Everyone has the occasional plumbing mishap, from clogged drains to overworked disposals. But knowing when a problem is beyond a DIY fix is key. Brad Gilkey, owner of 4Gs Plumbing in Atascadero, explains why recognizing serious plumbing issues early can save time and money.
PASO ROBLES, Calif., Oct. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Everyone experiences occasional plumbing issues. Too many potato peelings in the garbage disposal. Take our eyes off the toddler for two seconds, and she tries to flush her teddy bear down the toilet. The bathroom drain slows down, and after a quick trip to the hardware store and some drain cleaning product, the problem is solved! Brad Gilkey, owner of 4Gs Plumbing, serving Atascadero, said, "What's more important than the occasional DIY fix is recognizing when the problem is bigger than the plunger."
Relying on a plunger, a commercial drain cleaning solution, or DIY drain snaking can complicate a larger problem. When a drain repeatedly clogs and drains slowly, or a toilet backs up regularly, there's usually a problem deeper in the plumbing system. Plunging can drive the clog deeper into the system, creating a bigger blockage with each use. Snaking may not reach the entire blockage, and drain cleaners rarely remove the entire clog.
Drain problems can also be caused by damaged and broken pipes and root invasion. Clogs can be caused by occasional issues, such as the toddler flushing her teddy bear, or from long-term issues, such as grease build-up in the kitchen drain, soap and shampoo residue, and hair clogging the shower drain. Flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet can also cause clogs that build up over time and create serious sewer pipe back-ups.
The Atascadero plumber offers the following list of signs that a plumbing problem has gone beyond what the plunger can clear out.
Of course, leaking faucets and pipes, small drips, visible water stains on ceilings and walls, drains that back up, and a sudden increase in the water bill are signs of trouble that most people are used to. But, there are more, some that people don't associate with plumbing problems.
- Odd colored water that looks rusty or brown, or contains sediment, can indicate old, damaged, or broken pipes.
- Persistent mold or mildew that returns after cleaning can indicate a plumbing leak.
- Puddles of water, or "mushy" damp ground when there hasn't been any rain.
- Gurgling drains can indicate a blockage in the plumbing system.
- Banging or rattling noises, known as water hammer, indicate a change in water pressure that may be due to a blockage or damage.
- A sudden drop in water pressure can also indicate a problem.
- Odd and unpleasant smells, including a musty smell from mold. Smells coming from drains or toilets are a sign of problems.
- A toilet that seems to run longer than usual is most likely due to worn parts. Normally easy to replace, some people prefer not to do this task themselves and call their plumber.
These signs are usually indications that something has gone wrong in the plumbing system. Few property owners have the sophisticated detection equipment needed to quickly locate a serious or potentially serious plumbing problem.
Most professional plumbers, such as the Atascadero plumber from 4Gs Plumbing, have advanced detection devices already in their trucks. Tools like sewer cameras, leak detectors, and advanced tools for removing deep clogs, including tree roots, identify and repair problems very quickly.
4G's Plumbing has been the California Central Coast's trusted plumbing partner since 2014, serving Paso Robles, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, and throughout North County and SLO County. As a fully licensed and insured plumbing company, the team delivers reliable solutions for both residential and commercial clients with:
- A fleet of fully stocked service trucks, ready to tackle any plumbing challenge.
- Complete plumbing solutions, including leak detection and repair, advanced drain and pipe cleaning.
- Water heater services for both tankless and traditional systems.
- Gas line installations and preventative maintenance programs.
4Gs Plumbing
(805) 835-3024
Media Contact
Jacquelyn Iddings, Access Publishing, 8052269890, [email protected]
SOURCE 4Gs Plumbing
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