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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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.
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When you start seeing wastewater rise to the surface, it could mean that your tank is either overloaded, leaking, or just not working right. This is concerning, not just because it can mess up your yard, but it can also lead to groundwater contamination, which can affect both your family’s health and the environment. 4. Gurgling Sounds in Drains or Toilets Have you ever noticed gurgling or bubbling noises coming from your drains or toilets? If so, this could mean that your septic tank is either backed up or facing a blockage. These sounds arise when air bubbles get trapped in the plumbing, often due to a clog or a full septic tank. It’s a pretty clear signal that something's off with your septic system, and it’s best to tackle it right away to prevent any further headaches. 5. Sewage Backup in Your Home Experiencing sewage backup in your home is definitely one of the most alarming and unsanitary indicators that your septic tank needs some serious attention. If you start to see wastewater backing up into your sinks, toilets, or tubs, it’s a huge sign that your septic tank is either full or not working as it should. This is an urgent situation that demands immediate action from a professional. Ignoring it could lead to major health risks and quite a hefty cleanup and repair bill. 6. Lush, Green Grass Over the Septic Tank Area While a beautiful, green lawn might generally seem appealing, if you notice that the grass over your septic tank or drain field is overly lush, it could indicate underlying issues. This usually happens because wastewater is leaking out and giving the soil an extra boost of nutrients, allowing the vegetation to flourish in that spot. So, while it might look lovely, it’s actually a warning sign that your septic tank isn’t functioning correctly and needs some care. 7. Regular Septic Tank Pumping It's generally a good idea to have your septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on how big it is and how many people live in your home. But if you find yourself having to pump it more often, that might be a red flag. It could mean your tank is a bit too small for your family, or there might be something else going on that's preventing it from doing its job properly. Why Keeping Up with Septic Tank Maintenance Matters Staying on top of your septic tank maintenance can really help avoid many of these issues. By booking regular inspections and pumping, you’re helping your system run smoothly, which can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the line. Plus, maintaining your septic system is great for the environment. Just think—untreated wastewater can seep into the soil and groundwater, posing serious health risks for everyone. So, let’s make sure your septic system is in tip-top shape! 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Check for Leaks : Look around the base of the toilet for signs of leaks or water damage. A leaky toilet can cause water damage to your floor, and that’s the last thing you want to deal with during the holidays. Plunger Ready : Keep a plunger in easy reach in each bathroom just in case. You don’t want to be scrambling for a plunger when the inevitable happens. 4. Unclog the Garbage Disposal The kitchen garbage disposal works hard during holiday cooking, so it’s important to give it some attention before you begin preparing your big meals. Check for Obstructions : If your disposal is making strange noises or not grinding food efficiently, it may be clogged. You can often clear minor blockages by using the disposal’s reset button or using tongs to remove large objects. Clean the Disposal : A stinky garbage disposal can sour the holiday mood. To freshen it up, run cold water through the disposal and then add some ice cubes. You can also use a little bit of baking soda and vinegar to clean and deodorize. Be Mindful of What Goes Down : As you prepare meals, remind guests (or yourself) not to put fibrous vegetables, bones, grease, or large amounts of food scraps down the garbage disposal. 5. Prepare for Extra Laundry Loads If you’re having overnight guests, that often means more laundry. Ensure your washing machine and dryer are ready for the extra load of towels, bedding, and clothes that may pile up during your holiday festivities. Check for Leaks : Inspect the hoses connected to your washing machine for any signs of wear or leaks. A burst hose could flood your laundry room, so replacing old hoses with newer, more durable versions can save you a lot of headaches. Lint Traps : Clean out the lint traps in your dryer to prevent potential fire hazards. Consider having your dryer vent cleaned as well to ensure proper airflow and efficiency. 6. Have Emergency Plumbing Supplies on Hand It's always wise to be prepared for plumbing issues that may pop up unexpectedly during a holiday gathering. Having the right tools and supplies on hand can help you tackle minor problems before they become major headaches. Plunger : Keep a plunger in the bathroom, especially near the toilet. Drain Snake : A small hand-held drain snake can help clear minor clogs. Cleaning Supplies : Stock up on drain cleaners, but use them sparingly—natural options like baking soda and vinegar are often gentler on your pipes. Towels and Rags : Have plenty of towels or old rags available to clean up small leaks or spills. Preparing your house and plumbing for holiday entertaining takes a little effort up front, but it can save you from stress and mishaps when your home is full of guests. By inspecting your plumbing, addressing potential issues before they escalate, and keeping your plumbing systems clean and in working order, you can focus on what really matters during the holidays—making memories with loved ones. If you want to book an inspection or general service with us to prepare for the holidays ahead, please call us at (615) 708-5742!
