Plumbing problems can sneak up on any homeowner... and in North Texas, our shifting soil, hard water, and unpredictable weather can make things even trickier. Whether you live in Justin, Denton, Northlake, Haslet, or the surrounding areas, understanding the most common plumbing issues can help you catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
Here are ten of the most frequent plumbing problems we see in North Texas homes, and how to know when it’s time to call Wilcox Plumbing, your local, trusted licensed professionals.
1. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
That steady drip isn’t just annoying, it’s wasteful. A single leaking faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year and drive up your water bill.
Common causes: Worn-out washers or seals, corrosion, or high water pressure.
When to call a pro: If tightening or replacing a washer doesn’t stop the leak, it could point to a bigger issue in your plumbing system.
Related resource: How to Fix a Leaky Pipe or Faucet
2. Slow or Clogged Drains
Slow drains are often caused by hair, soap scum, or grease buildup. In older North Texas homes, shifting foundations can also affect pipe alignment, making clogs more frequent.
Quick tip: Avoid chemical drain cleaners as they can damage your pipes over time.
When to call a pro: If multiple drains are slow, it might signal a blockage in your main sewer line.
Related resource: What to Do When Your Sewer Backs Up
3. Low Water Pressure
If your shower feels more like a drizzle, mineral buildup from hard water may be restricting flow. Another common culprit is a hidden leak in your system.
When to call a pro: If pressure drops throughout the home, schedule a pressure test to rule out a major leak.
4. Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons a day. Often, the problem is a worn flapper or faulty fill valve.
DIY check: Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If color seeps into the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a leak.
When to call a pro: If parts have been replaced and it’s still running, there may be a deeper issue with your water pressure or valve seal.
5. Water Heater Problems
If your water heater isn’t keeping up, or you notice rust-colored water, strange noises, or leaks, sediment buildup could be the cause. North Texas has mineral-rich water, which accelerates buildup inside your tank.
Prevention tip: Flush your water heater at least once a year to keep it efficient.
When to call a pro: If water temperature fluctuates or your tank is more than 10 years old.
Related resource: How to Flush Your Water Heater
6. Sewer Line Backups
Tree roots, collapsed pipes, and grease buildup can block your main sewer line. Warning signs include multiple drains backing up at once or gurgling noises from your toilets.
When to call a pro: Immediately. Sewer issues can lead to health hazards and costly property damage if ignored.
7. Slab or Hidden Leaks
Our North Texas clay soil expands and contracts with moisture changes, which can crack foundations and underground plumbing.
Warning signs: Unexplained water bills, damp carpet, or hot spots on the floor.
When to call a pro: As soon as you suspect a slab leak. Fast detection can save your foundation and prevent major repairs.
8. Gas Line Problems
Even minor gas leaks are dangerous. If you smell sulfur or notice hissing sounds near gas lines or appliances, leave your home immediately and call 911, then contact a licensed plumber once it’s safe.
When to call a pro: Always. Gas line work must be handled by licensed professionals.
Related service: Gas Line Installation & Repair
9. Frozen or Burst Pipes
Although freezes aren’t frequent in Texas, we’ve seen what a few cold nights can do. Frozen pipes expand and burst, flooding your home.
Prevention tip: Insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip during extreme cold.
When to call a pro: If you suspect a burst pipe or notice a sudden loss of water pressure.
10. Aging or Corroded Pipes
Older homes in the Denton County area may still have galvanized or cast iron pipes that corrode from the inside.
Warning signs: Rusty water, frequent leaks, or reduced water flow.
When to call a pro: If your home’s plumbing is more than 40 years old, ask about repiping options for long-term peace of mind.
When to Call Wilcox Plumbing
While some plumbing problems start small, they can escalate quickly. If you’re dealing with leaks, clogs, or water heater issues, don’t wait until it becomes an emergency.
At Wilcox Plumbing, our licensed technicians provide honest service, upfront pricing, and dependable solutions for homeowners across Justin, Denton, Northlake, Haslet, and beyond.
Contact us today to schedule service or request a free estimate: Contact Wilcox Plumbing
Quick Homeowner Maintenance Checklist
Flush your water heater yearly
Inspect under sinks monthly for leaks
Avoid flushing wipes or feminine products
Use drain strainers in tubs and showers
Schedule annual plumbing inspections