A malfunctioning bathroom can disrupt your daily routine—but before you call a plumber, many issues have simple DIY fixes. From leaky faucets to clogged drains, here’s how to diagnose and repair the 10 most common bathroom plumbing problems yourself.
🚿 1. Leaky Faucet
Symptoms: Dripping sound, water pooling around handles.
Common Causes: Worn-out washer, O-ring, or cartridge.
How to Fix:
Turn off water supply under the sink.
Disassemble the faucet (check manufacturer’s guide).
Replace the faulty part (washer, O-ring, or cartridge).
Reassemble and test.
✅ Cost: $5-$20 for parts.
🚽 2. Running Toilet
Symptoms: Constant water flow, hissing sound.
Common Causes: Faulty flapper, fill valve, or float.
How to Fix:
Remove the tank lid and inspect.
Adjust the float if water is overflowing.
Replace the flapper if it’s not sealing.
Check the fill valve for leaks.
✅ Cost: $10-$30 for a repair kit.
🛁 3. Slow or Clogged Drain
Symptoms: Water drains slowly or backs up.
Common Causes: Hair, soap scum, or debris buildup.
How to Fix:
Use a plunger (cover overflow drain first).
Try a drain snake or wire hanger to remove hair.
Pour boiling water + baking soda/vinegar for mild clogs.
🚫 Avoid chemical drain cleaners (they damage pipes).
✅ Cost: $0-$20 for tools.
💧 4. Low Water Pressure in Shower
Symptoms: Weak spray, inconsistent flow.
Common Causes: Mineral buildup, faulty showerhead, or valve issue.
How to Fix:
Soak showerhead in vinegar (remove and descale).
Check for a flow restrictor (remove if needed).
Inspect pipes for leaks if problem persists.
✅ Cost: $0-$10 for vinegar or new showerhead.
🚪 5. Loose or Leaky Toilet Base
Symptoms: Wobbling toilet, water on floor.
Common Causes: Broken wax ring or loose bolts.
How to Fix:
Tighten closet bolts (don’t overtighten!).
Replace wax ring if leaking persists (requires toilet removal).
✅ Cost: $10-$30 for a new wax ring.
🚰 6. Sink P-Trap Leak
Symptoms: Water under the sink, musty smell.
Common Causes: Loose connections or cracked pipe.
How to Fix:
Tighten slip nuts with pliers.
Replace P-trap if cracked ($10 part).
Use plumber’s tape on threaded joints.
✅ Cost: $5-$20.
🌊 7. Overflowing Toilet
Symptoms: Water rising to the rim.
Common Causes: Severe clog or blocked vent pipe.
How to Fix:
Stop flushing! Turn off water supply valve.
Plunge vigorously (use a flange plunger).
Snake the drain if plunging fails.
⚠️ Call a plumber if problem continues (may be a main line issue).
🛠️ 8. Faulty Shower Valve
Symptoms: No hot/cold water, temperature fluctuations.
Common Causes: Worn-out cartridge or valve seat.
How to Fix:
Turn off water supply.
Replace the cartridge (model-specific—check manual).
Test for leaks after reassembly.
✅ Cost: $20-$100 for parts.
🧼 9. Smelly Drains
Symptoms: Sewage odor from sink/shower.
Common Causes: Dry P-trap or bacteria buildup.
How to Fix:
Run water in unused drains to refill P-traps.
Pour baking soda + vinegar followed by hot water.
Clean overflow holes in sinks.
🚪 10. Loose or Leaky Showerhead
Symptoms: Dripping, spraying in wrong directions.
Common Causes: Worn-out washer or loose connection.
How to Fix:
Tighten with pliers (wrap threads with tape first).
Replace the washer inside the showerhead.
🔧 When to Call a Plumber
While DIY fixes work for minor issues, call a pro for:
Major pipe leaks (especially behind walls)
Sewage backups
No water at all (could be a main line issue)
💡 Prevention Tips
✔ Use drain covers to catch hair.
✔ Avoid flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones).
✔ Inspect pipes annually for leaks.
Final Thought
Most bathroom plumbing problems are easy to fix with basic tools. Try these solutions first—you’ll save hundreds on plumber fees!
Which problem are you tackling? Ask questions below! 🛠️
(Need more help? Check our guide on [how to find a good plumber].)