
10. Sump Pump Failure
If your home relies on a sump pump, failure can result in basement flooding.
Common Causes:
● Power outages
● Lack of maintenance
DIY Fix:
● Test the sump pump regularly by pouring water into the sump pit.
● Clean the pump and pit to remove debris.
Pro Tip:
Invest in a backup battery system to ensure the sump pump functions during power outages.
Conclusion
Understanding these common plumbing problems and their solutions can help you avoid costly emergencies. However, some issues require professional expertise. At Baps-Taps, we pride ourselves on delivering fast, reliable, and affordable plumbing services across London.
Contact Us
Contact Baps-Taps today to schedule an inspection or repair. Let us help you keep your plumbing in top condition.