Signs You Have Major Plumbing Issues
Plumbing problems can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and higher bills if not caught early. Look out for warning signs like leaks, mold, or running toilets to address issues before they worsen. Since plumbing is often hidden, identifying problems can be challenging.
In this blog, we’ll cover common plumbing problems and how to fix them.
Top Signs of Plumbing Issues
Wall or Ceiling Paint Bubbling

Most water leaks start small, dripping onto surfaces. Act quickly and call a plumber as soon as you spot any leaks or leaking pipes in your walls. Water seeping through paint or ceilings can cause bubbling or peeling. If you see bubbles, blisters, or discoloration in your wall or ceiling paint, call a plumber right away—unchecked leaks can damage your walls.
Discoloured Water

Discolored or odd-smelling water is usually a clear sign of underlying plumbing issues, such as corroded pipes, rust, or mineral buildup within your system. Brown, yellow, or red water often points to aging or deteriorating pipes, while green or blue water is typically a result of copper oxidation, which can occur in plumbing with copper materials. These issues not only affect the quality of your water but, if left unresolved, can lead to leaks, reduced water pressure, or even major damage to your plumbing system.
Ignoring these warning signs could result in costly repairs down the line. To ensure your water is safe, clean, and clear, it’s best to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible for an inspection and the necessary repairs.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is a common issue in plumbing systems that can stem from various causes, such as clogged aerators, pipe damage, leaks, or improperly sized pipes that fail to handle the water flow effectively. In some cases, the problem may even originate from the water supplier, where maintenance work or low pressure in the main supply line can affect your home. Low water pressure can be frustrating, impacting everything from showering to washing dishes.
Slow Drainage
Clogged drains and low water pressure are common plumbing issues, ranging from minor annoyances to major headaches. Simple clogs, like hair or soap buildup, can often be fixed with baking soda, vinegar, or a pipe snake. But if clogs keep coming back in your drain line or pipes drain slowly, it could signal a bigger problem, like a damaged sewage line.
Low water pressure might be due to a clogged showerhead, a leak, or blocked pipes. If you’re dealing with stubborn clogs, pooling water, or low pressure throughout your home, it’s time to call a plumber to sort it out.
Tapping Sounds
Do you hear tapping or knocking sounds from your pipes when you turn on the shower or run the dishwasher? This could mean a pressure issue or a loose support strap not holding the pipes properly. High water pressure can make pipes shift and bang into nearby surfaces—or each other—causing damage over time.
This may lead to leaks, bends, or even burst pipes. Ignoring these sounds could result in costly repairs, so if the tapping or pounding persists, call a plumber to fix the issue before it gets worse.
Consistent Dripping

That “drip, drip” from your faucet might seem minor, but it could signal bigger plumbing issues like high water pressure, worn seals, or a faulty valve. Beyond the noise, it can wear down fixtures, causing corrosion, cracks, or even failure.
Plus, wasted water adds to your utility bills. Ignoring it could lead to costly repairs or replacements. Don’t wait—call a plumber for a quick fix.
High Water Bills
Noticed your water bills climbing even though you’re not using more water? You might have a hidden leak. Leaks can hide behind walls, under floors, or in outdoor pipes, wasting water and driving up your bills. They can also cause serious damage to your home, like mold, rotting wood, or weakened drywall.
Lush Grass
Got a lush, unusually green patch of grass in your yard? It might be more than just a gardening win—it could be a sign of a leaking sewer line. Sewer leaks release nutrients and moisture into the soil, effectively acting like fertilizer and causing rapid grass growth in that specific area. While it might seem like a harmless quirk, a leaking sewer line can lead to bigger problems, such as soil erosion, unpleasant odors, or even damage to your property. It’s worth investigating to prevent costly repairs down the line!
You might also notice standing water or a strange smell, both clear signs of a potential plumbing emergency. A leaking sewer line isn’t just bad for your yard—it can also pose health risks and attract pests due to the bacteria and waste it releases.
Sewer Odor
If your drains smell like sewage, it’s a clear sign something’s wrong. This odor could mean a clogged drain, venting issue, or broken sewer line. Food scraps, grease, or debris often get stuck in pipes, leading to bacteria buildup and the bad smell. If ignored, blockages can worsen, causing backups, water damage, and unsanitary conditions.
A sewer smell in your home or yard could signal a bigger issue with your septic or sewer system. To solve the problem and get your plumbing working again, call a drain cleaning expert for an inspection and cleaning.
Noticed These Signs? Address Major Plumbing Issues Quickly with a Professional Plumber.
Issues like these can quickly escalate if ignored, leading to costly plumbing repairs and potential health hazards. Calling an experienced plumber ensures accurate diagnosis, proper fixes, and peace of mind. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent major problems, so act quickly at the first signs of trouble to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
If you’re in Sacramento, then choose Fix-It Rite for all your professional plumbing needs. Call us at 916-363-6022 today for plumbing repair including emergency calls. Don’t wait until it's too late.