Plumbing problems can turn into expensive disasters if you don’t stay ahead of them. Leaky pipes, clogged drains, and failing sump pumps are all issues that can be avoided with the right knowledge and a little maintenance.

Common Plumbing Problems and How to Avoid Them

1. Low-Quality Fixtures Cost You More in the Long Run

Cheap toilets and faucets might seem like a good deal, but they often break down faster and require frequent repairs.

✅ Look for trusted brands like American Standard, Moen, and Delta.
 ✅ Avoid online deals or discount store fixtures that don’t have local replacement parts.
 ✅ Spending a little more upfront saves you money on service calls later.

2. Drano is Not Your Friend

Many homeowners use chemical drain cleaners to clear clogs, but these products can corrode cast iron pipes and lead to costly repairs.

Alternative Fix: Pour hot water down the drain once every two weeks to prevent buildup.
  For slow drains: Use a plunger or a plumbing snake (but be cautious—incorrect use can damage pipes).
  If the problem persists, call a professional before it gets worse.

3. Watch Out for Aging Cast Iron Pipes

Many homes built before the 1970s have cast iron drainpipes, which have a 60-80 year lifespan. As they age, they corrode and collapse, causing backups and leaks.

If your home is older, have a plumber inspect your pipes with a camera.
  Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they speed up corrosion.
  Consider replacing aging pipes with PVC before a major failure occurs.

4. The Truth About Backwater Valves

A backwater valve prevents sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rainfall. Some municipalities require them, especially in areas prone to flooding.

✅ In Beaconsfield and Pointe-Claire, homes must have a mainline normally open backwater valve if work is done on the main drain.
 ✅ Fixtures below grade (like a basement bathroom) should have an isolated normally closed backwater valve.
 ✅ If you don’t have one and you’re planning renovations, ask your plumber about installing it.

Drain and Sewer Line Issues: What to Watch For

5. Tree Roots Can Destroy Your Main Sewer Line

Older homes often have clay or asbestos-cement sewer pipes, which are prone to root intrusion. Over time, tree roots crack and clog these pipes, leading to backups.

Before buying an older home, get a camera inspection of the sewer line.
  If you have frequent drain backups, roots may be the culprit.
  Replacing an old sewer line with PVC is a major job but prevents costly repairs later.

6. Sump Pumps: Your First Line of Defense Against Basement Flooding

If your sump pump fails, your basement can flood within hours.

✅ Standard sump pumps last 6-10 years but should be replaced after 8 years to be safe.
 ✅ Test your sump pump every season to make sure it’s working.
 ✅ Keep the pit clean—remove sand, dirt, and debris to prevent clogs.
 ✅ Consider a battery backup system to keep your pump running during power outages.

Simple Ways to Prevent Clogs

Clogs are one of the most common plumbing issues. These habits will help keep your drains clear:

Never flush “flushable” wipes. They don’t break down and cause major blockages.
  Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain. It solidifies and sticks to pipes.
  Use a drain strainer. This prevents hair and food debris from going down your sink and shower drains.
  Run hot water regularly. It helps clear out buildup before it turns into a clog.

Water Lines and Pressure Issues

7. Water Pressure vs. Water Volume: What You Need to Know

Many homeowners confuse water pressure with water volume.

Water pressure (PSI) is determined by the city and remains constant.
  Water volume depends on the size of your pipes. If you have multiple bathrooms, you may need a ¾-inch or 1-inch water line for adequate supply.
  Older homes often have ½-inch water lines, which may not handle modern water demands.

If you’re upgrading your home, ask your plumber whether your water lines need to be replaced.

8. Is Your Home Losing Water Without You Noticing?

A running toilet or slow leak can cost thousands of dollars in extra water bills.

✅ Test your toilet by adding food coloring to the tank—if the water in the bowl changes color, you have a leak.
 ✅ A dripping faucet can waste hundreds of liters per year—fix small leaks before they become costly.
 ✅ In cities that charge for water (like Beaconsfield and Pointe-Claire), fixing leaks can save you big money.

Hot Water Tanks: When to Replace Them

Water heaters last 10 years—after that, many insurance companies won’t cover damage from a failure.
  Check the manufacture date on your tank. If it’s over 10 years old, consider replacing it.
  Install a drip pan under your water heater to catch leaks and prevent damage.

Final Tips for Preventing Plumbing Disasters

✔ Know where your main shut-off valve is. In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can prevent serious damage.
 ✔ Replace outdated shut-off valves. If your valve is old and hard to turn, consider upgrading to a quarter-turn ball valve for easier operation.
 ✔ Winterize your outdoor faucets. Shut off the inside valve and disconnect hoses before freezing weather hits.
 ✔ If you’re unsure, call a professional. Some DIY plumbing fixes can cause more harm than good.