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
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Woman using fridge water dispenser at home
May 14, 2025
May 14, 2025
The cost to install a water line for refrigerators typically falls between $75 and $130 depending on the materials, labor, and equipment. Read on to learn more.
A woman washing her hands
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
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.
Man’s hand on shower faucet
May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025
What is a shower cartridge? This small component is often overlooked, but it’s a key part of your shower plumbing. This guide will show you how it works.
A plumber fixing a leak under the sink
May 2, 2025
May 2, 2025
Are you unsure what counts as a plumbing emergency? Keep reading to learn about common plumbing issues and how much an emergency plumbing repair service costs.
Closeup of a circular shower drain
May 3, 2025
May 3, 2025
If you're DIYing your shower drain installation, there are several details to remember, including whether a shower drain needs a P-trap. Find out more in this guide.
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porcelain shower base
Fixing a cracked shower base? Here’s how to fill a crack and save your shower before a trickle becomes a deluge.
Woman using the washing machine at home
Discover the three types of plumbing systems in your home so you can understand how they work together to help keep your home running smoothly.
yellow tap bathwater
Wondering why your bath water is yellow? Find out what’s causing it, how to solve the problem, and when to call a plumber.
A bright bathroom with a white bathtub
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.
shower running
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
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.
Doorless walk-in shower with green tiles on the floor and walls
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
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
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
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
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
This guide to toilet installation cost covers what you can expect to pay when adding a new toilet to an existing or new bathroom.