Top 5 Common Residential Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them

Avoid Costly Repairs with These Preventative Plumbing Tips


Plumbing problems are an inevitable part of homeownership, but knowing how to prevent them can save you time, money, and frustration. From clogged drains to leaky pipes, many common plumbing issues can be avoided with proper maintenance and care. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five most frequent residential plumbing problems and provide expert prevention tips to keep your plumbing system in top shape.


1. Clogged Drains


Problem:

Slow or completely blocked drains are one of the most common household plumbing issues. Hair, soap scum, grease, food debris, and foreign objects can build up over time, causing serious blockages.


Prevention Tips:

  • Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris before they go down the drain.
  • Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the sink.
  • Flush drains regularly with hot water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup.


2. Leaky Faucets


Problem:

A dripping faucet may seem like a minor issue, but it can waste gallons of water and increase your utility bill over time. Worn-out washers, seals, or corroded components are common culprits.


Prevention Tips:

  • Regularly check faucets for leaks and replace worn-out washers promptly.
  • Avoid turning faucets too tightly, as this can cause wear and tear.
  • Schedule periodic plumbing inspections to identify potential problems early.


3. Running Toilets


Problem:

A constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water daily. Faulty flapper valves, improperly adjusted float mechanisms, or leaks in the fill tube can be the cause.


Prevention Tips:

  • Inspect and replace faulty flappers, floats, or fill valves as needed.
  • Avoid using chemical toilet bowl cleaners, as they can damage components over time.
  • If your toilet is outdated, consider upgrading to a more water-efficient model.


4. Low Water Pressure


Problem:

Weak water pressure can make daily tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating. It may be caused by sediment buildup in pipes, leaks, or issues with the municipal water supply.


Prevention Tips:

  • Regularly clean aerators and showerheads to remove mineral buildup.
  • Check for hidden leaks and repair them promptly.
  • Install a water pressure regulator if needed to maintain a consistent flow.


5. Water Heater Issues


Problem:

No hot water, inconsistent heating, or strange noises from your water heater can indicate sediment buildup, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a failing heating element.


Prevention Tips:

  • Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and improve efficiency.
  • Set the thermostat to a safe and efficient temperature (120°F is recommended).
  • Schedule routine inspections to catch issues before they lead to a breakdown.


Dependable Plumbing: Your Trusted Residential Plumbing Experts

At Dependable Plumbing, we provide top-quality plumbing services to help homeowners prevent and resolve common plumbing issues. Our experienced team offers:



Call Dependable Plumbing for Expert Plumbing Solutions!

Don’t wait until a minor plumbing issue turns into a costly repair. Dependable Plumbing, Plumbing Services in North Georgia, is here to help with all your residential plumbing needs.


Call us today at (706) 698-5000 to schedule a service appointment!

Have plumbing problems?

Dependable Plumbing is Your One-Stop Solution for Emergency Plumbing Services, Leak Detection, Repair, and Septic Tank Maintenance


Call (706) 698-5000 for service today!

A close up of a black pipe on a white background, sewer line.
By Dependable Plumbing September 2, 2025
Fix Sewer Line Issues Without Digging Up Your Yard Sewer line problems used to mean extensive digging, costly repairs, and major disruptions to your property. Fortunately, trenchless sewer repair offers a modern, less invasive solution for North Georgia homeowners and businesses. This advanced technique allows for efficient pipe repair and replacement without the need for large-scale excavation. At Dependable Plumbing , we specialize in trenchless sewer repair to restore your plumbing system quickly and effectively. What is Trenchless Sewer Repair? Trenchless sewer repair is a method that allows plumbers to fix or replace underground sewer lines with minimal digging. This approach utilizes state-of-the-art technology to restore damaged pipes without disrupting driveways, landscaping, or sidewalks. There are two primary types of trenchless sewer repair: 1. Pipe Lining (Cured-in-Place Pipe - CIPP) This method involves inserting a flexible, resin-coated liner into the existing damaged pipe. Once in place, the liner hardens, creating a durable, seamless new pipe within the old one. 2. Pipe Bursting Pipe bursting involves breaking apart the old, damaged pipe while simultaneously pulling a new pipe into place. This method is ideal for replacing severely damaged or collapsed sewer lines. Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Repair 1. Less Disruption to Your Property Traditional sewer repairs require extensive digging, which can damage landscaping, driveways, and sidewalks. Trenchless technology minimizes excavation, preserving the appearance of your property. 2. Faster Repairs With trenchless methods, most sewer line repairs can be completed in a day, compared to several days or even weeks for traditional excavation repairs. 3. Cost-Effective Solution While the upfront cost may be slightly higher than traditional methods, trenchless sewer repair saves money in the long run by reducing labor costs, restoration expenses, and future maintenance. 4. Durable & Long-Lasting The materials used in trenchless repairs, such as epoxy liners and high-density polyethylene pipes, are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, root intrusion, and leaks, ensuring a long-lasting solution. 5. Environmentally Friendly Since trenchless repairs require less excavation, they minimize soil displacement and prevent unnecessary waste, making them an eco-friendly choice. When is Trenchless Sewer Repair the Right Choice? Trenchless sewer repair is ideal for homeowners and businesses experiencing: Frequent sewer backups or slow drains Sewer line leaks or foul odors Tree root intrusion in pipes Cracked, broken, or collapsed sewer lines Our experts at Dependable Plumbing will inspect your sewer line using advanced camera technology to determine if trenchless repair is the best option for your property. Dependable Plumbing: North Georgia’s Trenchless Sewer Repair Specialists Dependable Plumbing offers top-quality trenchless sewer repair services to homeowners and commercial property owners throughout North Georgia. Our skilled technicians use cutting-edge technology to diagnose and resolve sewer issues efficiently and with minimal disruption. Our Services Include: Sewer camera inspections Trenchless pipe lining Pipe bursting replacement Hydro jetting for drain cleaning Emergency sewer repair services Contact Dependable Plumbing for Trenchless Sewer Solutions Today! If you're dealing with sewer line problems, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. Call Dependable Plumbing at (706) 698-5000 to schedule a consultation and experience the benefits of trenchless sewer repair!
A white pipe is laying in the dirt. Sewer line.
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A bunch of plumbing tools and pipes on a white background
By Dependable Plumbing August 5, 2025
Enhance Your Home with Modern Plumbing Upgrades A well-functioning plumbing system is essential for comfort, efficiency, and home value. Whether you’re dealing with outdated pipes, low water pressure, or high utility bills, upgrading your plumbing system can bring significant benefits. North Georgia homeowners looking to improve their plumbing should consider modern solutions that enhance performance, save water, and reduce maintenance costs. Dependable Plumbing is here to guide you through the process and provide expert plumbing upgrade services. Why Upgrade Your Plumbing System? 1. Improved Water Efficiency Older plumbing systems often waste water due to leaks, corrosion, or inefficient fixtures. Upgrading to high-efficiency toilets, faucets, and showerheads can reduce water usage and lower utility bills. 2. Better Water Quality If you notice rust-colored water or an unpleasant taste, your pipes may be corroding. Replacing old galvanized or lead pipes with modern PEX or copper piping ensures cleaner, safer drinking water. 3. Increased Home Value A modern plumbing system is a strong selling point for potential buyers. Investing in updated plumbing not only improves daily comfort but also boosts your home’s resale value. 4. Reduced Risk of Plumbing Emergencies Aging pipes and outdated fixtures can lead to costly leaks, burst pipes, and water damage. Upgrading your plumbing system proactively helps prevent these issues and ensures long-term reliability. Top Plumbing Upgrades to Consider 1. Pipe Replacement & Repiping If your home still has old galvanized or polybutylene pipes, it’s time for an upgrade . Modern materials like PEX and copper provide better durability , water flow, and resistance to corrosion. 2. Tankless Water Heater Installation Switching to a tankless water heater provides endless hot water, lower energy consumption, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional water heaters. 3. Smart Plumbing Fixtures From motion-sensor faucets to WiFi-enabled leak detection systems , smart plumbing technology offers enhanced convenience, water savings, and real-time monitoring. 4. Sewer Line Replacement or Repair Frequent drain backups or foul odors may indicate sewer line problems. Trenchless sewer repair and hydro jetting are modern solutions that minimize disruption and extend the life of your system. 5. Water Filtration & Softening Systems Installing a whole-house water filtration system improves water taste, removes contaminants, and extends the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures by reducing hard water buildup. Dependable Plumbing: Your North Georgia Plumbing Upgrade Experts Dependable Plumbing specializes in providing high-quality plumbing upgrade services to homeowners throughout North Georgia. Our team of skilled plumbers can assess your system, recommend the best upgrades, and handle installations with precision and efficiency. Our Services Include: Whole-home repiping Tankless water heater installation Smart plumbing fixture upgrades Sewer and drain line repairs Water filtration system installation Upgrade Your Home’s Plumbing Today! If you’re ready to improve your home’s plumbing system, Dependable Plumbing is here to help. Call us today at (706) 698-5000 to schedule a consultation and start enjoying the benefits of modern plumbing upgrades!
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