As Douglas County homeowners, we all want to save money where we can. But some plumbing problems get worse—and more expensive—when you wait or try to fix them yourself. Here are the signs it's time to call a professional.
Emergency Signs: Call Immediately
These situations require immediate professional help:
Call Us Now If You Have:
- Burst pipe or major leak – Turn off main water and call immediately
- Sewage backup – Health hazard, don't attempt to clean yourself
- No water to the house – Could indicate a main line problem
- Gas smell near water heater – Leave the house and call gas company first
- Flooding from any source – Every minute counts for water damage
Warning Signs: Schedule Service Soon
1. Slow Drains Throughout the House
A single slow drain is usually a local clog. But when multiple drains are slow, you likely have a main sewer line issue. This could be:
- Tree root intrusion (common in older Castle Rock neighborhoods)
- Main line blockage
- Collapsed or damaged sewer pipe
Don't: Keep pouring drain cleaner down every sink. Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and rarely solve main line issues.
2. Water Pressure Changes
Sudden or gradual pressure changes often indicate:
- Sudden drop: Possible pipe leak or break
- Gradual decrease: Mineral buildup, corroding pipes, or water heater issues
- Inconsistent pressure: Pressure regulator problems
3. Discolored Water
Water color tells a story:
- Brown or rust-colored: Corroding pipes or water heater issues
- Yellow: Could indicate issues with water main or old pipes
- Green or blue tint: Copper pipe corrosion
If discoloration persists after running water for several minutes, call a plumber.
4. Unusual Sounds
Your plumbing shouldn't be noisy. Listen for:
- Banging (water hammer): Pressure issues or loose pipes
- Gurgling drains: Venting problems or partial blockage
- Running water when nothing's on: Hidden leak
- Whistling from pipes: Worn valve or water pressure issues
5. Persistent Bad Smells
Sewer smells inside your home are never normal and can indicate:
- Dry P-trap (easy fix if you know which one)
- Broken or cracked sewer vent pipe
- Sewer line damage
- Septic system issues (Larkspur and Franktown homes)
6. Water Stains or Damage
Visible water damage usually means a leak has been present for a while:
- Ceiling stains (bathroom above)
- Warped flooring
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Mold or mildew growth
Finding the leak source often requires professional equipment.
7. Recurring Clogs
If you're plunging the same drain weekly, the clog is a symptom of a bigger problem:
- Buildup in the drain line
- Improper pipe slope
- Partial main line blockage
- Object stuck in the line
DIY-Friendly vs. Call a Pro
Usually DIY-Friendly
- ✓ Plunging a single clogged toilet
- ✓ Replacing a showerhead
- ✓ Replacing toilet flapper
- ✓ Unclogging a sink with a drain snake
- ✓ Replacing aerators
- ✓ Tightening a loose faucet handle
Call a Professional
- ✗ Any work involving gas lines
- ✗ Water heater installation/major repair
- ✗ Main sewer line issues
- ✗ Leaks inside walls or under slabs
- ✗ Installing new plumbing fixtures
- ✗ Anything requiring permits
The Cost of Waiting
Putting off plumbing repairs usually costs more in the long run:
- A small leak can waste 10,000+ gallons of water per year
- Water damage repair costs far exceed plumbing repair costs
- Mold remediation can cost thousands
- Minor issues become major emergencies
Choosing a Plumber in Douglas County
When you need a plumber, look for:
- Licensing: Colorado requires plumbers to be licensed
- Insurance: Protects you if something goes wrong
- Local experience: Knowledge of Douglas County homes and codes
- Upfront pricing: Written estimates before work begins
- Availability: Quick response for emergencies
Not Sure If You Need a Plumber?
Call us. We're happy to help Douglas County homeowners figure out if they have a DIY situation or need professional help. No pressure, just honest advice.
Ask Us a Question