For many homeowners, plumbing problems seem to appear out of nowhere — a slow drain turns into a clog, a dripping faucet becomes a leak, or a hidden pipe finally gives out. The truth is, most plumbing issues give warning signs long before they become emergencies.
At Vanguard Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Oakland and Macomb Counties deal with everything from burst pipes to stubborn blockages. And over the years, we’ve noticed the same problems come up again and again.
The good news? With a little awareness and maintenance, many of these issues can be prevented before they turn into costly repairs.
1. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
A dripping faucet may not seem like a big deal — but it’s one of the most common plumbing problems, and it can quietly waste hundreds of gallons of water a year.
Common causes:
- Worn-out washers or seals
- Corroded valve seats
- Loose parts or mineral buildup
How to prevent it:
- Don’t ignore small drips — they fix themselves.
- Have faucets and valves checked periodically.
- Consider upgrading old fixtures that have worn internal components.
When left untreated, leaks can increase your water bill and cause slow moisture damage around sinks and counters. Vanguard Plumbing technicians fix these quickly during routine service calls.
2. Clogged Drains
Clogged or slow drains are a headache no homeowner enjoys. Whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or basement, a clogged drain can lead to backups,foul odors, and water damage if not handled properly.
Common causes:
- Grease, oil, and food waste in kitchen sinks
- Hair and soap scum in showers and tubs
- Tree roots or buildup in main sewer lines
How to prevent it:
- Avoid pouring grease or coffee grounds down the sink.
- Use hair catchers in showers and tubs.
- Schedule professional drain cleaning or power jetting before buildup becomes a blockage.
While store-bought drain cleaners might seem like a quick fix, they can actually damage pipes over time. Vanguard Plumbing uses advanced tools like hydro jetting to clear clogs completely — without harming your plumbing system.
3. Running Toilets
A toilet that won’t stop running is more than just annoying — it can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day if left unchecked.
Common causes:
- Faulty flapper valves
- Malfunctioning fill valves
- Loose flush handles or chains
How to prevent it:
- Periodically check for running water in the bowl.
- Replace flappers or internal toilet components before they wear out completely.
- Have a plumber inspect the toilet if you notice frequent cycling or phantom flushing.
Running toilets are one of the fastest, easiest problems for a professional to fix — and one of the most cost-effective to address early.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make showers miserable and make it harder to wash dishes or fill the tub. It’s also a sign something may be going on behind the walls.
Common causes:
- Sediment buildup in pipes or fixtures
- Partially closed shutoff valves
- Corrosion in older plumbing
- Leaks in the system
How to prevent it:
- Have older pipes inspected if water pressure is inconsistent.
- Clean aerators on faucets periodically.
- Address any leaks quickly — even small ones can affect pressure.
Vanguard Plumbing often traces pressure problems to a single source, like a partially clogged line or worn valve, and resolves the issue without major disruption.
5. Water Heater Problems
When Michigan winter hits, a reliable water heater isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Unfortunately, water heaters are prone to issues over time, especially without maintenance.
Common causes:
- Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank
- Aging or corroded components
- Faulty thermostat or heating element
- Pressure relief valve problems
How to prevent it:
- Flush your water heater at least once a year to remove sediment.
- Check the temperature setting — 120°F is ideal for most homes.
- Schedule an annual water heater inspection before winter.
Vanguard Plumbing services both tank and tankless units and can help extend their lifespan through routine maintenance.
6. Leaking Pipes
Pipes don’t always burst dramatically. Many start with tiny pinhole leaks that go unnoticed until they cause water stains, warped flooring, or mold growth.
Common causes:
- Corrosion in aging pipes
- Shifting soil or foundation movement
- Excessive water pressure
- Freezing and thawing cycles
How to prevent it:
- Schedule periodic plumbing inspections, especially in older homes.
- Keep indoor temperatures consistent during winter.
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is in case of an emergency.
Vanguard Plumbing frequently repairs or replaces leaking pipes before they turn into full-blown emergencies — saving homeowners time, stress, and thousands in potential damage.
7. Sewer Line Backups
A sewer line backup is every homeowner’s nightmare. Slow drains, foul odors, or gurgling toilets can all signal a problem in the main sewer line.
Common causes:
- Tree root intrusion
- Grease and debris buildup
- Collapsed or aging pipes
- Heavy rainfall overwhelming the system
How to prevent it:
- Avoid flushing wipes or non-flushable materials.
- Schedule camera inspections if you notice recurring drain problems.
- Consider root treatments or trenchless repair if the line is aging.
Vanguard Plumbing uses modern diagnostic tools to locate sewer line problems quickly and recommend long-term solutions — not just temporary fixes.
8. Sump Pump Failures
For homeowners with basements, a sump pump is the first line of defense against flooding. But if it fails during a storm or freeze, the damage can be significant.
Common causes:
- Lack of maintenance or testing
- Power outages or mechanical failure
- Frozen discharge lines
- A pump that’s too small for the home
How to prevent it:
- Test your sump pump regularly — especially before heavy rain or winter freezes.
- Keep the discharge line clear and insulated.
- Replace aging pumps proactively before failure occurs.
- Install a emergency back up sump pump.
Vanguard Plumbing can inspect, maintain, or replace sump pumps to ensure they’re ready when needed most.
9. Frozen Pipes
In Michigan’s cold winters, frozen pipes are one of the most serious plumbing threats. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands, often causing it to burst.
Common causes:
- Exposed pipes in unheated areas
- Poor insulation
- Thermostats set too low in winter
- Sudden cold snaps
How to prevent it:
- Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
- Keep heat at a minimum of 55°F, even when away.
- Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around pipes.
- Let faucets drip during extreme cold to keep water moving.
Vanguard Plumbing responds to many frozen pipe emergencies each winter — but most could be avoided with proper preparation.
10. Aging Plumbing Systems
Even well-maintained plumbing doesn’t last forever. Older homes in Oakland and Macomb Counties often have galvanized or copper pipes that have reached the end of their lifespan. These aging systems are more prone to leaks, clogs, pressure problems, and water quality issues.
How to prevent it:
- Schedule a plumbing inspection if your home is 30+ years old.
- Plan ahead for pipe replacement or upgrades.
- Replace fixtures and valves as needed to keep the system healthy.
Upgrading your plumbing system before it fails completely can prevent costly emergency repairs and protect your home’s value.
When to Call Vanguard Plumbing
Some plumbing problems are manageable with simple maintenance, but many require professional tools and expertise to fix properly.
That’s where Vanguard Plumbing comes in. As a trusted local company serving Oakland and Macomb Counties, the team handles:
- Leak detection and repair
- Drain and sewer line service
- Power jetting
- Water heater installation and maintenance
- Emergency plumbing 24/7
📞 Phone: 248-797-6955
📧 Email: vanguardjetting@gmail.com
📍 Address: 32655 Industrial Drive, Madison Heights, MI 48071
Plumbing issues are a part of homeownership — but most don’t have to turn into disasters. By understanding the most common problems and taking simple preventive steps, homeowners can protect their property, save money, and avoid unnecessary stress.
Whether it’s a small leak, a stubborn drain, or a full plumbing emergency, Vanguard Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced, licensed team is committed to providing fast, reliable service to keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly all year long.
👉 Call 248-797-6955 today to schedule service or an inspection with Vanguard Plumbing.
