Is It Time to Call the Pros? 6 Signs You Need a Professional Plumber
Every homeowner loves a successful DIY project, but when it comes to the complex network of pipes, valves, and heaters that keep your home running, some things are best left to the experts. Minor issues can quickly turn into major water damage if not handled correctly.
At John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’ve spent over 30 years helping homeowners identify those “red flag” moments before they become expensive emergencies. Here are six signs that it’s time to put down the wrench and call in a professional.
1. Multiple Slow Drains
If one sink is draining slowly, it’s likely a localized clog you can handle with a plunger. However, if your kitchen sink, bathtub, and toilet are all acting sluggish at once, you’re likely facing a main sewer line blockage.
 * The Risk: Continuing to use your water can cause sewage to back up into your home. A professional plumber uses specialized cameras to find the blockage and clear it safely.
2. Sudden Drops in Water Pressure
If your once-powerful shower has turned into a weak trickle, something is wrong. While it could be a simple fix like a clogged aerator, persistent low pressure across the house often points to:
 * Hidden pipe leaks
 * Cracked main lines
 * Significant sediment buildup
 * Failing pressure regulators
3. “Ghost” Sounds in Your Pipes
Your plumbing should be seen and not heard. If you hear these noises, your system is under stress:
 * Banging/Clunking: Often “water hammer,” which can damage pipe joints.
 * Gurgling: Suggests air is trapped in the system or your vents are blocked.
 * Bubbling: If your toilet bubbles when you run the sink, air is being forced back through the system—a clear sign of a deep clog.
4. Unexplained Spikes in Your Water Bill
Did your water bill suddenly jump, even though your habits haven’t changed? This is the number one indicator of a hidden leak. Whether it’s a slab leak under your foundation or a pipe pinhole behind a wall, these “silent killers” waste thousands of gallons and can cause mold or structural rot.
5. Discolored Water
When you turn on the tap, the water should be crystal clear.
 * Rusty/Brown Water: Usually indicates your pipes are corroding or your water heater tank is rusting from the inside out.
 * Green/Blue Tints: Often a sign of copper pipe corrosion.
 * Cloudy/Milky Water: Can indicate air in the pipes or a failing water softener.
6. The Smell of Sewage
If you catch a whiff of “rotten eggs” or sewer gas near your drains or in your yard, don’t ignore it. This often means a P-trap has dried out or, more seriously, a sewer vent pipe has cracked. This isn’t just a smell issue; sewer gas can be a health hazard for your family.
Why Choose John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air?
When you see these signs, you need a team you can trust. At John Stevenson Plumbing, we don’t just “patch” problems—we provide long-term solutions.
 * Expert Diagnostics: We use state-of-the-art leak detection and camera inspection technology.
 * Upfront Pricing: You’ll know the cost before we start—no “hidden fee” surprises.
 * The 93% Rule: We stock our trucks so heavily that we complete 93% of repairs on the very first visit.
 * Trusted Professionals: Our technicians are background-checked, drug-tested, and highly trained.
> Don’t let a small warning sign turn into a major flood. If you’ve noticed any of these red flags in your home, it’s time for a professional check-up.
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Click here to schedule your inspection with John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air today!
Or, if you need immediate help, give us a call at (760) 276-6690. We’re proud to be “A Homeowner’s Best Friend” since 1990!
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