Home Plumbing Check: Find Small Leaks Before They Turn Into Repairs

Home Plumbing Check: Find Small Leaks Before They Turn Into Repairs

A quick monthly walkthrough can catch the small stuff—drips, slow leaks, loose supply lines—before it becomes water damage. The U.S. EPA notes that common household leaks can waste 90 gallons or more per day, so even “minor” leaks are worth hunting down.

What you need (5 minutes)

Grab a flashlight, a paper towel, and your phone (for photos if you spot anything). If you can access your water meter, this check gets even easier.

20-minute home checklist

• Under every sink: Wipe shutoff valves and supply lines with a paper towel; any moisture means a leak or a fitting that’s starting to fail.
• Toilets: Remove the tank lid and listen for a refill sound when nobody flushed; for a quick dye test, add food coloring to the tank and wait about 25 minutes—if color shows in the bowl without flushing, water is leaking.
• Shower/tub: Check the tub spout and showerhead for steady drips; look at the caulk line for dark staining or soft drywall nearby.
• Water heater area: Look for dampness at the base, corrosion on fittings, or a wet pan; snap a photo of the temperature setting so you notice accidental changes later.
• Laundry hookups: Feel around the washer valves and the hose connections; a slow seep can run down the wall and stay hidden.
• Outdoor hose bibs: Turn them on and off once; check for dripping at the handle stem and where the pipe enters the wall.

Simple fixes that help

If you find a loose connection, a small snug (not over-tight) can stop a drip, but stop if the fitting spins freely or the pipe moves. Swap worn toilet flappers and fill-valve seals when the dye test fails—those parts are cheap, and the change is immediate.

When to call a plumber

Call for help if you see staining in ceilings/walls, the meter shows flow with every faucet off, or you find moisture that keeps coming back after drying. If a shutoff valve won’t turn, don’t force it—getting it replaced before an emergency is money well spent.

Residential image

Homeowner kneeling under a bathroom sink with a flashlight and a paper towel, checking a shutoff valve for moisture; normal home bathroom, warm lighting, no uniforms, no logos, no “staged” tool layout.

Running Toilet? A Homeowner’s Guide to Stop the Noise and Save Water

A toilet that keeps running is more than an annoying sound in the background. The U.S. EPA notes that common household leaks can waste 90 gallons or more per day, and worn toilet flappers are one of the common leak sources.

Quick signs you have a running-toilet leak

• You hear the tank refill when no one has flushed.
• The bowl water ripples now and then.
• Your water bill jumps with no change in habits.

Two fast tests (no tools)

The food-coloring test: Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank, wait about 25 minutes, and don’t flush; if color shows up in the bowl, water is leaking from the tank into the bowl.

The “listen and look” test: Take the tank lid off and watch what happens after a flush; if water keeps trickling into the overflow tube, the fill valve is the likely issue.

Fix the most common cause: the flapper

A flapper is the rubber (or silicone) part that seals the flush valve opening at the bottom of the tank.

Try this first:

• Turn off the toilet’s shutoff valve (behind the toilet).
• Flush once to lower the tank water.
• Wipe the flapper and the rim it seals against (grit on the rim can break the seal).
• Check the chain length; if it’s too tight, the flapper may not sit flat.

If the flapper is stiff, warped, or slimy and won’t clean up well, replacement is usually the cleanest fix.

If water keeps flowing into the overflow tube

This points to the fill valve or float setting.

Common homeowner fixes:

• Adjust the float so the water level stops about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
• If the valve won’t shut off (or it’s old and noisy), replace the fill valve.

When to call a plumber

Call for help if:

• The shutoff valve won’t turn, leaks, or looks corroded.
• You see water around the toilet base.
• The toilet still runs after a new flapper and basic fill-valve adjustment.
• You have two or more toilets acting up (could be a pressure or supply issue).

Keep your Bay Area home running smoothly

A running toilet may seem like a small problem, but it can waste thousands of gallons over time and drive up your utility bills. Most homeowners can handle flapper replacement and float adjustments with basic tools and a little patience.

If you’ve tried the fixes above and your toilet still won’t stop running, or if you’re dealing with multiple plumbing issues around your home, Express Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced team serves the Bay Area with fast, reliable service for all your residential plumbing needs.

Don’t let a running toilet drain your wallet. Contact Express Plumbing today for expert diagnosis and repair.

Why Your Kitchen Sink Smells (and How to Fix It Without Making the Problem Worse)

A bad smell coming from the kitchen sink is one of those problems that can make the whole house feel “off.” The good news: most odors come from a few predictable sources, and many can be handled with simple, safe steps before a plumber is needed.​

Where the smell comes from

Most sink odors start when food residue, grease, and soap film collect in places that stay damp—giving bacteria time to grow.​

The usual culprits are:

• The drain trap (P-trap) holding dirty water and buildup.

• The garbage disposal (especially the rubber splash guard).

• The dishwasher drain line (when dirty water can flow back or sits in the hose).

• A dry or poorly vented drain that lets sewer gas move upward.​

Fix #1: Clean the disposal the way homeowners skip

If you have a disposal, the smell often comes from the underside of the rubber splash guard and the top “throat” of the unit where grime sticks.​

• Turn off the disposal at the switch (and don’t put a hand inside).

• Lift the rubber splash guard and scrub underneath with dish soap and a brush.

• Run cold water and grind a handful of ice cubes to knock residue loose.

• Follow with a few thin lemon peels (optional) for a clean scent.

If the odor improves for a day and comes back quickly, buildup deeper in the drain line is likely.​

Fix #2: Flush grease film out of the drain (without damage)

Grease doesn’t always clog a pipe immediately—it often coats the inside of the line and traps food particles, which causes a sour smell over time.​

• Run hot tap water for a minute.

• Add a small squirt of dish soap into the drain.

• Keep hot water running another 1–2 minutes to help carry away the greasy film.

Avoid dumping cooking oil into the sink; it cools, sticks, and keeps collecting more gunk.​

Fix #3: Check the P-trap when the smell won’t quit

If the sink smells worse after not being used overnight, the P-trap may be holding foul water and debris (or it may be siphoning dry).​

• Run water for 30 seconds and see if the smell fades.

• Look under the sink for slow leaks, stains, or corrosion around the trap fittings.

• If you’re comfortable, place a bucket under the trap and remove it to clean out sludge (then reinstall carefully to avoid leaks).

If there’s no water in the trap (dry trap), sewer gas can enter the home and it’s time to get a plumber involved.​

Fix #4: Dishwasher backups that make the sink stink

A sink can smell “sewer-ish” when dishwasher discharge water doesn’t drain properly and sits in the hose or flows back toward the sink.​

If your setup includes an air gap, pop the cap and check for sludge buildup; it can overflow or smell when clogged.​

If you don’t have an air gap, a plumber can confirm whether your plumbing configuration prevents backflow and meets local code requirements.​

When to call a plumber

Get professional help if you notice:

• Odor plus gurgling sounds, slow drains, or water backing up.

• Smell returning within 24–48 hours after cleaning.

• Any sign of sewage (not just “stale food”) smell.

• Leaks under the sink or repeated clogs.​

Express Plumbing’s own emergency guidance highlights the value of shutting off water when needed and contacting a plumber quickly to limit damage—especially when the source isn’t obvious.​

Why Is Your Hot Water Not Hot Enough? Common Water Heater Problems and Fixes

There’s nothing worse than stepping into the shower expecting hot water and getting lukewarm spray instead. When your water heater stops performing properly, it affects your whole household. The good news is that many hot water issues have straightforward causes you can often fix yourself.

Homeowner inspecting water heater for temperature issues

The Thermostat Setting Is Too Low

The simplest reason your water heater isn’t delivering hot water is an incorrectly set thermostat. Most water heaters have an adjustable temperature dial, and sometimes these settings get accidentally lowered or were never properly adjusted in the first place.

Check your water heater’s thermostat and look for the temperature setting. The ideal temperature is around 120°F, which provides comfortable hot water while preventing scalding and keeping energy costs down. If it’s set lower than this, gradually increase it to your desired temperature and wait a few hours to see if you get hotter water. Never exceed 140°F, as this creates a scalding risk.

Sediment Buildup Inside the Tank

Over time, minerals and sediment accumulate at the bottom of your water heater tank. This buildup acts like an insulator between the heating element and the water, forcing your heater to work harder and reducing its ability to heat effectively. Hard water areas are particularly prone to this issue.

You may notice warning signs like banging or knocking sounds coming from the tank, rust-colored or cloudy water, or water taking much longer to heat. Flushing your tank annually can solve this problem. Turn off the water supply, attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, and let the water flow until it runs clear. This removes the sediment and restores heating efficiency.

Heating Element or Gas Burner Problems

If the thermostat setting is fine and you’ve flushed the tank, the issue may be with the heating element itself. In electric water heaters, the heating element can wear out over time and stop functioning. In gas water heaters, the burner may not be igniting properly or could have a blockage.

For electric heaters, you might notice the water gradually gets colder or only reaches lukewarm temperatures. This typically means the heating element needs replacement. For gas heaters, listen for the burner igniting when hot water is demanded. If you don’t hear it click or ignite, the burner may need professional attention.

The Pilot Light Has Gone Out

In gas water heaters, the pilot light is a small flame that ignites the main burner. If it goes out, your heater won’t produce hot water at all. You may see no flame through the viewing window at the bottom of the tank, or the burner won’t ignite when you try to relight it.

Relighting the pilot is usually a simple DIY task. Most units have instructions printed on a label attached to the tank. Generally, you’ll turn the gas valve to the pilot setting, hold down the pilot button, use a lighter to ignite the flame, and hold it for about 30 seconds. If the pilot light won’t stay lit after several attempts, you likely have a faulty thermocouple that needs professional replacement.

Low Water Pressure at the Heater

Sometimes the problem isn’t temperature but pressure. If your hot water comes out as just a trickle, sediment or mineral deposits may have clogged the pipes leading from your heater. This is especially common in areas with hard water.

Clean your showerhead and faucet aerators by unscrewing them and rinsing under running water. Soak them in vinegar overnight if mineral buildup is heavy. If hot water pressure is low throughout your home, you may need to have your water lines professionally flushed.

The Thermocouple Is Faulty

The thermocouple is a safety device in gas water heaters that detects whether the pilot light is burning. If it’s malfunctioning, it will shut off the gas supply even when the pilot is lit, preventing your heater from working. Signs include a pilot light that goes out frequently or won’t stay lit after you release the pilot button.

Thermocouples are inexpensive parts, but they require some technical knowledge to replace. This is one of the best cases to call a professional plumber rather than attempting it yourself.

When to Call for Professional Help

Some water heater issues are worth handling yourself, but others require expert attention. Call a professional if you notice:

• Water pooling around the base of the tank
• Rust or corrosion on the tank or pipes
• The heater is more than 10 years old and not performing well
• Any gas smell near the heater
• The heating element repeatedly fails
• You’re uncomfortable performing maintenance tasks

Regular Maintenance Prevents Problems

The best approach to hot water issues is prevention. Annually inspect your water heater for leaks and rust. Test the pressure relief valve by lifting its lever—water should flow out freely. If it doesn’t, the valve may need replacement. Keep the area around your heater clear of clutter and ensure it has proper ventilation.

A small amount of regular maintenance now saves you from much larger headaches and expenses down the road. When you do have issues, addressing them quickly prevents further damage and gets your household back to comfortable hot showers.

Simple Steps to Protect Your Home from Costly Pipe Damage

As temperatures drop across the Bay Area, your home’s plumbing system faces its biggest annual challenge. A single frozen pipe can burst and cause thousands of dollars in water damage, making winter preparation one of the smartest investments you can make as a homeowner.

Professional pipe insulation for winter protection

Why Winter Threatens Your Plumbing System

Water expands by roughly 9% when it freezes, creating tremendous pressure inside your pipes. This expansion can crack even the strongest copper or PVC pipes, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages. The most vulnerable spots are typically outdoor faucets, pipes along exterior walls, and any plumbing in uninsulated areas of your home.​

Protect Your Outdoor Plumbing

Your outdoor plumbing takes the biggest hit during winter months. Start by disconnecting all garden hoses and draining them completely before storing them indoors. Water trapped in connected hoses can freeze and expand back into your home’s pipes, causing interior damage.​

Next, shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots using the indoor shutoff valve, then open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water. If you don’t have frost-proof outdoor faucets, install insulated covers over each spigot for added protection.​

For homes with underground sprinkler systems, drain all water from the lines and backflow prevention assembly, then wrap the assembly with foam insulation.​

Insulate Vulnerable Indoor Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas need protection before the first freeze. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves to wrap exposed pipes in basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. This inexpensive material is available at most hardware stores and can be installed without professional help.​

Pay special attention to pipes near exterior walls, where cold air penetration is most likely. For extremely vulnerable areas, consider using heat tape or pipe warmers that automatically activate when temperatures approach freezing.​

Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures

Keep your home’s thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away for extended periods. This minimum temperature helps prevent pipes from freezing while balancing energy costs. During severe cold snaps, consider raising the temperature a few degrees higher.​

Open cabinet doors under sinks, especially those located against exterior walls. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around the pipes and prevents cold pockets from forming.​

Prepare Your Water Heater for Extra Demand

Cold weather puts additional strain on your water heater as it works harder to maintain hot water temperatures. Schedule a professional inspection to check for leaks, unusual noises, or signs of wear. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and lead to overheating.​

Consider wrapping older water heaters with an insulating blanket and insulating the first few feet of hot water pipes leaving the tank. Set your thermostat to 120°F to balance comfort with energy efficiency.​

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can create ice dams that back water into your home and affect your plumbing system. Remove all debris from gutters and downspouts before winter arrives, ensuring proper drainage away from your foundation.​

Know Your Emergency Procedures

Locate your main water shutoff valve and ensure it operates smoothly. Most are located near the water meter, in the basement, or in a utility area. Test the valve by turning it gently in both directions, and apply penetrating oil if it’s stiff.​

During extreme cold periods, let faucets drip slightly, especially those farthest from where water enters your home. Moving water is much less likely to freeze than standing water.​

When Cold Weather Strikes

If temperatures drop to 20°F or below, take extra precautions by covering crawl space vents temporarily and opening cabinet doors under sinks. Remember to uncover vents once temperatures rise.​

Should you discover frozen pipes, never use open flames or electrical appliances like hair dryers to thaw them. Instead, warm towels or blankets in the dryer and wrap them around the frozen section, repeating until water flows.​

Professional Help Makes the Difference

While many winter preparations can be handled by homeowners, some situations require professional expertise. Call Express Plumbing if you notice low water pressure, water heater problems, persistent leaks, or if you’re unsure about any aspect of winterizing your plumbing system.​

Our experienced Bay Area plumbers have been helping homeowners prepare for winter since 1989. We understand the unique challenges of local weather patterns and can provide customized solutions for your home’s specific needs. Don’t wait until the first freeze to discover vulnerable areas in your plumbing system.

A small investment in winter preparation now can save you from thousands of dollars in emergency repairs and water damage cleanup later. Take action today to protect your home and enjoy peace of mind throughout the winter months.