Common Plumbing Problems and Their Solutions in San Angelo
Reviewed by Texas Elite
Master Plumbing License: M-42172 | TREC #592443
HVAC License: TACLA167158E
Most plumbing problems start small: a drip, a slow drain, a toilet that won’t stop running. Left alone, they waste water, raise your bills and can turn into much bigger repairs.
Already tried the quick fixes? Call (325) 777-1981 and a licensed plumber can take a look.
Here are the 6 most common plumbing problems in San Angelo homes, what usually causes them, what you can safely try yourself, and when it’s time to call a plumber.
Dripping Faucets and Leaky Fixtures
Most drips come from a worn washer, O-ring or cartridge inside the faucet. San Angelo’s very hard water speeds this up, because mineral scale wears down seals and clogs aerators faster than in soft-water areas.
What you can try: Shut off the supply valves under the sink first. Then replace the washer or cartridge with a matching part. Don’t overtighten the handle to stop a drip, because that can damage the parts inside.
When to call a plumber: The faucet still drips after a new cartridge, water is leaking from the base or under the sink, or the shutoff valves won’t close.
Slow or Clogged Drains
Grease, soap scum, hair, and food scraps are the usual causes.
What you can try: Use a plunger or a hand drain snake. Skip chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes and are hazardous to handle.
When to call a plumber: The same drain keeps clogging, or several drains are slow at once. That often points to a problem in the main line. Learn why a clogged drain keeps coming back.
Running Toilets
A toilet that runs on and off usually has a worn flapper, a chain that’s too short or tangled, or a fill valve set too high.
What you can try: Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing. If color shows up in the bowl, the flapper is leaking and needs to be replaced. If water is spilling into the overflow tube, lower the float.
When to call a plumber: If it still runs after a new flapper, the tank or base is leaking, or the toilet rocks on the floor.
Low Water Pressure
If only one faucet or showerhead is weak, the aerator or showerhead is usually clogged with mineral scale. That’s very common with San Angelo’s hard water. If pressure is low throughout the house, the cause is bigger: a failing pressure-reducing valve, a main valve that isn’t fully open, old corroded pipes, or a hidden leak.
What you can try: Unscrew and clean the aerator or soak the showerhead in vinegar. For whole-house low pressure, make sure the main shutoff is fully open and ask a neighbor whether their pressure is low too.
When to call a plumber: Pressure is low everywhere, and the main valve is fully open, or pressure dropped suddenly.
Water Heater Problems
Lukewarm water, popping noises, and rusty hot water usually come from sediment buildup, a failing heating element or thermostat, or a pilot or igniter problem. Hard water makes sediment build up faster.
What you can try: For an electric heater, check whether the breaker has tripped. For a gas heater, check whether the pilot is lit and relight it only by following the instructions on the unit’s label. If you smell gas, don’t relight anything. Leave the house and call your gas company or 911 from outside.
When to call a plumber: The tank is leaking, the water is rusty, or the heater still won’t heat. See the 5 signs your water heater needs repair.
Hidden Leaks and Slab Leaks
Hidden leaks can cause mold, damage walls and floors, and in slab leaks, affect the foundation. Warning signs include a sudden jump in your water bill, a musty smell, warm spots on the floor, and the sound of running water when nothing is on.
What you can try: Turn off every faucet and appliance, then check your water meter. If it’s still moving, water is leaking somewhere.
When to call a plumber: The meter test shows movement, or you see any of the warning signs above. Hidden leaks need professional leak detection to find without unnecessary demolition. Learn the signs of a slab leak.
DIY Fix or Call a Plumber? Quick Guide
Problem | Often DIY | Call a plumber |
Dripping faucet | Replace the washer or cartridge | Leak at the base or under the sink |
Slow drain | Plunger or hand snake | Repeated clogs or several slow drains |
Running toilet | Replace the flapper, adjust the float | Leaks at the tank or base |
Low pressure at one fixture | Clean the aerator or showerhead | — |
Low pressure everywhere | Check the main valve | Pressure regulator, pipes, or leaks |
Water heater | Check the breaker or pilot | Leaks, rusty water, no heat |
Hidden leak | Water meter test | Locating and repairing the leak |
Not sure if it’s a DIY job? Request a free inspection.
Plumbing Problems FAQs
What is the most common plumbing problem in homes?
Dripping faucets, clogged drains and running toilets are among the most common. Most start small and are easy to fix early.
Why is my water pressure low in only one faucet?
The aerator is usually clogged with mineral scale. Unscrew it, rinse it, and soak it in vinegar if it’s crusted.
How do I know if I have a hidden water leak?
Turn off all water in the house and watch your water meter. If it keeps moving, there’s a leak. Other signs include a higher water bill, musty smells and damp spots.
Need a Plumber in San Angelo?
Small plumbing problems are easier and cheaper to fix early. If a DIY fix didn’t work, or you’d rather have it handled right the first time, Texas Elite’s licensed plumbers can help. Call (325) 777-1981 or see our plumbing services in San Angelo.
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