Common Plumbing Problems: A Complete Guide for Canadian Homeowners

Plumbing problems have a way of sneaking up on homeowners. One day, your water is flowing perfectly; the next, you’re battling a clogged drain or wondering why your shower pressure is a trickle. While some issues are minor and can be fixed with basic tools, others require a professional plumber’s expertise to prevent costly damage. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common plumbing problems, how to spot them early, simple DIY fixes, and when it’s time to call in the pros.

1. Clogged Drains

Why it happens: Hair, soap scum, food scraps, coffee grounds, and grease often build up in sink or tub drains. In some cases, tree roots or debris block the main sewer line.

Why it’s a problem: A slow or blocked drain can cause water backups, unpleasant odors, and even bacteria growth. Multiple clogs may signal a deeper issue in your plumbing system.

🏠 DIY fix: Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by boiling water, or clear the blockage with a drain snake. Avoid chemical cleaners.

When to call a plumber: If several drains are clogged or the blockage is in the main line.

📖 Read More: Clogged Drain? How to Fix It Fast

2. Low Water Pressure

Why it happens: Mineral deposits, corrosion in pipes, partially closed valves, or issues with the municipal water supply can all reduce water pressure.

Why it’s a problem: Low water pressure makes everyday tasks—showering, washing dishes, watering the garden—slow and frustrating. It can also indicate hidden leaks or failing plumbing components.

🏠 DIY fix: Check that your main shut-off valve is fully open, clean faucet aerators, and ensure you’re not running multiple water-heavy appliances at once.

When to call a plumber: If low pressure affects all fixtures or you suspect leaks, pipe corrosion, or a faulty pressure-reducing valve.

📖 Read More: Low Water Pressure: Common Causes and Simple Fixes

3. Leaky Faucet or Shower Leaks

Why it happens: Worn washers, O-rings, corroded valve seats, or poor installation can cause constant drips.

Why it’s a problem: Even a small drip from leaky faucets wastes gallons of water monthly, increasing utility bills and potentially leading to rust or water damage over time.

🏠 DIY fix: Replace worn washers or O-rings and check the faucet assembly for damage.

When to call a plumber: If the leak persists after DIY repair or if corrosion or installation issues are suspected.

📖 Read More: Leaky Faucet Repair Made Easy for Homeowners

4. Hot Water Loss

Why it happens: A water heater that’s too small, improperly located, or nearing the end of its lifespan may struggle to deliver consistent hot water. Sediment buildup in the tank is another common cause, as is a unit that hasn’t been upgraded to a modern tankless water heater.

Why it’s a problem: Inconsistent or no hot water disrupts daily routines and can leave you starting the day with a cold shower.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Flush sediment from the tank
• Check the thermostat setting.

When to call a plumber: If you notice leaks, ongoing hot water shortages, or suspect your hot water heater needs upgrading to a larger or tankless model.

📖 Read More: No Hot Water in Your House? 12 Causes and Fixes for BC Homeowners

5. Water Heater Issues

Why it happens: Over time, hot water heaters can develop leaks, corrosion, sediment buildup, a faulty pressure relief valve, or failing heating elements.

Why it’s a problem: These issues can cause water damage, poor water quality, high energy bills, or complete loss of hot water.

🏠 DIY fix: Relight a pilot light on a gas heater or replace an electric heating element if you’re confident in your skills.

When to call a plumber: For leaks, recurring problems, or when the heater is near the end of its 10–15 year lifespan.

📖 Read More: Hot Water Tank Maintenance: Why We Don’t Recommend It

6. Running Toilet

Why it happens: A worn flapper seal, faulty fill valve, or misaligned float in the toilet tank can cause water to flow continuously into the bowl.

Why it’s a problem: A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons per day, driving up your water bill and putting unnecessary strain on your plumbing system.

🏠 DIY fix: Test with food coloring in the tank to find leaks, then replace the flapper or fill valve as needed.

When to call a plumber: If repairs don’t stop the running or if water is leaking onto the floor.

7. Burst or Leaking Pipes

Why it happens: Freezing temperatures, corrosion, shifting soil, or high water pressure can weaken pipes until they crack or burst. Older copper pipes are particularly prone to corrosion over time.

Why it’s a problem: Sudden flooding from burst pipes can damage walls, floors, and personal belongings, while a hidden leaky pipe may cause mold, mildew growth, and structural damage over time.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Shut off the main water supply immediately
• Use pipe repair clamps or epoxy putty for a temporary seal.

When to call a plumber: Always, pipe bursts and leaky pipes require prompt professional repair to prevent costly water damage.

8. Sewer Line Backups

Why it happens: Tree root intrusion, collapsed pipes, grease buildup, or flushing non-flushable items can block sewer lines. In older homes, sewer line problems may stem from deteriorating clay or cast iron pipes.

Why it’s a problem:

• Sewage backups can damage flooring and create serious health hazards.
• Foul odors can spread throughout the home.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Limit water use until the plumbing problem is addressed.
• Avoid flushing wipes or pouring grease down drains.

When to call a plumber: If multiple drains back up at once, sewage appears in tubs or toilets, or you notice persistent foul smells indoors or outdoors.

9. Frozen Pipes

Why it happens: In cold Canadian winters, uninsulated pipes in exterior walls, crawl spaces, or basements can freeze. Cold weather combined with poor insulation is the most common cause.

Why it’s a problem:

• Frozen pipes block water flow entirely.
• As ice expands, it can cause a burst pipe.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Turn off the water supply.
• Gently thaw pipes with a space heater or warm towels—never use an open flame.

When to call a plumber: If you can’t locate the freeze, suspect a burst, or need help safely restoring water flow.

10. Sump Pump Failure

Why it happens: Power outages, stuck switches, clogged intakes, or pump wear-and-tear can stop sump pumps from working, especially during heavy rain or when snow melts rapidly.

Why it’s a problem:

• Leads to basement flooding during heavy rain or snowmelt.
• Can damage appliances, flooring, and stored items.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Test your sump pump before wet seasons.
• Clear debris from the sump pit and discharge line.

When to call a plumber: If the pump won’t start, makes unusual noises, or fails to keep water out during storms.

11. Clogged Toilet

Why it happens: Excess toilet paper, foreign objects, or build-up from hard water minerals can block the toilet trap or drain line.

Why it’s a problem:

• Overflow can damage floors and cause unsanitary conditions.
• May indicate a larger blockage in the sewer line.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Use a plunger with a flange for a tight seal.
• Try a toilet auger for stubborn clogs.

When to call a plumber: If clogs occur frequently or water backs up into other drains when you flush.

12. Leaky Outdoor Faucets

Why it happens: Freezing temperatures, worn washers, or damaged hose bibs can cause leaks at exterior faucets.

Why it’s a problem:

• Wastes water and can increase your utility bill.
• May cause water damage to siding, foundation, or landscaping.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Replace worn washers or tighten packing nuts.
• Disconnect hoses and the garden hose before winter to prevent freeze damage.

When to call a plumber: If leaks persist after repairs or you suspect hidden pipe damage inside the wall.

13. Downspout and Gutter Issues

Why it happens: Misaligned, disconnected, or clogged downspouts and gutters prevent proper drainage, allowing water to collect near the foundation.

Why it’s a problem:

• Leads to basement leaks and foundation damage.
• In winter, trapped water can freeze, damaging gutters and roofing.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Clear leaves and debris regularly.
• Install gutter guards to reduce clogs.

When to call a plumber: If water intrusion has already caused basement flooding or structural damage requiring drainage system repair.

14. Wet Spots on the Lawn

Why it happens: Leaking water lines, damaged sewer pipes, or poor yard grading can cause persistent wet patches.

Why it’s a problem:

• Can lead to sinkholes or damage to underground utilities.
• May indicate costly plumbing leaks.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Inspect sprinkler systems for leaks.
• Regrade low spots away from your home’s foundation.

When to call a plumber: If you notice standing water with no clear source, or suspect an underground pipe leak.

15. Water Stains in the Basement

Why it happens: Leaks from plumbing, poor drainage, or seepage through foundation walls can leave stains on basement walls or floors.

Why it’s a problem:

• Often a sign of chronic moisture that can cause mold growth.
• May indicate structural foundation issues.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Seal small cracks in foundation walls with hydraulic cement.
• Improve exterior grading and drainage.

When to call a plumber: If stains are accompanied by active leaks or musty odors suggesting mold growth.

16. Mildew in the Attic

Why it happens: Roof leaks, condensation, or moisture from overflowing gutters can reach attic spaces.

Why it’s a problem:

• Mildew can spread to insulation and framing.
• Mold spores pose health risks if left untreated.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Improve attic ventilation.
• Remove and replace moldy insulation.

When to call a plumber: If mildew stems from leaking plumbing lines in walls or ceilings.

17. Water Hammer

Why it happens: Sudden valve closures cause pressure surges, creating loud banging noises in pipes.

Why it’s a problem:

• Repeated surges can weaken joints and fittings.
• Noise can be disruptive and alarming.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Install water hammer arrestors.
• Secure loose pipes with clamps.

When to call a plumber: If noise persists or is accompanied by leaks or pressure problems.

18. Spiking Water Bill

Why it happens: Hidden leaks, running toilets, or outdated fixtures can drive up water consumption without you noticing.

Why it’s a problem:

• Unchecked leaks waste water and money.
• May point to damage behind walls or underground.

🏠 DIY fix:

• Check your water meter when all fixtures are off to detect leaks.
• Replace old faucets and toilets with water-efficient models.

When to call a plumber: If you can’t find the cause or suspect underground leaks in the main water line.

Conclusion

Plumbing issues range from minor inconveniences to major emergencies. In B.C., all plumbing work should comply with the BC Plumbing Code, which sets the technical requirements for the design, installation, alteration, and repair of plumbing systems.

The key is knowing when a DIY fix is enough and when it’s time to call in a professional plumber. Staying proactive with routine maintenance, prompt repairs, and seasonal inspections can help you avoid unexpected expenses.

If you ever face a plumbing emergency, don’t wait; an emergency plumber can prevent further damage and restore your system quickly. For reliable plumbing services from experienced professional plumbers in the North Okanagan, contact Vernon Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Services.