5 Common Plumbing Problems in East Texas and How to Prevent Them

Plumbing issues can strike when you least expect them — and in East Texas, the combination of shifting soil, aging infrastructure, and seasonal weather changes makes certain plumbing problems more common than others. At Carroll Plumbing, we’ve seen it all, and we know how to fix it fast. But better than fixing a problem is preventing it in the first place.

Below are five of the most common plumbing problems we see in East Texas — and what you can do to keep them from turning into costly emergencies.

1. Clogged Drains and Backed-Up Pipes

Slow drains and full-on clogs are one of the most common complaints from East Texas homeowners. Grease, hair, food particles, soap scum, and hard water buildup can restrict water flow over time, eventually leading to complete blockages.

Prevention Tip:
Avoid pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink. Use drain catchers in showers and tubs to trap hair and debris. For long-term care, schedule professional drain cleaning once a year — especially if you notice recurring slowdowns or odors.

2. Leaky Faucets and Running Toilets

Even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time — not to mention spike your water bill. In East Texas, high mineral content in the water can wear down rubber washers and seals faster than normal, causing leaks and running toilets.

Prevention Tip:
Check your faucets and toilets regularly for signs of leaks or phantom flushing. If you hear running water when nothing is in use, it’s time to call Carroll Plumbing. We offer expert toilet, faucet, and sink repairs to fix the issue before it gets worse.

3. Pipe Leaks and Corrosion

Pipes don’t last forever — especially in areas with hard water or fluctuating soil conditions like East Texas. Corrosion, cracks, and joint failures are all common, particularly in older homes or systems with galvanized pipes.

Prevention Tip:
Keep an eye out for discolored water, reduced pressure, or visible signs of moisture around your plumbing. Consider upgrading your system with professional repiping services if your pipes are 30+ years old.

4. Sewer Line Damage

Tree roots, shifting soil, and aging materials are frequent culprits behind sewer line problems. When these lines become blocked or broken, they can cause foul odors, drain backups, and even soggy patches in your yard.

Prevention Tip:
If you notice multiple drains backing up or unusual smells inside or outside your home, don’t wait. A sewer camera inspection can reveal issues early, and we offer trenchless sewer repairs to fix the problem with minimal disruption.

5. Frozen or Burst Pipes in Winter

Though East Texas winters are generally mild, the occasional hard freeze can wreak havoc on your pipes. Outdoor faucets, exposed plumbing, and poorly insulated areas are especially at risk.

Prevention Tip:
Before the first cold snap, insulate your pipes, disconnect hoses, and protect outdoor spigots with covers. If you’ve had pipe damage in the past, Carroll Plumbing can help with insulation upgrades and emergency plumbing services if a freeze does catch you off guard.

Proactive Plumbing Care Starts with Carroll Plumbing

At Carroll Plumbing, we believe in solving problems before they start. From annual maintenance to emergency repairs, our licensed and insured team is here to help East Texas homeowners keep their plumbing systems flowing smoothly.

Whether you need drain cleanings, fixture repairs, water line replacements, or a full sewer line inspection, we’ve got you covered.

Contact Carroll Plumbing Today!

Don’t let small issues turn into costly repairs. Call Carroll Plumbing at (903) 954-0132 or (903) 724-3282 or contact us online to schedule service or a preventative inspection. We’re proud to serve East Texas with honest, dependable plumbing you can count on.