Plumbing Repairs: How To Prevent Them & When They’re Necessary

Let’s face it: plumbing problems are never fun. From leaking taps to full-blown emergencies, plumbing issues have a sneaky habit of showing up at the worst possible time. But the good news? Many of these problems can be prevented with a bit of know-how and regular maintenance.

At Etta Plumbing, we’ve been helping households and businesses across Derby keep things flowing smoothly. In this post, we’ll walk you through the most common plumbing issues, how to stop them in their tracks and when it’s time to pick up the phone and call a trusted plumbing and heating company like us.

Common Plumbing Problems You’ll Want to Avoid

It’s easy to ignore a slow-draining sink or a dripping tap, but even small issues can quickly become major headaches. Here are a few of the most common plumbing repairs we get called out to and how they start.

Leaky Taps and Toilets

Drip... drip... drip... Not only is it annoying, but it’s also wasting water (and your money). Over time, worn-out washers, corroded valve seats or damaged seals can cause persistent leaks. And what starts as a trickle can turn into a stream before you know it.

Blocked Drains

Kitchen sinks, bathroom basins, and showers often suffer from build-ups of grease, soap, hair or food waste. Blockages can lead to foul smells, slow drainage and eventually, backed-up water and pipe damage.

Low Water Pressure

If your morning shower has turned into a disappointing drizzle, there could be a build-up of sediment in the pipes, a hidden leak or an issue with your water supply. It’s not just inconvenient, it can signal more serious plumbing problems under the surface.

Burst Pipes

Usually a winter classic, frozen pipes can crack or burst as the water inside expands. But wear and tear or corrosion can also cause pipes to fail, resulting in water damage and expensive repairs.

Boiler Issues

A key part of your plumbing and heating setup, your boiler needs regular TLC. Strange noises, lack of hot water or low pressure could be signs that something’s up.

Preventing Plumbing Repairs: Day-to-Day Tips

Want to avoid emergency call-outs and keep your plumbing running smoothly? Here are some simple things you can do to protect your system:

1. Don’t Ignore the Drips

A leaking tap might not seem like a big deal, but over time it can waste hundreds of litres of water. If you spot a leak, get it sorted quickly as this can often be a small fix before it turns into something more costly.

2. Be Drain Smart

Avoid pouring fats, oils or coffee grounds down the sink. Use plughole strainers to catch hair in the bathroom. And give your drains a rinse with boiling water once a week to break up build-up.

3. Insulate Your Pipes

In colder months, pipe insulation is essential to prevent freezing and bursts. It’s especially important for pipes in lofts, garages or external walls.

4. Watch Your Water Pressure

If your water pressure suddenly drops, check other taps to see if it’s localised or across the whole house. If it persists, you could have a leak or blockage and should call in a professional.

5. Get Your Boiler Serviced

Your boiler should be serviced annually by a qualified engineer. This keeps it running efficiently, extends its lifespan and can catch any problems before they get worse.

When Plumbing Repairs Are Necessary

Even with the best preventative care, sometimes things just go wrong. So how do you know when it’s time to bring in the professionals?

1. Persistent Leaks

If you've tried tightening or replacing parts and the leak still won’t stop, it’s best to call in a plumbing and heating company. Leaks can be symptoms of deeper issues, like corroded pipes or failing joints.

2. Water Damage

Stains on ceilings, damp patches on walls, or mould growth are signs of hidden plumbing leaks. These aren’t just DIY jobs; ignoring them can lead to serious structural damage.

3. Gurgling Drains or Toilets

Strange noises from your drains or toilet can indicate a blockage or poor venting. Don’t wait for an overflow: this is a job for the pros.

4. No Hot Water

No one wants a cold shower, especially in the middle of winter. If your boiler’s gone silent or your hot water has disappeared, it could be a pressure issue, a faulty valve, or something more serious.

5. Emergencies

From burst pipes to overflowing toilets, some issues can’t wait. Our emergency plumbing services are available to help you deal with urgent problems quickly and safely. We’ll get everything under control and advise on next steps to fix the issue properly.

Why It Pays to Act Fast

Delaying plumbing repairs can lead to much bigger bills down the line. A small leak can cause water damage to flooring, walls, and furniture. A blocked pipe can rupture or lead to backflow. Boiler issues can result in a total breakdown if left unchecked.

On top of the cost, plumbing problems can be seriously disruptive. Taking fast action keeps your home safe, comfortable, and functioning smoothly.

Choose the Right Plumbing Company in Derby

If you’re looking for reliable plumbing in Derby, Etta Plumbing is here to help. We’re a local, family-run business with years of experience offering:

●      General plumbing repairs

●      Emergency plumbing services

●      Boiler servicing and heating system repairs

●      Bathroom installations

●      Leak detection and pipework

We’re proud of our reputation for honest pricing, fast response times and friendly, professional service. Whether it’s a small repair or a full heating system upgrade, we’re your go-to plumbing and heating company in Derby.

We know that plumbing problems can be stressful. That’s why we take the time to explain the issue, walk you through the options and find a solution that fits your home and budget.

Get in Touch Today

Whether you’ve got a minor issue or a plumbing emergency, don’t wait for it to get worse. Get in touch with Etta Plumbing today for expert help with plumbing repairs in Derby.