Every homeowner in Bracknell has likely faced a plumbing issue at some point. From minor inconveniences to urgent repairs, plumbing problems can be stressful if not handled properly. At Bracknell Plumbing & Heating, we believe that knowing how to troubleshoot common plumbing problems can help you take action before things get out of hand. In this blog, we will cover some of the most frequent plumbing issues faced by residents of Bracknell, as well as some practical tips on how to fix them. However, some problems will require professional intervention to ensure they are solved efficiently and safely.
1. Dripping Taps
One of the most common plumbing problems in homes is a dripping tap. While a dripping tap may seem like a minor issue, it can lead to significant water wastage and increase your water bill over time. The cause is usually a worn-out washer, O-ring, or valve seat.
How to Fix It: You can fix a dripping tap by replacing the faulty part, such as the washer. First, ensure the water supply is turned off. Then, disassemble the tap, replace the worn component, and reassemble the tap. If the problem persists, the tap may need to be reseated or replaced entirely and you may want to call a professional plumber for help.
2. Blocked Drains
Blocked drains are another frequent problem in Bracknell homes, often caused by a buildup of hair, grease, soap, or foreign objects. This issue can cause unpleasant odours, slow drainage, and in severe cases, flooding.
How to Fix It: Minor blockages can often be cleared using a plunger or a drain auger (also called a drain cleaner). For stubborn blockages, a chemical drain cleaner may be necessary, but it’s important to use these with caution as they can damage your pipes over time. If DIY methods don’t work, or if the blockage is recurring, it’s best to consult a professional plumber who can use more advanced tools like hydro-jetting to clear the drain effectively.
3. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make daily tasks such as showering and washing dishes frustrating. The problem can be localised to one fixture or affect your entire plumbing system. Common causes include a build-up of limescale, corroded pipes, or leaks in the system.
How to Fix It: Start by checking if the issue is isolated to a single tap or affects multiple fixtures. If it’s just one tap, the problem might be in the aerator, which can be easily cleaned. If the issue affects the entire house, it could indicate a more serious issue like a pipe leak or corrosion. In such cases, contacting a plumber for a proper diagnosis and repair is recommended.
4. Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste hundreds of litres of water a day if left unchecked. The culprit is often a faulty flapper valve or a problem with the float mechanism.
How to Fix It: To fix a running toilet, first inspect the flapper valve. If it’s worn out or damaged, replace it with a new one, which can be found at most hardware stores. Alternatively, check the float. If it’s set too high, the tank will overflow and cause continuous running. Adjust the float so that the water level stops about an inch below the top of the overflow tube. If these fixes don’t solve the problem, it’s time to call a professional to assess the internal workings of the toilet.
5. Burst Pipes
Burst pipes are a serious plumbing issue, especially during the colder months when pipes can freeze and expand. This can lead to significant water damage in your home if not addressed quickly.
How to Fix It: If you suspect a pipe has burst, turn off your main water supply immediately to prevent further flooding. You can attempt to repair minor leaks using a pipe repair clamp or epoxy putty, but larger breaks will require professional assistance.
6. Leaky Radiators
Heating issues can be just as inconvenient as plumbing problems. A leaky radiator may seem like a small issue but can cause significant damage to flooring and walls over time. Leaks often occur due to loose valves, worn-out seals, or corrosion within the radiator.
How to Fix It: If the leak is coming from the valve, try tightening it slightly with a spanner. If this doesn’t stop the leak, the valve may need replacing. If the problem is caused by corrosion, it’s likely that the radiator itself will need to be replaced. For any central heating problems, it’s always best to call in a heating engineer to ensure the issue is dealt with properly.
7. Boiler Issues
A malfunctioning boiler can leave you without heating or hot water, particularly during the winter months. Common boiler issues include low pressure, strange noises, or complete failure.
How to Fix It: If your boiler is losing pressure, you can try topping it up using the filling loop, which is usually found underneath the unit. However, if the problem is more complex—such as unusual noises or error codes flashing—it’s crucial to contact a professional heating engineer for boiler repairs. Regular maintenance can prevent many boiler problems from occurring in the first place, so consider having your boiler serviced annually by a gas-safe engineer.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While some plumbing issues can be tackled with a bit of DIY knowledge, others require the expertise of a professional. Attempting to fix more complex problems without the right tools or experience can often lead to more damage and higher repair costs. For instance, issues like burst pipes, persistent blockages, and boiler malfunctions should be dealt with by a qualified engineer to ensure they are fixed correctly and safely.
At Bracknell Plumbing & Heating, we provide expert plumbing and heating services for all types of issues, from minor repairs to major installations. Whether it’s a leaky tap or a boiler breakdown, our experienced team is here to help.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Plumbing in Top Condition
Dealing with plumbing problems is an inevitable part of homeownership, but with the right knowledge, many issues can be quickly addressed before they turn into expensive repairs. However, for larger or recurring problems, it’s always best to seek professional advice.
If you’re experiencing any plumbing issues and need assistance from a reliable plumber in Bracknell or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact Bracknell Plumbing & Heating. Our team of qualified engineers is on hand to provide expert solutions, ensuring your home’s plumbing and heating systems are functioning smoothly. Get in touch today to schedule a service or for emergency repairs!
