27July 2025
Some plumbing problems start smallโbut can turn into major repairs if ignored. At Southside Plumbing, weโve helped hundreds of homeowners across Omaha and Council Bluffs fix issues early and avoid costly damage.
Whether youโre in a 100-year-old Dundee bungalow or a new build in La Vista, these are the top five plumbing problems we see again and againโand what you can do about them.
๐ฟ 1. Dripping Faucets That Never Stop
That steady dripโฆ dripโฆ drip might seem harmless, but even a slow leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year. It also raises your utility bill and wears down plumbing fixtures.
Common causes:
- Worn-out washers or O-rings
- Loose valve seats
- High water pressure
- Corrosion
In many cases, a quick fix can solve it. But if it keeps returning, it may point to deeper plumbing system wearโespecially in older Omaha homes.
๐ Explore our general plumbing repair services
๐ฝ 2. Running Toilets That Waste Water
A toilet that runs constantlyโor intermittently refillsโcan waste up to 200 gallons of water a day. Thatโs money literally going down the drain.
Most common issues:
- Faulty flapper valves
- Loose or tangled chains
- Worn-out flush handles
- Improper water level in the tank
These are usually quick, affordable repairs, but left unchecked, theyโll drive up your water bill and wear out the system.
๐ Need help with bathroom plumbing? Weโve got you covered
๐ 3. Slow or Clogged Drains
Kitchen sinks, showers, tubsโitโs no surprise that clogged drains make the top 5. Between hair, soap scum, grease, and foreign debris, your pipes are constantly under attack.
Signs of a deeper issue:
- Recurring clogs in the same location
- Water backing up from multiple drains
- Gurgling sounds or bad odors
If store-bought drain cleaners arenโt workingโor youโre using them oftenโitโs time for a professional cleaning or sewer inspection.
๐ Learn more about our professional drain cleaning services
๐ฆ 4. Leaky Pipes Behind Walls or Floors
Pipe leaks often go unnoticed until itโs too late. You might spot a water stain, feel a soft floorboard, or see your water bill spike unexpectedly.
Watch for:
- Water spots on ceilings or drywall
- Low water pressure
- Moldy smells
- Damp cabinets or puddles under sinks
Unresolved leaks can lead to mold growth, foundation damage, or structural rot. If you suspect a hidden leak, we use advanced tools to find and fix itโfast.
๐ฅ 5. Hot Water Issues (Or No Hot Water at All)
A cold shower on a winter morning is no fun. If youโre not getting enough hot waterโor none at allโit usually points to a water heater problem.
Common issues:
- Faulty heating elements
- Sediment buildup
- Thermostat failure
- A tank thatโs simply too small for your household
Whether your unit needs a flush, a part replaced, or a full upgrade, weโll walk you through it.
๐งฐ Bonus Tip: Regular Maintenance Prevents Big Problems
The best way to avoid these common issues? Routine maintenance.
Just like your car needs oil changes, your plumbing system needs checkups. Southside Plumbing offers inspections, drain cleanings, and water heater flushes to keep everything running smoothly.
Preventative service can save you hundredsโif not thousandsโof dollars over time.
๐ ๏ธ Serving the Omaha and Council Bluffs Metro
Weโre proud to serve homeowners across the Omaha metro, including Ralston, Papillion, Bennington, Council Bluffs, and beyond. Whether itโs a simple fix or a full-system replacement, you can trust Southside Plumbing for expert service and honest answers.
Dealing with one of these common plumbing issues? Don’t wait for it to get worse. Call Southside Plumbing today for professional help, fair pricing, and lasting results.