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It is usually near where the water line enters the home, often in the basement, crawl space, garage, or along an exterior wall. Locate it before an emergency and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.

Common causes include a partially closed valve, a clogged aerator or showerhead, sediment buildup in pipes, a failing pressure regulator, or a leak in the line. If the problem affects only one fixture, the cause is usually local. If it affects the whole house, call a plumber.

Many plumbers recommend a camera inspection every few years, especially for older homes, homes with large trees nearby, or homes with a history of clogs. Inspection before buying a home is especially valuable.

Hair, grease, soap scum, and debris are the usual culprits. Try a plunger or a hand auger first. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes and are hazardous to handle. Repeated slow drains may signal a deeper blockage.

Tank water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years, and tankless units often last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Flushing the tank annually helps extend its life.

Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank causes this as water heats and bubbles through it. Flushing the tank can help. Persistent noise or reduced hot water may mean it is time for replacement.

The temperature and pressure relief valve on a water heater releases water if pressure or temperature becomes dangerously high. It should be tested periodically and replaced if it leaks continuously or fails to operate.

Look for a sudden jump in your water bill, damp spots on floors or walls, unexplained mold, sounds of running water when fixtures are off, and a water meter that moves when no water is in use. A simple meter test can help confirm a leak.

Common materials include copper, PEX, galvanized steel, CPVC, and cast iron. Older galvanized and cast iron pipes are prone to corrosion and may need replacement. Knowing your pipe type helps with maintenance and insurance decisions.

Often, yes. Galvanized pipes corrode from the inside, reducing water flow and pressure and sometimes causing discolored water. A licensed plumber can evaluate the condition and recommend a replacement plan.

A backflow preventer stops contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. Many municipalities require them for irrigation systems, boilers, and certain commercial properties. Check local codes.

Insulate exposed pipes, seal drafts near plumbing, keep cabinet doors open under sinks on cold nights, and let faucets drip during extreme cold. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off and drain outdoor faucets before winter.

Shut off the main water supply immediately, open faucets to relieve pressure, and turn off electricity to affected areas if water is nearby. Call a licensed plumber and your insurance company.

This is often caused by hydrogen sulfide produced by bacteria in the water heater or well water. Flushing or sanitizing the water heater may help. Well water should be tested, and a rotten egg smell from gas requires immediate evacuation and a call to your gas utility.

Rust-colored water often indicates corroding iron pipes or a water heater problem. Brown or yellow water can come from municipal main disturbances. Run cold water for a few minutes first, and call your utility if the problem persists.

A worn flapper, faulty fill valve, or misadjusted float is usually responsible. These parts are inexpensive and often easy to replace yourself.

Yes. Roots seek moisture and can enter small cracks or joints in sewer lines, causing blockages and eventual pipe damage. Sewer camera inspections and root treatment or pipe lining can address the problem.

Simple tasks like replacing a faucet washer or unclogging a drain are reasonable DIY projects. Gas lines, main sewer work, water heater installation, and anything requiring a permit should be handled by a licensed plumber.

Often, yes. Many jurisdictions require permits for new installations, pipe replacement, water heater work, and sewer repairs. Unpermitted work can cause problems when you sell the home or file an insurance claim.

Verify the plumber's license and insurance, ask for written estimates, check reviews and references, and be cautious of anyone who demands cash only or pressures you into immediate work. Ask whether they offer warranties on parts and labor.