When it comes to plumbing in Manassas, homeowners and business owners alike face many of the same challenges. Pipes wear out, drains clog, water heaters fail, and sometimes things break at the worst possible moment. You don’t need to be a professional plumber to recognize the warning signs or try a few simple fixes before calling in the experts.

Dripping Faucets: The Annoying Money-Waster

That little drip, drip, drip might seem harmless, but it’s one of the most common plumbing issues in Manassas homes. A faucet that drips once every second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. That’s enough to fill a swimming pool and drive up your water bill.

Why it Happens

Most dripping faucets are caused by worn-out washers or O-rings. Over time, the constant friction of turning the faucet on and off wears down these small parts. Sometimes mineral buildup from hard water also prevents the faucet from sealing completely.

How to Fix It

Turn off the water supply under the sink, remove the faucet handle, and replace the washer or O-ring. You’ll need a wrench, a screwdriver, and a replacement part (usually a few dollars at the hardware store). If the faucet is older, corrosion may mean it’s better to replace the whole fixture.

Clogged Drains: Kitchen and Bathroom Nightmares

Few things cause more frustration than a clogged sink or shower drain. Whether it’s food scraps in the kitchen or hair and soap scum in the bathroom, slow drains are a universal problem.

Why it Happens

Kitchen drains clog from grease, oil, and food particles. Even if you use a garbage disposal, things like rice, pasta, and coffee grounds expand and cause blockages. In bathrooms, hair mixed with soap scum creates a sticky mess that clings to the inside of pipes.

How to Fix It

Start with a plunger or a drain snake (sometimes called an auger). Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can damage pipes and create toxic fumes. Instead, pour a mixture of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar down the drain to help break down buildup. For stubborn clogs, it’s best to call a plumber who can use professional equipment to clear the line without damaging it.

Running Toilets: Silent Water Wasters

A toilet that keeps running after you flush is not just irritating; it can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day.

Why it Happens

Most running toilets are caused by a faulty flapper valve that doesn’t seal properly. Sometimes the float is set too high, allowing too much water to enter the tank, or the fill tube is loose.

How to Fix It

Take the lid off the tank and watch how the parts move when you flush. If the flapper is worn out, replace it (another inexpensive part). Adjusting the float or reconnecting the fill tube often solves the problem. If none of these fixes work, a plumber may need to replace the entire flush mechanism.

Low Water Pressure: A Frustrating Shower Experience

Nobody enjoys stepping into a shower only to be met with a weak trickle of water. Low water pressure is another common plumbing complaint in Manassas homes.

Why it Happens

It can be caused by mineral buildup in your faucet aerators or showerheads, leaks in your pipes, or issues with the municipal water supply. Sometimes it’s a sign of a more serious problem, like corroded pipes or a hidden leak inside your walls.

How to Fix It

First, unscrew the faucet aerator or showerhead and soak it in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits. If that doesn’t help, check your home for leaks (look for damp spots on walls, ceilings, or flooring). If pressure is low throughout the house, contact your water provider to rule out city supply issues. Otherwise, call a plumber to inspect your system for hidden problems.

Leaky Pipes: Small Drips, Big Damage

A leaky pipe under your sink or inside your basement might not seem urgent, but even small leaks can cause major water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs if ignored.

Why it Happens

Pipes can leak due to corrosion, loose joints, high water pressure, or cracks caused by freezing and thawing cycles.

How to Fix It

For a temporary fix, you can wrap the leaky area with plumber’s tape or use epoxy putty designed for pipe repairs. However, this is just a short-term solution. The best option is to have a plumber replace the damaged section of pipe to prevent future issues.

Water Heater Trouble: No Hot Water When You Need It

Few things are more frustrating than running out of hot water in the middle of a shower. Water heater issues are especially common in older homes around Manassas.

Why it Happens

Sediment buildup inside the tank reduces efficiency. Heating elements or thermostats can fail, and older water heaters eventually corrode and leak.

How to Fix It

If you’re comfortable with DIY work, you can drain the tank to flush out sediment. Replacing heating elements may also solve the problem. But if your water heater is over 10 years old or leaking, it’s usually time for a replacement. A professional plumber can recommend the right size and type of unit for your home.

Sewer Line Backups: A Mess You Don’t Want to Face

When sewage starts backing up into your sinks, tubs, or toilets, it’s more than just gross. It’s a serious health hazard.

Why it Happens

Tree roots, collapsed pipes, or blockages in the main sewer line can cause sewage to back up into your home.

How to Fix It

Unfortunately, this is not a DIY project. If you suspect a sewer line issue, call a professional plumber right away. They will use a camera inspection to find the problem and clear the line safely.

Burst Pipes: A True Plumbing Emergency

A burst pipe can flood your home within minutes, causing thousands of dollars in damage. This is one of the most urgent plumbing emergencies in Manassas.

Why it Happens

Pipes often burst in winter when water inside them freezes and expands. Old or corroded pipes are also more likely to fail.

How to Fix It

First, shut off the main water supply immediately. Open faucets to relieve pressure and call a plumber right away. Never try to patch a burst pipe yourself while water is still in the system.

Garbage Disposal Jams: Kitchen Hassles

A jammed garbage disposal makes cooking and cleanup much harder.

Why it Happens

Disposals get jammed when tough items like bones, fruit pits, or fibrous foods (celery, corn husks) get stuck. Grease and oil can also gum up the blades.

How to Fix It

First, turn off the disposal and never put your hand inside. Use the reset button on the bottom or insert an Allen wrench into the hex hole to manually free the blades. To prevent jams, run cold water while using the disposal and avoid putting problem foods inside.

Sump Pump Failure: Risk of Basement Flooding

If your home has a basement, a sump pump is your best defense against flooding. When it fails, you risk serious water damage.

Why it Happens

Power outages, clogged discharge lines, or a pump that’s too small for the job are common causes.

How to Fix It

Test your sump pump regularly by pouring water into the pit to make sure it activates. Keep the discharge line clear of debris. If your pump is more than 7–10 years old, consider replacing it before it fails during a storm.

Preventive Plumbing Tips for Manassas Homeowners

While many plumbing problems are unavoidable, a little maintenance goes a long way. Here are some simple steps to reduce your risk:

• Don’t pour grease down the drain.
• Use drain screens to catch hair and food particles.
• Check pipes regularly for signs of leaks.
• Flush your water heater once a year.
• Insulate pipes in winter to prevent freezing.

When to Call the Pros

Some fixes are simple enough for a handy homeowner, but many plumbing issues require professional expertise. If you’re dealing with major leaks, sewer line problems, or anything involving your water heater, it’s best to call a plumber. Trying to handle it yourself can sometimes make the problem worse.

Call Kinnett Plumbing for Expert Help

Plumbing problems never seem to happen at a convenient time. Whether it’s a dripping faucet or a burst pipe, you need a team you can trust. At Kinnett Plumbing, we provide fast, reliable service for homeowners in Manassas, Woodbridge, and surrounding areas. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to handle emergencies and routine repairs. We arrive with the tools and knowledge to fix your problem right the first time. Don’t let a small issue turn into a big headache. Call us today for honest pricing, expert repairs, and peace of mind.