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.
Professional plumber is shaking hands with happy client
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Feb 27, 2025
Feb 27, 2025
Emergency plumbers cost between 1.5 and 3 times as much as a typical plumber. Get specifics for your plumbing issue and city in our guide.
A cozy minimalist bathroom with a white bathtub
Margaret Wack
•
Feb 26, 2025
Feb 26, 2025
We’ll cover the cost of replacing a shower or bathtub drain, whether you can tackle this repair yourself, and what other projects to consider along the way.
Man repairing under sink.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
Feb 26, 2025
Feb 26, 2025
Plumbing inspection costs depend on the issue you’re looking into and the size of your home. Learn what you can expect to pay.
Mother and son washing dishes
Jacqueline DeMarco
•
Feb 26, 2025
Feb 26, 2025
If you’re not sure who to call when a water main breaks, learn which professional can help you get the job done right.
House with two car garage
Jacqueline DeMarco
•
Feb 26, 2025
Feb 26, 2025
What causes a water main break? Learn what hazards to watch out for, what happens when a water main breaks, and who you can call to fix yours.
Shutting off main water valve in the basement
Amy Freeman
•
Feb 27, 2025
Feb 27, 2025
Water main problems can range from small, easily fixable issues to extensive projects. Ask your plumber these questions to help expedite water main repairs.
Need help finding the right pro?
Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.
View all articles
Little girl helping dad wash the dishes
Amy Freeman  •  Feb 28, 2025
What's the Difference Between a Septic Dry Well vs. a Leach Field?
In rural areas, the type of septic system you choose makes a difference. Learn more about a septic dry well versus a leach field to see which one is right for you.
Septic system tank installed in the yard
Audrey Bruno  •  Feb 28, 2025
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Septic Systems?
Does homeowners insurance cover septic systems? The answer depends on what kind of damage you’re dealing with and how it occurred.
Nicely landscaped yards
Gemma Johnstone  •  Feb 28, 2025
Replacing a Sewer Line From Your House to the Main Line: 8 Things to Consider
It’s a big job to replace a sewer line, so it’s important to consider all of your options. Learn why it’s important to get a pro to investigate the cause of your sewer line problem, how much a replacement will cost, and if you really need it.
A person unclogging a main sewer line
Amy Freeman  •  Feb 27, 2025
5 Questions to Ask About Your Sewer Main
An unpleasant smell in your house may signal that your sewer main needs to be cleaned. Ask your plumber these sewer questions before the scent gets worse.
Septic system tank installed in the yard
Amy Freeman  •  Feb 27, 2025
5 Questions to Ask About Your Septic System
Slow drains, gurgling, and foul smells are signs your septic tank may need to be emptied. Here are questions for your septic system pro on how to maintain it.
Shutting off main water valve in the basement
Amy Freeman  •  Feb 27, 2025
6 Questions to Ask About Water Main Repairs and Installation
Water main problems can range from small, easily fixable issues to extensive projects. Ask your plumber these questions to help expedite water main repairs.
A house with a large yard and blooming gardens
Veronica Sparks  •  Feb 27, 2025
What to Do If You Can't Afford a New Septic System
Septic failure is no picnic, but it needs to be addressed. We explore cost-saving and financing options for those who can’t afford a new septic system.
Professional plumber is shaking hands with happy client
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Feb 27, 2025
How Much Does an Emergency Plumber Cost? [2025 Data]
Emergency plumbers cost between 1.5 and 3 times as much as a typical plumber. Get specifics for your plumbing issue and city in our guide.
A cozy minimalist bathroom with a white bathtub
Margaret Wack  •  Feb 26, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Bathtub or Shower Drain? [2025 Data]
We’ll cover the cost of replacing a shower or bathtub drain, whether you can tackle this repair yourself, and what other projects to consider along the way.
House with two car garage
Jacqueline DeMarco  •  Feb 26, 2025
What Causes a Water Main Break?
What causes a water main break? Learn what hazards to watch out for, what happens when a water main breaks, and who you can call to fix yours.
Sanitary sewer system
Jacqueline DeMarco  •  Feb 26, 2025
How Do You Know If You Have a Septic Tank?
How do you know if you have a septic tank? We’re breaking down how septic systems work, what they cost, how to maintain your tank, and who can repair one.
White modern house in the middle of a green field
Kate Fann  •  Feb 26, 2025
Septic Drain Field Design: A Comprehensive Guide
Your septic drain field design makes a huge difference in the efficiency of your septic system. Learn how to choose the design best suited for your property.