Meridian Plumbing

The Most Common Plumbing Problems in Meridian Homes (And How to Avoid Them)

Every homeowner in Meridian eventually faces a plumbing problem. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or something more serious like a sewer line issue, these problems can be disruptive—and expensive—if left unchecked. The good news? Most of them are preventable with a little know-how and proactive care.

At Plumbing Solutions of Idaho, we’ve been fixing plumbing problems in Meridian homes for years. We know the most common issues that affect homes in our area and what causes them. In this post, we’ll walk you through what to watch for and how to avoid the most frequent plumbing problems we encounter.

1. Hard Water Buildup in Meridian Plumbing

Meridian’s water supply tends to have high mineral content, also known as “hard water.” Over time, these minerals—mainly calcium and magnesium—build up in your pipes, fixtures, and appliances.

What hard water causes:

• Reduced water pressure
• Clogged showerheads and faucets
• Shortened lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers
• White, chalky residue on fixtures

How to avoid hard water:

Installing a water softener system is one of the best long-term solutions for Meridian homes. It protects your plumbing system, improves appliance efficiency, and even makes your skin and laundry feel better

2. Clogged Drains and Toilets

One of the most common calls we get is for slow or clogged drains. In kitchens, grease, soap, and food debris build up inside pipes. In bathrooms, it’s usually hair, soap scum, or non-flushable items.

What clogged drains cause:

• Backed-up sinks and tubs
• Overflowing toilets
• Bad odors from drains

How to avoid clogged drains:

Avoid flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones), sanitary items, or excessive paper. In the kitchen, don’t pour grease or oil down the drain. Use drain strainers in showers and tubs to catch hair. And consider a professional drain cleaning once a year to keep things flowing smoothly.

3. Meridian Plumbing & Running Toilets

A constantly running toilet may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day—not to mention increase your utility bill.

What running toilets cause:

• Higher water bills
• Increased wear on internal toilet parts
• Water waste

How to avoid running toilets:

Regularly check the flapper, fill valve, and chain inside your toilet tank. If your toilet continues to run after flushing, give us a call. We’ll fix or replace the components quickly and affordably.

4. Leaky Fixtures and Pipes

Even small leaks can lead to big problems over time. In Meridian homes, leaky faucets, worn-out pipe joints, and water heater leaks are especially common in older properties or homes with hard water exposure.

What leaky fixtures and pipes cause:

• Mold and mildew
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Rotting cabinets or flooring
• Higher water bills

How to avoid leaky fixtures and pipes

Inspect under sinks, around appliances, and behind toilets regularly. If you notice dripping or pooling water, don’t wait. Early repairs are much cheaper than major water damage remediation.

5. Sewer Line Issues in Meridian Plumbing

Older neighborhoods in Meridian may have original sewer lines made of outdated materials like clay or cast iron. These can corrode, crack, or collapse over time—especially when tree roots intrude into the pipes.

What sewer line issues lead to:

• Sewage backups in toilets or tubs
• Slow-draining water throughout the home
• Gurgling sounds in plumbing

How to avoid sewer line issues:

Schedule a CCTV drain inspection every few years. Our camera technology allows us to see the inside of your sewer lines without digging, so we can spot root intrusion or deterioration early. If we catch the problem in time, trenchless sewer repair may be an option.

6. Failing Water Heaters in Meridian Plumbing

Hot water is something we take for granted—until we don’t have it. In Meridian, sediment buildup from hard water is one of the most common causes of premature water heater failure.

What failing water heaters cause:

• Inconsistent hot water supply
• Strange noises coming from the tank
• Discolored or foul-smelling hot water
• Water leaks near the base of the unit

How to avoid failing water heaters:

Flush your water heater once or twice a year to remove sediment. Keep an eye on the age of your unit—most last 8–12 years. If you’re due for a replacement, we can recommend energy-efficient tankless or traditional options that suit your household’s needs.

7. Meridian Plumbing & Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be frustrating and is often a sign of a deeper issue. It’s especially common in homes with older galvanized pipes or mineral buildup.

What low water pressure causes:

• Weak flow in faucets and showers
• Slow appliance fill times
• Difficulty using multiple fixtures at once

How to avoid it:
Have your pipes inspected for corrosion or clogs. We can replace old piping with more durable materials like PEX or copper to restore strong, even pressure throughout your home.

8. Frozen Pipes (Yes, They Happen with Meridian Plumbing!)

While winters in Meridian aren’t as harsh as other parts of Idaho, cold snaps do occur. Uninsulated or exposed pipes in crawlspaces, attics, or exterior walls are at risk of freezing and bursting.

What frozen pipes cause:

• No water from taps
• Pipe ruptures
• Flood damage

How to avoid it:

Insulate vulnerable pipes, disconnect hoses before freezing temps, and let a faucet drip during overnight cold spells. If you suspect a frozen pipe, shut off your water and call us immediately.

Prevention Is Key

The best way to protect your Meridian home from plumbing headaches is with routine maintenance and inspections. At Plumbing Solutions of Idaho, we offer plumbing tune-ups that help identify small issues before they become costly repairs. We also provide emergency services for those unexpected problems that happen at the worst possible time.

Being proactive now can save you money, prevent damage, and keep your home comfortable year-round.

From hard water damage to sewer line surprises, plumbing issues are a reality for many Meridian homeowners. But with a little care and the right team on your side, most problems can be prevented—or solved quickly and efficiently.

If you’re experiencing any of the issues we’ve discussed or just want a second opinion, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re proud to serve Meridian and the surrounding Treasure Valley with professional plumbing services you can count on.

About Plumbing Solutions of Idaho in Meridian, Idaho

Plumbing Solutions of Idaho is a trusted, full-service plumbing company proudly serving Meridian, Boise, and communities across the Treasure Valley. Whether you need a skilled Boise plumber to fix toilets, clear drains, repair water heaters, or handle full repipes, our team is equipped to deliver prompt, professional service. As your go-to source for expert plumbing in Idaho, we offer dependable solutions for both residential and commercial properties. With a commitment to quality work and local integrity, Plumbing Solutions of Idaho is the name to call when you need reliable plumbing in Meridian and throughout Southern Idaho.