At C. Lee Services, we use more than three decades of experience to help customers understand what is happening with their plumbing systems and what steps may be needed to resolve problems correctly. This resource provides straightforward guidance on common concerns, from fixture issues to sewer line complications, so you can make informed decisions about your home or building. The team at C. Lee Services is committed to offering reliable information and dependable service whenever you need professional support.
Here, we answer a few questions homeowners have about everyday plumbing problems.
I just became a homeowner. What are some of the most common plumbing issues I should expect?
Plumbing problems appear in many forms, and they rarely occur at convenient times. Some of the most frequent issues seen in residential and commercial properties include:
- Clogged toilet
- Clogged bath or shower drain
- Faulty water heater
- Jammed garbage disposal
- Leaky faucets
- Leaky pipes
- Low water pressure
- Running toilet
- Sewage odor inside the home
- Sewer system backup
- Slow-draining sink
How do I fix a leaking toilet?
Start by identifying where the leak originates. If water is pooling around the base, tightening the floor bolts may resolve the issue. If it continues, the toilet must be removed so the wax ring beneath it can be replaced.
When water leaks from the tank, inspect the tank for cracks and confirm that the supply hose is firmly connected to the base. If your toilet is older, a full replacement may be the most practical option. The team at C. Lee Services can assist with repairs or installation if needed.
Is there a way to clean my plumbing system?
While basic steps help reduce buildup, a complete cleaning of your plumbing system should be performed by trained professionals. Hydro jetting is an effective, chemical-free method that removes debris, clogs, and intrusive tree roots.
To reduce the likelihood of drain clogs and sewer backups, consider:
- Avoid placing coffee grounds, bones, grease, or fruit peels in the garbage disposal
- Run cold water whenever using the disposal
- Use a drain strainer if no disposal is present
- Never pour grease or oil down the drain
- Run hot water after washing dishes to clear grease residue
- Clean tub and shower drain stoppers routinely
- Only flush waste and toilet paper
- Pump septic tanks every two to three years
Preventative Plumbing Treatments
Routine maintenance is the best way to reduce emergency plumbing needs. Scheduling a camera inspection every two to three years helps identify developing problems before they escalate.
How do I know if I have a pipe leak?
Leak detection can be challenging, especially when a pipe is hidden underground or behind walls. Common indicators include:
- Higher-than-normal water bills
- Sound of running water when all fixtures are off
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Damp or moist flooring
- Isolated patches of rapid yard growth
If you notice one or more of these signs, contact a plumber for leak detection services.
How do I keep my pipes from freezing?
Homes in colder regions must be protected against freezing temperatures to avoid pipe damage. Frozen pipes can result in minor inconvenience or costly replacement. To reduce the risk, follow these steps:
- Heating cable: Install heating cable along exposed pipes and cover with insulation. Insulation alone is not enough without the cable.
- Visual inspection: Look for visible cracks around the foundation or basement and seal them with spray foam or caulking.
- Shut off outdoor valves: Open outdoor faucets to drain excess water, then turn off the valves to prevent freezing.
- Open cabinet doors: Allow warm indoor air to reach pipes located behind cabinet doors.
How do I stop tree roots from invading my plumbing?
Tree roots can cause significant plumbing damage because they spread underground and can infiltrate pipes undetected. The specialists at C. Lee Services understand how quickly this can escalate into major repairs or full pipe replacement. If you suspect a tree root intrusion, schedule a camera inspection and follow these long-term prevention measures:
- Root barrier: Dig an 18 to 24-inch trench around the root zone and install a barrier to limit root growth.
- Routine maintenance: Camera inspections every two to three years help detect intrusive roots early.
- Sewer line cleaning: Hydro jetting keeps sewer lines clear and cuts through roots when necessary.
- Tree removal: If a tree repeatedly invades your plumbing, professional removal may be less expensive than ongoing repairs.
Will you have to tear up my yard to repair the sewer line?
C. Lee Services can complete sewer repairs without excavation. Using trenchless sewer repair methods, we can fix sewer line issues while protecting your yard, driveway, flooring, and landscaping. This technology allows technicians to fix breaks or leaks with minimal disruption.
Other trenchless services include:
- Sewer camera inspections
- Drain cleaning
- Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining
- Pipe bursting
Call C. Lee Services for More Thorough Assistance
C. Lee Services is committed to helping homeowners and businesses maintain their plumbing systems. As a local plumber in Akron, OH, our team provides clear timelines and can make sure your property is treated with care throughout every service.
We’re the company to call for quality plumbing repairs, maintenance, and everything in between. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
