10 Common Plumbing Problems for Ottawa Homeowners and How to Fix Them

Living in Ottawa comes with its unique set of challenges, and plumbing issues are no exception. Taking into account the cold winters and changing conditions in the city, frozen water lines or burst pipes are something many homeowners will experience at some point. Fortunately, a number of common plumbing problems can be prevented and sometimes repaired by taking the right approach to solving them.

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Let’s go through 10 common plumbing problems Ottawa homeowners can experience and how to deal with them quickly, especially for those seeking plumbing Ottawa services. We’ll also share tips on how to prevent these issues from happening in the future. Take a look if you're in the capital!

Frozen Pipes

A close-up of a frozen pipe covered in thick layers of ice, with icicles hanging down. The pipe is entirely encased in ice, illustrating severe cold weather conditions and potential damage to plumbing.

In Ottawa, frozen pipes are a regular issue. If left untreated, they can burst and cause significant damage. To address this, turn on the faucets connected to the affected pipe and use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting. Gently warm the pipe from one end to the other to restore water flow and prevent further damage.

Clogged Drains

A kitchen sink filled with murky water, indicating a clogged drain. Food particles and grease float on the water's surface, with a sponge and dish soap nearby on the counter.

Drains can become clogged from a buildup of hair, grease, or food particles. You can use a plunger or plumber's snake (auger) to unclog the pipe. If you're unfamiliar with these tools or the clog persists, it's best to call a professional plumber for assistance.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can result from calcium buildup or rust inside the pipes. A mixture of vinegar and baking soda can help clean out the buildup and restore proper water flow. If the issue isn't resolved, it may be time to call a plumber for more extensive assistance.

Leaky Faucets

A close-up of a shiny chrome faucet with a single water droplet falling from the tap, against a dark background. The image highlights the precision of water control in a clean, minimalist environment.

Leaky faucets are often caused by worn-out washers or seals in the handles or valves. Turn off the water supply, unscrew the handles and valves, replace the washers and seals, then reassemble everything and turn the water back on.

Running Toilets

A running toilet is usually caused by a faulty flapper valve in the tank. Simply replace the old flapper valve or ensure it’s installed correctly to create a proper seal when closed.

Burst Pipes

A pipe leaking water under high pressure, with a visible burst near a joint. The water sprays forcefully from the break, against a red background, demonstrating the urgency of pipe repair.

Burst pipes are commonly caused by Ottawa's extreme temperature fluctuations or corrosion within the pipes. If a pipe bursts, immediately shut off the main water supply and contact a professional plumber to repair or replace the damaged section.

Sewer Backups

Sewer backups, often caused by blockages in the sewer line or tree roots infiltrating the pipes, require professional help. A plumber will need to clear out the blockage and remove any debris or roots obstructing the flow.

Slow Draining Tubs

Slow-draining tubs are usually caused by soap scum buildup or a deeper clog that can’t be resolved with a plunger or auger. You can use a chemical cleaner to dissolve the clog, or call a plumber if the issue persists.

No Hot Water

A lack of hot water is usually due to a malfunctioning water heater. You can try resetting the breaker or checking if the pilot light has gone out. If neither solution works, it may be time to replace the water heater or call a professional plumber.

Dripping Taps

Dripping taps are often caused by worn-out washers or seals in the handles or valves. To fix this, turn off the water supply, unscrew the handles and valves, replace the washers and seals, then reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.

In conclusion, Ottawa homeowners may encounter several common plumbing problems. When in doubt, it's always best to call a professional plumber who can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring your home stays free from plumbing troubles.

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