Plumbing issues can disrupt your home and lead to costly damage if not addressed promptly. Understanding common plumbing repairs empowers homeowners to tackle minor problems or know when to call a professional. In 2025, with rising repair costs, being proactive about plumbing repairs can save you time and money. From leaky faucets to clogged drains, here are 10 frequent plumbing issues every homeowner should be familiar with, along with tips to handle them.
1–5: Everyday Plumbing Repairs You Can Often Fix Yourself
1. Leaky Faucet: A dripping faucet wastes water and spikes bills. Most leaks stem from worn-out washers or O-rings, which you can replace for $5–$20 using a wrench and screwdriver.
2. Clogged Drain: Hair, grease, or debris can block sinks or showers. Use a plunger, drain snake ($10–$30), or a vinegar-baking soda mix before calling a plumber.
3. Running Toilet: A constantly running toilet can waste gallons of water daily. Replace the flapper or fill valve ($10–$25) inside the tank to fix most issues.
4. Low Water Pressure: Mineral buildup in showerheads or faucet aerators often causes weak flow. Soak the fixture in vinegar or replace it for $10–$50.
5. Slow-Draining Sink: A partially clogged trap under the sink may be the culprit. Remove and clean the P-trap or use a drain snake to restore flow.
These DIY-friendly plumbing repairs require basic tools and minimal experience, but always turn off the water supply before starting.
6–10: Complex Plumbing Repairs Best Left to Pros
6. Burst Pipe: A burst pipe causes flooding and major damage. Shut off the main water valve and call a plumber immediately; repairs cost $200–$1,000.
7. Water Heater Failure: No hot water? Sediment buildup or a faulty heating element may be to blame. Professional water heater repairs range from $150–$800.
8. Sewer Line Backup: Foul odors or gurgling drains signal a sewer issue. Pros use cameras and hydro-jetting to fix it, costing $500–$3,000.
9. Faulty Garbage Disposal: Jams or leaks in disposals often require motor replacement or sealing. Repairs cost $100–$400 professionally.
10. Sump Pump Failure: A failed sump pump risks basement flooding. Professional repairs or replacement run $200–$1,200.
These complex plumbing repairs involve specialized tools and expertise, making professional help the safer choice.
Tips for Successful Plumbing Repairs
For DIY plumbing repairs, invest in a basic toolkit (wrench, plunger, drain snake) and watch tutorials for guidance. Always know your main water shut-off location to prevent accidents. For major issues like burst pipes or sewer backups, hire a licensed plumber to avoid costly mistakes. Regular maintenance, like checking for leaks or flushing your water heater, can prevent many problems.
Conclusion
Knowing these 10 common plumbing repairs equips you to handle minor issues and recognize when to call a pro. From fixing leaky faucets to addressing sewer backups, staying informed keeps your home’s plumbing in top shape. Want to dive deeper? Check out our guide on essential home maintenance tips to prevent costly repairs!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I handle most plumbing repairs myself?
Simple repairs like leaky faucets or clogged drains are DIY-friendly with basic tools, but complex issues like burst pipes require professional expertise.
2. How much do professional plumbing repairs cost in 2025?
Costs vary: $100–$400 for minor fixes (e.g., faucet repair) and $500–$3,000 for major issues like sewer line repairs.
3. How can I prevent plumbing repairs?
Regular maintenance, such as checking for leaks, cleaning drains, and flushing your water heater annually, can prevent many common plumbing issues.