Top Plumbing Issues We See Every Day in Nashville, TN (And How We Fix Them!)
May 2, 2025
Plumbing Problems We Fix Every Day in Nashville
Hey y'all! We’re TLH Plumbing, your trusted local plumbers right here in Nashville, TN. Over the years, we've had the chance to work with hundreds of homeowners and businesses across Music City, and one thing’s for sure — when it comes to plumbing problems, we’ve seen it all!
From clogged drains to busted pipes, Nashville has some unique plumbing challenges thanks to our growing neighborhoods, old homes, and unpredictable weather. If you’re wondering what issues to watch out for in your home or business, we’ve put together a list of the top plumbing problems we tackle every day in Nashville—plus a few tips to help you stay ahead of them.
1. Hard Water Headaches
If you’ve noticed white spots on your dishes, crusty faucets, or dry skin after a shower, you’re not alone. Hard water is a big issue here in Middle Tennessee, and it can cause:
- Buildup inside pipes and appliances
- Lower water pressure
- Premature appliance failure
We help a lot of our customers by installing water softeners, which protect your plumbing system and extend the life of your water heater, dishwasher, and washing machine.
2. Old Sewer Lines Acting Up
Nashville is full of charm—and older homes. But with those beautiful historic houses come aging sewer lines. Tree roots love to sneak into cracked pipes, causing nasty backups and foul odors in the yard or basement.
Signs you might have a sewer line problem:
- Frequent clogged toilets and drains
- Bad smells coming from drains
- Soggy or overly green patches in your yard
If you’re seeing any of these signs, it’s time to give us a call. We offer sewer line inspections to catch problems early and save you money (and headaches) down the road.
3. Clogged Drains and Toilets
We get it — busy families and thriving businesses don’t always have time to think about what’s going down the drain. Whether it’s grease from the kitchen, hair from the shower, or the wrong things flushed down the toilet, clogs are one of the most common plumbing issues we fix.
Friendly tip: Always scrape plates into the trash (not the sink) and only flush toilet paper. Trust us — your pipes will thank you!
4. Frozen and Burst Pipes in Winter
When those cold snaps hit Nashville, unprotected pipes can freeze overnight—and when they thaw, they can burst. This leads to major water damage, high repair bills, and a whole lot of stress.
Here’s what we recommend to protect your home:
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas like attics and garages
- Let faucets drip when temperatures drop below freezing
- Disconnect garden hoses before winter
And if a pipe bursts? Don’t panic — TLH Plumbing is just a phone call away, ready for emergency repairs.
5. Water Heater Woes
Nobody likes a cold shower in the middle of winter! Between hard water and our changing seasons, water heater problems are super common in Nashville homes.
Common signs your water heater needs attention:
- Water isn’t getting hot enough (or stays cold)
- Rusty or odd-smelling water
- Banging or rumbling noises from the tank
If your water heater is 8-10 years old or older, it might be time for a replacement. We can help you find the perfect new system to keep your home cozy.
6. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
That little drip-drip-drip noise isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting your money. Even a slow leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time. Most leaks are caused by:
- Worn-out washers
- Corrosion
- Water pressure issues
The good news? Leaky faucets are usually a quick fix—and fixing them saves you money on your water bill!
Why Nashville Homeowners Trust TLH Plumbing
At TLH Plumbing, we’re not just plumbers—we’re your neighbors. We live and work right here in Nashville, and we care about keeping our community’s homes running smoothly. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major overhaul, we treat every customer like family and every job like it’s in our own home.
Need a plumber you can count on?
Contact TLH Plumbing today for fast, friendly, and professional plumbing service in Nashville, TN and beyond. Let’s keep your pipes flowing and your home happy!
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When you're gearing up for a long-overdue vacation, the last thing on your mind should be plumbing problems back home. Whether you're escaping the Tennessee heat or heading out for the holidays, safeguarding your home's plumbing before you leave can help you avoid leaks, bursts, and high water bills. At TLH Plumbing, we want every Tennessee homeowner to return to a problem-free home, so we’ve put together this essential vacation plumbing checklist. Why Plumbing Prep Matters Before You Leave Even a few days away can give minor plumbing issues the opportunity to escalate. Dripping faucets, frozen pipes (in winter), or water heater malfunctions can become costly disasters if left unchecked. A quick plumbing prep not only protects your home but also gives you peace of mind while you’re away. 1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply This is the most effective way to prevent leaks or flooding while you’re gone. If a pipe bursts or a valve fails, having the water turned off can make the difference between a damp floor and thousands of dollars in water damage. How-to : Locate your home’s main water valve—usually near the water meter or where the main line enters your house. Turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed. 2. Drain and Flush Once the water is off, turn on your faucets and flush your toilets to drain the remaining water in the lines. This is especially important during winter months when pipes can freeze. Bonus Tip : Pour a small amount of plumbing-safe antifreeze into toilets and drains if you expect freezing temperatures. 3. Adjust or Turn Off the Water Heater If you’re gone for more than a few days, your water heater doesn’t need to work full-time. Tank Water Heater : Turn it off or switch it to “Vacation Mode” to conserve energy. Tankless Water Heater : Most units have a vacation setting or can be turned off entirely. 4. Check for Leaks Before You Go Inspect faucets, toilets, and under-sink pipes for any signs of drips or leaks. Even a slow leak can cause damage or spike your water bill over time. Not sure what to look for? TLH Plumbing offers fast, affordable leak inspections in the greater Tennessee area. 5. Clean and Clear Drains Pour a little baking soda and vinegar down your kitchen and bathroom drains to help eliminate odors while you’re gone. Run your garbage disposal with cold water to clear any leftover debris. Don’t forget : Empty the dishwasher and washing machine and leave them slightly open to prevent mold and mildew buildup. 6. Inspect and Secure Outdoor Fixtures Tennessee weather can be unpredictable. Before heading out: Disconnect and drain garden hoses. Check outdoor spigots for leaks. Consider using faucet covers in the winter. 7. Let Someone Know If a trusted neighbor or friend is watching your home, let them know how to reach your plumber in case of emergency. TLH Plumbing provides prompt, local service across Tennessee—and we’re just a call away. TLH Plumbing’s Vacation-Ready Home Checklist: ✔ Shut off main water valve ✔ Drain water lines ✔ Adjust water heater ✔ Check for leaks ✔ Clean drains ✔ Secure outdoor plumbing ✔ Leave emergency contact info Need Help Prepping? TLH Plumbing Is Here for You! Going away soon? Whether you're leaving for a weekend or a month, our licensed plumbing experts can help inspect and prepare your system before you leave. Schedule a quick home visit with TLH Plumbing today and vacation with confidence. Call us at (931) 263-4900 or R equest Service Online
Take Care of Your Water Heater When it comes to feeling comfortable at home, one appliance that really stands out is the water heater. Think about it: whether you're enjoying a hot shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry, we depend on our water heaters every single day. However, if these units aren't installed correctly or if we skip out on regular maintenance, it can lead to problems that not only cost us money but might also pose safety risks. That’s why having your water heater installed and maintained by a professional is so important for both homeowners and businesses. The Importance of Professional Water Heater Installation It can be tempting for homeowners to try and install their water heater on their own or to hire someone who isn’t specialized just to save a few bucks. But trust me—skimping on installation might bring more headaches than you bargained for. Here’s why getting an expert on the job really matters: 1. Safety First Whether you have a gas or electric water heater, getting the installation just right is essential to avoid dangers like gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, and electrical problems. A skilled plumber will take care to make sure all connections, vents, and safety protocols are spot on. 2. Efficiency and Performance A well-installed water heater works like a charm, giving you a steady flow of hot water while keeping your energy bills in check. Professionals know how to set the unit up according to the manufacturer's guidelines and local building standards, ensuring it runs smoothly. 3. Extending Your Appliance’s Lifespan If a water heater isn’t installed correctly, it can be put under unnecessary stress, leading to quicker wear and tear. When you go with a professional for installation, you're actually investing in the longevity of your unit, which can save you a considerable amount of money down the line. 4. Compliance with Local Codes and Warranties Most water heater manufacturers require professional installation to keep warranties valid. Additionally, many local building codes mandate that a licensed plumber perform the installation. Skipping this step could lead to costly violations and voided warranties. The Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance Once your water heater is installed, keeping up with its maintenance is vital to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come. Here’s why you should make routine maintenance a top priority: 1. Prevents Costly Repairs By staying on top of maintenance, you can catch small issues before they turn into major problems that can hit your wallet hard. 2. Improves Energy Efficiency Over time, sediment can build up in your tank, making it work overtime to heat water. Regularly flushing the tank and checking the components can help you save on those energy bills. 3. Extends Lifespan Taking the time to check things like the anode rod and pressure relief valves can help ward off corrosion and extend the life of your water heater. Nobody likes unexpected expenses! 4. Ensures Safe Operation A water heater that isn't functioning properly can lead to serious safety risks like leaks or even explosions. Scheduling regular inspections with a professional gives you peace of mind that your unit is safe to use. Taking a proactive approach to maintaining your water heater isn’t just about keeping it running; it’s about protecting your home and your finances. Signs You Need Water Heater Service Not sure if your water heater needs professional attention? Look out for these warning signs: Inconsistent or insufficient hot water Unusual noises coming from the tank Rusty or discolored water Leaks around the base of the unit A sudden increase in energy bills Trust the Professionals for Water Heater Services If you're considering a new water heater installation or need maintenance for your existing unit, hiring a professional plumber is the best choice. At TLH Plumbing, we specialize in expert water heater installation and maintenance to keep your home or business running efficiently. Contact us today for a consultation or to schedule a service appointment! By investing in professional installation and routine maintenance, you’ll ensure that your water heater provides reliable, efficient, and safe hot water for years to come.
How to Tell if Your Septic Tank Needs Maintenance Your septic tank plays a crucial role in managing your home's wastewater. When it's taken care of, it operates quietly in the background, efficiently handling waste and keeping your living environment safe and sanitary. But just like any other system in your home, your septic tank needs regular upkeep to keep it in top shape. If you let problems slide, you risk facing costly repairs, environmental issues, or even a complete system breakdown. In this blog post, I want to share some of the most common signs that your septic tank needs a little TLC and why it's so important to be proactive about it. 1. Unpleasant Odors Around Your Home If you start noticing a strong, unpleasant smell—think sewage or rotten eggs—around your yard, near the drain field, or even inside your house, that’s your first clue that something’s off with your septic tank. It might be full, overflowing, or have a blockage somewhere in the system. 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