Gastonia Plumbing Problems: What's Wrong and What to Do
Find the symptom you're seeing. Each entry gives the most likely cause, a safe first step you can take now, and the service that fixes it. Red items need attention right away.
| Symptom | Likely cause | Do this first | Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaking pipe | Failed fitting, pinhole, corrosion or freeze damage | Close the nearest valve or the main shutoff. | Pipe RepairGuide: Signs of a Hidden Plumbing Leak |
| Clogged drain | Grease, hair, wipes or buildup in a branch line | Plunge once; skip chemical cleaners. | Drain CleaningGuide: Why Drains Keep Clogging |
| Overflowing toilet | Clog in the toilet trap or the main line | Push the flapper down, close the valve behind the toilet. | Toilet Repair |
| No hot water | Tripped breaker, failed element, pilot or gas valve | Check the breaker or pilot light. | Water Heater RepairGuide: Water Heater Repair vs. Replacement |
| Sewer backup | Main line blocked by roots, wipes or grease | Stop using all water in the house. | Main Line ClogsGuide: Signs of a Sewer Line Problem |
| Low water pressure | Aerator, valve, regulator, galvanized pipe or a leak | Check if it's one fixture or the whole house. | Low Water Pressure RepairGuide: Why Water Pressure Drops |
| Burst pipe | Frozen water split the pipe | Shut off the main and open a low faucet. | Burst Pipe RepairGuide: What to Do When a Pipe Bursts |
| Leaking water heater | Fitting or relief valve leak, or a failed tank | Close the cold inlet; turn off power or gas. | Water Heater RepairGuide: Water Heater Repair vs. Replacement |
| Dripping faucet | Worn cartridge or seals | Close the valves under the sink if it's bad. | Faucet & Fixture Repair |
| Sewer smell | Dry trap, wax ring, vent or cracked drain | Run water in unused drains. | Drain CleaningGuide: What Causes Sewer Odors? |
| High water bill | Running toilet or hidden leak | Do the meter test with everything off. | Leak DetectionGuide: Signs of a Hidden Plumbing Leak |
| Blocked sewer line | Roots in older clay or cast-iron pipe | Don't open the cleanout under pressure. | Sewer Line RepairGuide: Signs of a Sewer Line Problem |
Smell gas?
Gas leaks aren't a plumbing problem to troubleshoot. Leave the building without using switches, then call the gas utility or 911 from outside. After it's made safe, see gas line services.
Gastonia · Gaston County, NC
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