5 Common Plumbing Problems Homeowners Face in Cambridge—and How to Solve Them
Real Plumbing Problems We See Every Week in Cambridge Homes (and How to Handle Them)
If you’re a homeowner in Cambridge, Ontario, you know that maintaining a home comes with its share of challenges. One of the most frustrating issues? Plumbing problems. From backed-up drains to burst pipes, these problems can pop up unexpectedly and wreak havoc on your day. The good news is that with the right knowledge—and a trusted Cambridge plumber—you can handle most plumbing issues quickly and effectively.
In this blog post, we'll cover the five most common plumbing problems local homeowners face, why they happen, and how to deal with them. Whether you’re searching for a “plumber near me” or just looking to stay ahead of issues, this guide is for you.
1. Clogged Drains
The Problem:
Clogged drains are a daily nuisance in many Cambridge households. Whether it’s your kitchen sink draining slowly or a completely blocked bathroom sink, these issues usually stem from grease, soap scum, hair, or even food particles accumulating in your pipes.
Why It’s Common in Cambridge:
Older homes in Cambridge often come with original plumbing that hasn’t been updated in decades. This can lead to narrow or corroded pipes, which are more susceptible to clogs. In newer neighbourhoods, people sometimes install garbage disposals without proper water flow setups, leading to backups.
The Fix:
Start with a plunger or a safe, enzyme-based drain cleaner. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners—they may damage your pipes. If the clog is persistent, call a Cambridge plumber like Reliant Plumbing to use professional tools such as hydro-jetting or a plumber’s snake.
2. Leaky Faucets
The Problem:
A leaky faucet may not seem urgent, but it can waste hundreds of litres of water and inflate your water bill if ignored. That slow, steady drip is also a sign that something’s going wrong inside your plumbing.
Why It’s Common in Cambridge:
Our hard water in Cambridge leads to mineral buildup that can wear down washers and O-rings in your taps. Add in temperature fluctuations during our harsh winters and humid summers, and it's easy to see why leaks happen.
The Fix:
If you’re handy, you can turn off the water supply, take apart the faucet, and replace the worn-out parts. But if you're unsure—or if the problem recurs—it’s best to call a plumber near me to inspect and fix it properly.
3. Running Toilets
The Problem:
You flush the toilet, but the tank keeps filling—or worse, never stops. A running toilet can waste up to 200 litres of water a day, increasing your utility costs and reducing the efficiency of your plumbing system.
Why It’s Common in Cambridge:
Toilets in older Cambridge homes may have outdated mechanisms. Flapper valves, fill valves, and overflow tubes wear out over time, especially when exposed to the high mineral content in our local water supply.
The Fix:
Most hardware stores carry DIY toilet repair kits. Still, many homeowners prefer to contact a Cambridge plumber to get it done right the first time. The cost of a quick repair often offsets the money lost from water waste.
4. Low Water Pressure
The Problem:
Low water pressure makes it hard to shower, wash dishes, or even do laundry. It can stem from buildup in your pipes or a more serious issue like a hidden leak.
Why It’s Common in Cambridge:
In neighbourhoods with older water mains or where construction has disturbed the lines, you may notice lower pressure. Hard water minerals can also clog fixtures and reduce flow over time.
The Fix:
Check your faucet aerators and showerheads for mineral buildup and clean or replace them as needed. If that doesn’t solve the issue, contact a plumber near me to inspect for leaks, pressure regulator problems, or pipe corrosion.
5. Burst or Frozen Pipes
The Problem:
Nothing causes panic like a burst pipe. In winter, freezing temperatures can cause the water inside your pipes to expand and burst, leading to flooding and extensive damage.
Why It’s Common in Cambridge:
Cambridge winters are no joke. If pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, or basements aren’t properly insulated, they’re at high risk for freezing and bursting.
The Fix:
Prevention is key—insulate vulnerable pipes and keep your home heated to a consistent temperature, even when you’re away. If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn off your main water supply and call a Cambridge plumber right away. A professional like Reliant Plumbing can safely thaw the pipe and inspect for damage.
When to Call a Local Pro
You might be tempted to take on plumbing repairs yourself—and sometimes that’s fine. But when issues become frequent, severe, or start affecting multiple fixtures, it’s time to call a trusted Cambridge plumber.
At Reliant Plumbing, we understand the specific challenges Cambridge homeowners face. Whether you’re in Hespeler, Preston, Galt, or one of the surrounding areas, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help.
We offer fast, reliable service from licensed professionals who live and work right here in your community. Searching for a “plumber near me”? You’ve found one. With 20+ years of combined experience, top-rated customer service, and transparent pricing, we’ve earned the trust of homeowners throughout the Tri-Cities.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing problems are a fact of life—but they don’t have to be a nightmare. By understanding the most common issues in Cambridge homes and knowing when to call a professional, you can protect your home, save money, and gain peace of mind.
If you're facing any of these common plumbing problems or just need expert advice, Reliant Plumbing is here to help. Contact us today and find out why we’re the Cambridge plumber your neighbours trust.