FAQ
Water Leaks – Common Causes & Warning Signs
What are the signs of a water leak in my home?
Common indicators of a water leak include:
- Higher-than-normal water bills without increased usage
- Damp or wet spots on walls or ceilings
- Hearing running water when no fixtures are in use
- Toilets refilling or flushing on their own
Pipes can develop pinhole leaks over time, especially in copper and galvanized piping. CPVC piping may become brittle as it ages, leading to cracks or leaking fittings. Faucets and hose bibs may also leak due to cartridge or gasket failure.
Even small leaks can cause serious damage to drywall, framing, and insulation, and may lead to mold growth, which is a potential health hazard. Constantly running toilets or dripping faucets can cause your water meter to continuously spin, resulting in high water bills.
Clogged Drains & Sewer Backups
What Causes Drains to Clog or Sewer Lines to Back Up?
Common causes include:
- Hair, grease, wipes, and debris accumulating in drain lines
- Gurgling sounds or foul odors when toilets flush or fixtures are used
- Multiple drains backing up at the same time
Underground sewer backups are often caused by tree root intrusion, damaged pipes, or shifting soil. These issues can lead to major blockages and may prevent the plumbing system from functioning properly.
Properly installed drain and sewer lines are designed to flow freely when installed to code with the correct slope. You should never see standing water in sinks or showers, and toilets should flush normally without slow drainage.
Low Water Pressure Issues
Why is My Water Pressure Low Throughout the House?
Low or uneven water pressure may be caused by:
- Corrosion inside older pipes restricting water flow
- Mineral buildup inside fixtures and faucets
- Supply issues or leaks on the main water line
- A faulty water meter or check valve installed by the city
Over time, pipe corrosion can reduce a pipe’s internal diameter, significantly limiting water flow and pressure. Mineral deposits may also damage faucet cartridges and aerators, further reducing pressure.
A leak on the main water line outside the home can also cause pressure loss before water reaches the property.
Sewer Line Problems & Soggy Yard Areas
What does a soggy lawn or sewer smell in the yard mean?
Warning signs of a sewer line problem include:
- Persistent wet or soggy areas in the yard
- Strong sewer odors outdoors
- Multiple drains backing up simultaneously
Soggy lawn areas often indicate a broken or collapsed sewer line underground. Clay soil can shift with moisture changes, placing stress on buried pipes and causing cracks or separations.
When sewage escapes underground, it can wash away soil and create voids, allowing pipes to shift further and collect debris—eventually leading to complete sewer stoppages.
Water Heater Problems
What are common water heater issues?
Typical water heater problems include:
- Insufficient hot water
- Knocking or rumbling noises
- Inconsistent water temperatures
- Rotten egg or sulfur smell from hot water only
- Aging or poorly maintained equipment
A sulfur smell is usually caused by mineral buildup and a deteriorated anode rod, which requires flushing and replacement. Knocking noises often indicate hardened sediment inside the tank, reducing efficiency and signaling potential failure.
Inconsistent hot water may be caused by faulty heating elements, mixing cartridges allowing cold water into hot lines, gas valve issues, or flow restrictions in tankless systems. Tankless water heaters may also require descaling due to mineral buildup in the heat exchanger.
Average water heater lifespan:
- Tank water heaters: 8–10 years
- Tankless water heaters: 10–15 years (with proper maintenance)
Do You Charge a Trip or Diagnostic Fee?
Yes. We charge a service trip and diagnostic fee to dispatch a licensed professional plumber to your home or business.
Service details:
- Minimum service time: 2 hours
- Service trip and diagnostic fee: $200.00
This ensures a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis of your plumbing issue.
Thank You for Your Trust
We extend our sincerest thanks to all our customers who have taken the time to share their experiences with South Texas Piping. Your trust in us to handle your plumbing needs is something we never take for granted. Whether it’s through a formal review or a personal recommendation to friends and family, we appreciate your support and feedback.
If you are experiencing any of the issues above, contacting a licensed plumber from SOUTH TEXAS PIPING early can help prevent costly damage and repairs.