Homeownership naturally invites DIY projects. Many repairs around the house are manageable with the right tools and preparation. Plumbing, however, is one area where understanding the limits of DIY is critical. Some plumbing tasks are appropriate for homeowners. Others carry hidden risks that can lead to water damage, code violations, or larger repairs.

Understanding the difference between a minor clog and a recurring issue can help homeowners prevent larger plumbing problems and avoid costly damage.

Slow drains are often your plumbing system’s way of signaling that something deeper is developing. Understanding what causes slow drains, the risks of ignoring them, and when professional help is needed can prevent much larger problems down the road.

A running toilet is rarely just an annoyance. It’s often a warning sign of hidden water waste, internal wear, or developing plumbing issues that can quietly cost homeowners money over time.

Common Toilet Problems (And What They’re Trying to Tell You)

Minor plumbing leaks are easy to dismiss, but they are one of the most common ways homeowners end up facing major repairs. What starts as a small drip can quietly cause water damage, mold growth, and structural issues long before it feels like an emergency.

Some of the most damaging plumbing problems are the ones you can’t see. Hidden leaks often develop slowly (behind walls, under floors, or underground) causing water damage and higher utility bills long before there’s an obvious sign of trouble. Our 3rd Rock Plumbing series can help you learn how to read your water meter or suggest options for those on wells.

Typical Toilet Issues Homeowners Face - And How to Prevent Costly Water Leaks. Most toilet issues start small, and with a little awareness, homeowners can catch them early and keep their plumbing in great shape.

If your faucets are sputtering, spraying sideways, or the flow just isn’t what it used to be, the tiny hero called an aerator is probably clogged. Good news: cleaning it is quick, costs almost nothing, and can lower water bills by keeping fixtures efficient.

What Is High-Pressure Drain Cleaning? High-pressure drain cleaning is exactly what it sounds like: using powerful water jets to clear out your pipes. Instead of relying on chemicals or mechanical snakes, this method uses a specialized hose that shoots water at extremely high pressure. The force of the water scrubs the inside of your pipes clean, removing grease, hair, soap scum, and even tree roots.

Plumbing problems can be frustrating, especially when they strike unexpectedly. At 3rd Rock Plumbing, we’ve been serving homeowners across the foothills region for years, and we’ve noticed some common patterns. From older homes with outdated pipes to seasonal issues like frozen lines, here are the top plumbing problems we see—and what you can do to avoid them.