Top 10 Plumbing Issues & DIY Fixes from a Johnston, RI Plumber

Plumbing issues can be a real headache for homeowners in Johnston, RI. Whether you're dealing with a dripping faucet, frozen pipe, or need boiler maintenance, DiRocco Plumbing & Heating is here to help. With over 25+ years of experience, our team offers reliable plumbing repair services across Cranston, Warwick, and nearby areas.
This guide will walk you through 10 of the most common plumbing problems we encounter and how to fix them, whether through a simple DIY fix or professional support from a trusted local plumber.
1. Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet wastes hundreds of gallons of water annually and can drive up your water bill.
How to Fix:
- Replace worn-out washers or O-rings
- For cartridge faucets, replace the entire cartridge
In many cases, faucet replacement is required due to the difficulty of sourcing compatible repair components
2. Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can burst and cause serious water damage during colder months in Johnston, RI.
Prevention & Fixes:
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Keep your home temperature above 55°F
- Let faucets drip during freezing weather
If your pipe is already frozen, call a plumber before it bursts
3. Running Toilets
Running toilets can waste hundreds of gallons of water daily. Common Causes:
- Worn flapper
- Misaligned float
- Leaky fill valve
We offer quick and cost-effective toilet repairs to stop the waste.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be a symptom of hidden plumbing issues. Causes:
- Pipe corrosion
- Sediment buildup
- Municipal supply issues
We perform pressure tests and plumbing line inspections to find the cause.
5. Leaky Pipes
Leaks can quietly cause mold, mildew, and structural damage. Warning Signs:
- Water stains
- Musty odors
- Mold growth
Let our experts help repair or replace damaged pipes promptly.
6. Water Heater Issues
Hot water problems? These can often be resolved with maintenance or replacement. What to Check:
- Pilot light (gas units)
- Thermostat settings
- Tank sediment buildup
We repair and replace both
tank and tankless water heaters, and provide:
- Tankless water heater descaling
- Annual preventative maintenance
7. Boiler Maintenance & Replacement
Boilers play a critical role in home heating, especially in older RI homes. Our Boiler Services Include:
- Annual boiler preventative maintenance
- Boiler replacement for outdated or inefficient systems
- Performance checks to improve energy efficiency
8. Sump Pump Problems
Many homes rely on sump pumps to prevent basement flooding. Check or Replace If:
- The pump doesn’t turn on
- It makes odd noises
- Water isn’t pumping out
Our team installs and replaces sump pump systems to keep your basement dry year-round.
9. Slab Leaks
Leaks beneath concrete slabs can lead to serious structural issues if undetected. Symptoms of Slab Leaks:
- Warm or damp spots on floors
- Cracked flooring or foundation
- Increased water bills
We use detection tools and repair methods to resolve slab leaks with minimal disruption.
10. Water Filtration Issues
Tap water in some areas may contain hard minerals or contaminants. Solutions We Offer:
- Whole-home water filtration system installation
- Filter maintenance and replacement
- Improved water taste and appliance lifespan
Additional Services We Offer:
Why Choose DiRocco Plumbing & Heating?
- Backed by decades of hands-on experience, DiRocco Plumbing delivers dependable plumbing solutions throughout Cranston, Warwick, Johnston, and surrounding areas.
- Fully licensed and insured
- Proudly serving Johnston, Cranston, Warwick, and surrounding areas
“Pat and his team did a great job. They came out and educated us on our boiler system and provided 3 options for a solution to solve the hot water issue. Once we decided, they came out shortly after and fixed it and now I have perfectly running hot water. We are beyond grateful for DiRocco Services” —
M Nicole
We proudly meet EPA water efficiency standards and provide eco-friendly plumbing upgrades.
Don’t Let Plumbing Problems Drain You!
Need plumbing help in Johnston, RI? Contact DiRocco Plumbing & Heating today for expert, local plumbing solutions. Call now or schedule online!
FAQs
Q. What plumbing services do you offer in Johnston, RI?
A.
We provide faucet repairs and replacements, boiler maintenance and replacements, tankless and traditional water heater services, sump pumps, water filtration systems, and more.
Q. Can I prevent frozen pipes?
A.
Yes. Insulate exposed pipes, keep your home above 55°F, and let faucets drip during freezing weather.
Q. Do you service tankless water heaters?
A.
Yes. We offer descaling, annual preventative maintenance, and replacement for tankless water heaters.
Q. What signs point to a slab leak?
A.
Warm or wet spots on floors, cracks in flooring, or rising water bills may indicate a slab leak.
Q. Do you offer boiler maintenance?
A.
Yes. We offer annual boiler inspections, tune-ups, and full replacements for older units.
Q. Can you install a water filtration system?
A.
Absolutely. We install and maintain whole-home filtration systems to improve water quality and appliance life.