15 Signs You Should Reach Out to a Plumber in 2025

Quick Summary: When to Call a Plumber

• Low water pressure affecting multiple fixtures.
• Slow or gurgling drains.
• No hot water or fluctuating temperatures.
• Unpleasant odors, including mold or sewage smells.
• Water stains or leaks in unexpected places.

When to Contact a Plumber: Low Water Pressure Needs Attention

If you've experienced a sudden drop in water pressure across multiple faucets in your home, it's important to take it seriously. While occasional fluctuations are normal, consistent low water pressure can point to more significant issues within your plumbing system. These can range from blockages and leaks to corrosion within your pipes. A plumber can properly diagnose the cause, whether it's due to sediment buildup, pipe damage, or a municipal water supply problem. A licensed plumber can assess your system and prevent further damage to your home’s plumbing. According to Architectural Digest, if left untreated, low water pressure can lead to leaks and water damage, making it important to address the issue early.

Time to Call a Plumber: Persistent Slow Drains Are a Red Flag

A drain that consistently moves water slowly—whether it's in your kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or bathtub—is not just an inconvenience, it’s a sign of something more serious. If plunging and chemical drain cleaners don’t seem to fix the issue, it could indicate a deeper blockage in the pipes. Sometimes, slow drains point to accumulated grease, hair, or debris in the pipes, but other times, they can indicate a more complex problem like tree root intrusion or pipe corrosion. If you’ve tried DIY methods with no success, it’s time to contact a plumber who can clear the clog safely and prevent potential damage. As noted by Southern Living, tackling slow drains early on can prevent major plumbing disasters.

Call a Plumber Immediately if There's No Hot Water

Nothing disrupts your daily routine quite like running out of hot water in the middle of a shower. If your water heater suddenly stops providing hot water or the temperature fluctuates dramatically, it may be time to seek professional help. Water heaters can fail for a variety of reasons, including electrical problems, thermostat failure, or issues with the heating element. For most people, diagnosing and repairing these issues on their own can be complicated and dangerous. A plumber has the necessary training and experience to safely repair or replace your water heater, as discussed in Architectural Digest.

When to Call a Plumber: Gurgling Sounds Need Attention

If you hear strange gurgling or bubbling noises coming from your toilet or sink drain, it's likely an indication that something is wrong with your plumbing system. The noises are often caused by air being trapped in your pipes, which can happen when a drain is clogged or your sewer line is obstructed. The issue could even be a sign of a more serious blockage or a septic system problem. Waiting too long to call a plumber can lead to more severe plumbing issues, including a potential sewer backup, which could create a hazardous situation in your home. According to The Spruce, persistent gurgling should never be ignored and requires professional attention.

When to Call a Plumber: Discolored Water Is a Serious Concern

Water discoloration is another clear sign that it’s time to reach out to a plumber. If your water is coming out of the tap brown, yellow, or cloudy, it could indicate rusted pipes or sediment buildup in the water heater. This is not just an aesthetic issue—it could affect your water quality and safety. A licensed plumber can determine whether the discoloration is from old pipes, debris, or an issue with the water supply itself. According to Architectural Digest, discolored water can be a major concern that needs immediate professional evaluation.

When to Reach Out to a Plumber: Musty or Moldy Odors Are a Warning Sign

If you’ve noticed a musty or moldy smell in your home, particularly near plumbing fixtures or water-using appliances, it could indicate hidden leaks. Plumbing leaks that aren't visible on the surface can lead to mold growth, which can be harmful to both your home and your health. Mold thrives in damp environments, and a slow, undetected leak is the perfect condition for it to flourish. Calling a plumber as soon as you notice these odors can prevent mold from spreading and minimize damage. As Better Homes & Gardens suggests, addressing plumbing-related mold early on can save you from costly repairs and health problems down the road.

When to Call a Plumber: A Running Toilet Shouldn’t Be Ignored

A constantly running toilet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can waste a significant amount of water and increase your water bill. Often, the cause is a worn-out flapper or a malfunctioning fill valve. While you might be tempted to try a DIY fix, these issues often require specialized tools and knowledge to address properly. According to Architectural Digest, ignoring a running toilet can lead to higher utility costs and further plumbing damage. If you've tried fixing it without success, it’s time to call a plumber.

When You Should Call a Plumber: Dripping Faucets Aren’t Just Annoying

A dripping faucet may seem like a minor issue, but over time, that drip can add up to wasted water and increased utility bills. In addition, if the faucet has a worn-out washer or valve, it could be a sign of deeper problems within your plumbing system. Even though a simple DIY fix might work temporarily, persistent dripping usually requires professional intervention. According to Better Homes & Gardens, having a plumber repair the faucet is often the best solution to prevent further water wastage and potential damage to surrounding areas.

When to Contact a Plumber: Frozen Pipes Are a Major Concern

Frozen pipes are a common issue in cold climates, but they can be easily overlooked until it’s too late. If your pipes freeze, they could burst, causing serious water damage to your home. The first step is to carefully thaw the pipes, but this is best left to a professional plumber who can ensure the process is done safely. If you're dealing with burst pipes, immediate plumbing assistance is essential to prevent significant damage. According to Better Homes & Gardens, professional plumbers have the experience and tools needed to safely address frozen and burst pipes.

When to Call a Plumber: Water Stains on Your Ceiling Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Water stains on your ceiling can be caused by plumbing leaks from the floors above. These leaks might be the result of an issue with the pipes running through the walls or floors, a broken toilet, or a malfunctioning water heater. Ceiling stains are often an early indicator of a much larger plumbing problem that, if left untreated, can cause major water damage to your home. If you notice water spots, it’s time to reach out to a professional plumber for an inspection and repair, as suggested by Architectural Digest.

When to Call a Plumber: Sewer Odors Are a Serious Concern

Sewer odors in your home are never a good sign. These foul smells can indicate a blockage in your sewer line or an issue with the plumbing vent system. If left unresolved, these odors can lead to health concerns and even major plumbing backups. Calling a plumber is essential to quickly identify the source of the problem and prevent further complications. According to The Spruce, sewer smells should never be ignored and require immediate professional intervention.

When to Contact a Plumber: Sump Pump Malfunctions Require Quick Action

If your sump pump is malfunctioning, it could lead to basement flooding, especially during heavy rainstorms. Sump pumps are designed to keep water from accumulating in your basement, but when they fail, water can quickly accumulate and cause significant damage. If you suspect your sump pump isn't working properly, it’s time to contact a plumber for repairs or replacement. Architectural Digest advises that regular maintenance is key to ensuring the sump pump functions properly when you need it most.