Plumbing problems can turn your home life upside down. A dripping tap, a clogged toilet, or low water pressure, even minor issues, can cause big frustration. Knowing how to fix common plumbing issues can save you time, stress, and money if you're a homeowner or a hands-on DIY enthusiast. But it's also vital to know when to roll up your sleeves and when to use professional plumbing services. 

Below, we dive into 10 of the most common plumbing problems and how to tackle them like a pro. And if you hit a wall, remember: the Rose Construction is just a call away.

What Are The Common Plumbing Issues and Their Solutions?

1. Dripping Taps

The Problem:That relentless drip, drip, drip isn't just annoying — it can waste hundreds of litres of water each year.

The Cause: Usually, a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the tap is to blame.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the water supply.
• Dismantle the tap using a spanner.
• Replace the washer or O-ring.
• Reassemble and test.

When to Call a Professional Plumber?
If your tap is a mixer or monobloc style, or if you’re unsure how to remove internal components, it’s safer to call an expert.

2. Clogged Drains

The Problem: Water is draining slowly — or worse, not at all.

The Cause: Hair, soap scum, grease, food waste, or foreign objects are often the culprits.

How to Fix It:

• Try a plunger to dislodge the blockage.
• Pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar down the drain followed by hot water.
• Use a drain snake or hand auger if needed.

When to Call an Expert Plumber?
If the blockage keeps returning or is affecting multiple drains, you might be dealing with a deeper pipe issue.

3. Running Toilet

The Problem: Your toilet never stops refilling — and your water bill keeps climbing.

The Cause: Worn-out flapper, float, or fill valve issues are typical.

How to Fix It:

• Open the cistern and inspect the flapper for wear or damage.
• Adjust or replace the float arm if the water level is too high.
• Consider installing a toilet repair kit.

When to Call a Professional?
If parts are corroded or water is leaking around the base, professional help is essential.

4. Low Water Pressure

The Problem: Taps and showers lack power, making everything from washing dishes to rinsing your hair frustrating.

The Cause: Mineral build-up in pipes or aerators, pipe leaks, or even a faulty pressure regulator.

How to Fix It:

• Clean the tap aerator or showerhead with vinegar.
• Check for leaks in visible pipes.
• Ensure your stopcock is fully open.

When to Call a Professional?

If cleaning doesn’t help or you suspect a hidden leak, it’s time to involve a plumber.

5. Blocked Toilet

The Problem: You flush — and the water rises ominously instead of going down.

The Cause: Toilet paper overload, sanitary products, or even kids’ toys are common offenders.

How to Fix It:

• Use a flange plunger to try to dislodge the clog.
• Try a toilet auger if plunging fails.

When to Call a Professional Plumber?

 If the toilet is backing up into other drains or you’ve tried everything without success.

6. Leaky Pipes

The Problem: You find damp spots, mould, or puddles under sinks.

The Cause: Loose joints, corrosion, or high water pressure causing pipe damage.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off your water supply immediately.
• Tighten joints or replace worn washers.
• Use pipe sealing tape as a temporary fix.

When to Call a Professional?

Any major leak, especially behind walls or ceilings, should be handled by a licensed plumber.

7. No Hot Water

The Problem: You step into a shower expecting warmth but get a freezing surprise.

The Cause: Issues with your boiler, thermostat, or heating element.

How to Fix It:

• Check the pilot light on gas water heaters.
• Reset the boiler or thermostat.
• Inspect for tripped circuit breakers.

When to Call an Expert Plubing Specialist?

Boiler issues can be dangerous. If you suspect a gas fault or electrical problem, call in a qualified technician.

8. Slow-Filling Toilet

The Problem: The cistern takes ages to refill, delaying every flush.

The Cause: Clogged fill valves, faulty float arms, or low water pressure.

How to Fix It:

• Inspect the fill valve and clean any debris.
• Adjust the float arm.
• Replace the valve if needed.

When to Call a Professional?

If replacing parts doesn’t improve fill speed, deeper pipe pressure issues might be the root cause.

9. Gurgling Drains

The Problem: Your sink or bath makes gurgling noises when draining.

The Cause: Blocked vents or partial clogs causing air bubbles in the plumbing system.

How to Fix It:

• Use a plunger or drain cleaner to clear partial clogs.
• Ensure outside vents (like soil pipes) are not blocked.

When to Call a Professional?

Gurgling can indicate serious venting issues that affect the whole system.

10. Water Heater Leaks

The Problem:

You spot water pooling around the base of your water heater.

The Cause:

Corrosion, broken valves, or excessive pressure build-up.

How to Fix It:

• Turn off the power or gas supply.
• Shut off the water inlet.
• Drain the tank to prevent further damage.

When to Call an Expert?

Water heater repairs are not a DIY job. Corrosion or tank replacement needs a qualified professional.

When DIY Isn’t Enough?

It’s empowering to fix things yourself, but plumbing isn’t always simple. A poorly fixed issue can lead to mould, water damage, or higher utility bills. Here’s when you should definitely call a professional plumber:

• Persistent leaks despite repairs
  
• Water damage or mould on walls and ceilings
  
• Problems with your boiler or water heater
  
• Clogs affecting multiple drains or fixtures
  
• Gas or foul odours from plumbing lines
  
• Burst pipes or water pooling in unusual places

Final Thoughts

Every home will face plumbing issues at some point. With the right tools, some basic knowledge, and a little patience, many problems can be sorted on your own. But knowing your limits is just as important.

At Rose Construction, we offer professional plumbing services in London.
Whether it's an emergency or a full installation, our experienced team is here to help. We believe in honest pricing, friendly service, and reliable results. Contact us today for expert plumbing solutions you can trust.