7 Subtle Signs Your Home Has a Hidden Plumbing Problem

Plumbing issues aren’t always as obvious as a burst pipe or a horrendously overflowing toilet. Many serious issues start small and, when ignored, compound into expensive repairs and water damage that you likely know and hate. By identifying the seven common early signs of plumbing issues, though, you can recognize when it’s time to call the best plumber in Colorado Springs, CO, for a fix. 

Slow Draining Sinks or Tubs

The first hidden common issue you might overlook is slow-draining sinks or tubs, specifically if the drainage speed used to be quicker. This can indicate a potential buildup in your pipes or a deeper clog somewhere down the sewer line. Given that it could be a sign of a larger blockage, consistently contributing to it can lead to the issue worsening. Try to use a drain cleaner or call a plumber for an inspection if that doesn’t work and the issue persists. 

Unexplained Spikes in Your Water Bill

Another common yet often overlooked issue is unexplained spikes in the water bill. This could be indicative of a hidden leak, potentially behind a wall, under the floor, or in your yard. Wasted water might not seem like much on a single utility statement, but it can add up to hundreds per year. Additionally, a slow leak can lead to structural damage that results in larger and more costly repairs over time. Try to track usage and call a plumber for leak detection services if you can’t find an obvious cause of the issue.

Musty Odors or Mildew Smell

If you happen to notice any odd odors or mildew smells that didn’t use to be there, it’s possible you have moisture lingering around your home somewhere. Hidden water can promote mold growth, which affects both air quality and health over time. The smell is a key indicator. Quickly inspect under your sinks and around appliances that utilize water to look for any mold. When in doubt, schedule a professional inspection if you can’t locate a source and the smell remains.

Read more: Plumbing code for vent pipes

Gurgling Sounds in Your Pipes

While some sounds when you flush or drain your pipes are normal, gurgling sounds should raise some red flags. This can be a sign that air is trapped in the plumbing system, potentially stemming from a blocked vent or developed clog. The reason addressing this is important is that if air is indeed trapped, it could lead to further backups or inefficient drainage. Have a plumber inspect the vent system or snake the drain to remove any blockages that may be causing the issue.

Discolored or Warped Walls, Ceilings, or Flooring

Noticing warped walls or discolorations on those walls is another sign of plumbing issues that you may accidentally overlook. It can be a sign that there is water damage that has stemmed from a slow and persistent leak. Structural damage or mold growth could be developing behind the surface of the wall, which is why it needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Rather than painting over the discoloration, find and fix the source of the issue, then repair the damage with the help of a plumber.

Low Water Pressure

The sixth issue you need to keep an eye out for in your home that could indicate a plumbing issue is low water pressure. In most cases, this means that a blockage, corroded pipes, or a potential leak is somewhere in the system. This matters because it can be further indicative of an underlying issue with the plumbing system or hidden damage. Test all fixtures in your home if you notice this and, assuming it’s house-wide, call a plumber for a system check as soon as possible. If the issue affects multiple areas, it may be time to consult professionals who specialize in residential plumbing services to diagnose and resolve the root cause efficiently.

Water Heater Running Constantly or Leaking

The final common plumbing issue overlooked in homes is the water heater running constantly or even leaking. This typically means that there is sediment buildup or internal leaks in the water heater that are leading to issues. This is problematic as it can drive up energy bills and shorten the water heater unit’s overall lifespan. To avoid this, flush the tank annually or call a plumber if you notice a significant leak or drop in performance. 

Bolster the plumbing in your home 

All of the above subtle signs can alert you to underlying plumbing issues in your home. It’s due to this that you need to be constantly aware to avoid the problems. By catching issues early, you can save thousands in damage or repair costs. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a local plumber to get a professional inspection and peace of mind for your home.

Written by Billy Guteng. April 18, 2025

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.