Plumbing

Most home plumbing issues are avoidable with a bit of preventative maintenance. That said, keeping your home flush and flowing requires a basic understanding of how plumbing works. We’ve compiled a library of articles to help you tackle the most common plumbing repairs and who to call when you need a professional opinion.

Modern white bathroom
Photo: Minette Hand / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Modern white bathroom
Photo: Minette Hand / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A mother with her kid doing the dishes in the kitchen
Allie Ogletree
•
May 16, 2025
May 16, 2025
Repairing a main water line is an urgent matter, so use this guide to get an idea of how much main water line repairs cost to act fast.
A woman washing her hands
Lauren Bongard
•
May 14, 2025
May 14, 2025
A main water shut-off valve controls water flow for your entire home. Here we break down the cost to replace a main water shut-off valve.
Modern white bathroom with bathtub and wooden floor
C.E. Larusso
•
Jun 13, 2025
Jun 13, 2025
This guide to toilet installation cost covers what you can expect to pay when adding a new toilet to an existing or new bathroom.
A white toilet bowl in a bathroom
Mariel Loveland
•
May 13, 2025
May 13, 2025
What is a Pittsburgh toilet? This relic of the past (also known as a “Pittsburgh potty”) may seem strange, but it had a definitive purpose.
Shower with white marble and mosaic
Stephanie Mickelson
•
May 5, 2025
May 5, 2025
The hidden parts of your shower drain keep everything flowing. Reference our shower drain plumbing diagram to understand how your shower drain works.
A woman trying running water from the shower
Catherine Hiles
•
Apr 22, 2025
Apr 22, 2025
Fluctuating shower temperatures can indicate a problem with your shower. Learn why your shower water is cold, but your sink water is hot, and how to fix it.
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shower running
Dan Simms  •  Jun 30, 2025
3 Reasons Your Shower Won’t Stop Running and What To Do
A shower that won’t stop running is frustrating but can also cost you money. Learn how to identify and fix the problem, as well as when to call a pro.
steam from flowing shower
Dan Simms  •  Jun 30, 2025
Why Does My Shower Only Have Hot Water? 6 Underlying Causes and How to Fix Them
Are you wondering why your shower is only getting hot water? It’s an uncommon issue but often an easy one to fix. Learn what causes it and how to fix it.
A bright bathroom with a white bathtub
Dan Simms  •  Jun 30, 2025
Why Is My Bathtub Leaking From Underneath? 5 Causes and How to Fix Them
If your bathtub is leaking from underneath, there are a few things to check to find the source and get a permanent fix in place to minimize water damage.
Doorless walk-in shower with green tiles on the floor and walls
Dan Simms  •  Jun 30, 2025
Why Is Sewage Coming Up in My Shower Drain? 4 Underlying Reasons and What to Do
Why is sewage coming up in your shower? Learn how to identify the underlying issue, what to do about it, and when to call a pro.
Asphalt shingles and vent on roof
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Jun 27, 2025
How Many Plumbing Vents Should a House Have?
As you look into the ins and outs of your home plumbing system, it’s common to wonder—how many plumbing vents should a house have? The answer depends on several factors.
Plumber fixing toilet with silicone
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Jun 19, 2025
The Ins and Outs of Plumber’s Putty vs. Silicone​
Understanding the difference between plumber's putty and silicone​ will help you choose the right one for the job—read on to find out more.
Mature man taking a shower in the bathroom
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Jun 18, 2025
How Long Should Hot Water Last in the Shower? A Quick Guide
If you like long showers, you may be wondering: How long should the hot water last in the shower? The answer depends on a few factors, so read on to find out.
Plumber using a wrench to tighten a siphon under a sink
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Jun 17, 2025
Understanding the Differences Between a Pipefitter and a Plumber
Even though their jobs are similar, we explore the difference between a plumber and a pipefitter, so you know who to hire for your project.
Modern white bathroom with bathtub and wooden floor
C.E. Larusso  •  Jun 13, 2025
How Much Does Toilet Installation Cost? [2025 Data]
This guide to toilet installation cost covers what you can expect to pay when adding a new toilet to an existing or new bathroom.
Mom and daughter wash dishes at kitchen sink
Allie Ogletree  •  Jun 11, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Service a Tankless Water Heater? [2025 Data]
Servicing a tankless water heater can help it run smoothly and last for years to come. This guide explains all the factors that affect tankless water heater maintenance costs.
Technician carefully lifts a water heater while wearing gloves in a well-lit garage with tools and supplies on the counter nearby.
Heather Ayer  •  Jun 11, 2025
How Much Does Water Heater Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]
Looking to replace or upgrade your water heater? Use this water heater replacement cost guide to see what the work will cost and what factors affect your total.
Repairwoman inspecting pipes
Deane Biermeier  •  Jun 11, 2025
Pipe Volume Calculator: Here's How to Find the Volume of a Pipe
Understanding how to find the volume of a pipe is helpful for diagnosing or upgrading plumbing or HVAC systems. This calculator helps you estimate your needs.