1. Dripping Faucets
That steady drip isn't just annoying — a faucet dripping once per second wastes roughly 3,000 gallons of water per year. The usual culprits are worn washers, O-rings, or cartridges inside the faucet body.
Quality faucets are usually worth repairing. If a budget fixture keeps failing, replacement often makes more sense than repeated fixes.
2. Running Toilets
A toilet that runs between flushes can waste hundreds of gallons a day. Most of the time the flapper has worn out and no longer seals, or the fill valve isn't shutting off properly.
A quick test: put a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If color appears in the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, the flapper is leaking.
3. Slow or Clogged Drains
Kitchen drains clog with grease and food debris; bathroom drains collect hair and soap scum. One slow drain is a local problem — several slow drains at once can signal a main line issue that deserves prompt professional attention.
Skip the chemical drain openers, especially in older Boston homes. They're hard on pipes and rarely remove the full blockage.
4. Low Water Pressure
Weak pressure at a single fixture usually means a clogged aerator or a failing cartridge. Low pressure throughout the house can indicate corroded galvanized piping, a partially closed valve, or a hidden leak.
If your pressure dropped suddenly, check whether your water bill has also risen — that combination often points to a leak.
5. Water Heater Trouble
Lukewarm water, popping or rumbling sounds, and rusty hot water are early signs of water heater problems. Sediment buildup is the most common cause and can often be resolved with a professional flush if caught early.
If your tank is leaking from the body itself — not a fitting — replacement is the only safe fix.
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber when a problem keeps returning, involves your main drain or supply line, requires opening walls or floors, or involves gas or major electrical connections. Early professional attention almost always costs less than the damage a neglected problem causes.
If you're seeing any of these issues in your Boston home, Boston Plumbing Pros is happy to help you get them resolved properly.