Living in Gilbert means dealing with more than just Arizona heat — it also means managing the unique plumbing challenges that come with hard water, desert soil, and aging infrastructure. At Felix Plumbing, we’ve helped thousands of local homeowners diagnose and resolve plumbing problems quickly, reliably, and affordably.
Below are the top 10 most common residential plumbing issues we encounter in Gilbert homes, along with expert insights on how to fix or prevent them.
1. Hard Water Buildup in Pipes and Fixtures
Gilbert has some of the hardest water in Arizona. The high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium builds up over time inside plumbing systems, especially in older homes. This mineral buildup can clog showerheads, reduce water flow in faucets, and cause premature wear on your water heater and appliances. Hard water also leaves behind stubborn white stains on fixtures and tile, making cleaning more difficult.
Solution: The most effective solution is installing a high-quality water softener system designed for Arizona’s water profile. At Felix Plumbing, we assess your home’s needs and install systems that protect pipes and appliances while improving water taste, pressure, and overall plumbing performance.
2. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
That small drip in your kitchen or bathroom faucet may not seem like a big deal—but over time, it can waste hundreds (even thousands) of gallons of water and increase your utility bill. Leaky faucets are usually caused by worn washers, corroded valve seats, or loose connections—issues that tend to worsen with Gilbert’s mineral-heavy water and desert heat.
Solution: We provide precise faucet repairs using premium replacement parts and ensure all fixtures are sealed correctly. Whether it’s a slow leak or constant drip, we’ll fix it fast to prevent further waste or water damage.
3. Running Toilets
A constantly running toilet is one of the most common service calls we receive in the East Valley. Usually caused by worn-out flappers, misaligned fill valves, or chain problems, a running toilet can silently waste hundreds of gallons of water per day—without homeowners realizing it until they see their water bill.
Solution: Our technicians quickly diagnose the issue and perform same-day toilet repairs using durable, long-lasting components. We also inspect for hidden leaks in the tank or base to ensure your plumbing stays efficient and leak-free.
4. Clogged Kitchen Drains
Gilbert households that frequently cook at home often face repeated kitchen drain clogs. Grease, food particles, soap residue, and even coffee grounds accumulate inside drain pipes, especially in homes without a garbage disposal or proper filtration. These clogs often start as slow drains but can quickly turn into full blockages.
Solution: We offer professional-grade drain cleaning solutions that go beyond store-bought chemicals. Our hydro jetting and snaking services fully remove buildup and restore clear, efficient flow. We also provide maintenance tips to prevent clogs from recurring.
5. Slow Bathroom Drains
Hair, soap scum, and personal care products are the biggest offenders in bathroom drain blockages. Over time, they form thick sludge inside your sink, tub, or shower drain that slows water flow and can lead to foul odors or gurgling noises.
Solution: Felix Plumbing uses specialized drain tools to remove clogs completely without damaging your pipes. We recommend annual drain inspections to keep everything flowing properly, especially in older homes or multi-bathroom households.
6. Slab Leaks
Many Gilbert homes are built on slab foundations, meaning plumbing pipes run underneath concrete floors. If one of those pipes develops a leak, the water has nowhere to go but up through the floor—or into your foundation. Slab leaks can go undetected for weeks, but they can cause structural damage, mold growth, and foundation shifting if left unresolved.
Solution: We use advanced electronic leak detection equipment to identify the exact source of the leak. Depending on severity, we offer minimally invasive solutions such as rerouting, epoxy pipe lining, or trenchless repairs. Our priority is to fix the issue fast with minimal disruption to your home.
7. Low Water Pressure
Weak water flow is a frustrating problem—especially in multi-story homes or households with multiple fixtures. In Gilbert, this is often caused by internal pipe corrosion, pressure regulator failure, or buildup from hard water. If your shower suddenly becomes a trickle or your kitchen sink pressure drops, it’s likely more than just a municipal issue.
Solution: We inspect your system from meter to tap, identifying the root cause of low water pressure. Whether it’s a clogged aerator or aging pipes, we restore your home’s flow so every faucet delivers strong, reliable pressure.
8. Water Heater Issues
Gilbert’s hard water is notoriously harsh on water heaters. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank reduces heating efficiency and creates popping or rumbling noises. Over time, this sediment can damage the tank and heating elements, leading to leaks, temperature inconsistencies, or full unit failure.
Solution: Felix Plumbing provides complete water heater services—including maintenance, repair, and installation. We work on both traditional and tankless models and recommend flushing your water heater at least once per year to extend its lifespan and ensure consistent hot water.
9. Sewer Odors or Backups
Unpleasant smells inside your home often point to issues deep within your sewer system. Cracked pipes, tree root intrusion, or blocked vents can cause gases to leak into your living space. If multiple drains are slow or bubbling, or you smell sulfur-like odors, your main sewer line may be compromised.
Solution: We perform high-definition sewer camera inspections to assess the full condition of your underground plumbing. If repairs are needed, we specialize in trenchless solutions that minimize digging and downtime while restoring your system’s integrity.
10. Aging or Faulty Shut-Off Valves
Your shut-off valves are your first line of defense during a plumbing emergency—but many homeowners don’t realize their valves are corroded or stuck until it’s too late. A failed shut-off can lead to uncontrolled flooding or water damage during an unexpected pipe burst or fixture failure.
Solution: Our team replaces outdated or malfunctioning shut-off valves with modern, corrosion-resistant models that give you complete control during emergencies. We’ll test your system, show you how to operate it, and ensure your home is protected against sudden leaks.
Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Disaster
Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, slow drains, or a hidden slab leak, Felix Plumbing is your trusted local expert. We bring years of experience, same-day service, and 24/7 emergency response to homes across Gilbert and the surrounding East Valley. No job is too small or too complex — and every service call comes with our transparent pricing and quality guarantee.
FAQs About Residential Plumbing in Gilbert
What’s the most common plumbing issue in Arizona homes?
Hard water problems are by far the most frequent issue, especially buildup in pipes, fixtures, and water heaters. This mineral-rich water can damage plumbing and reduce efficiency if left untreated.
Do you offer emergency plumbing services in Gilbert?
Yes, we’re available 24/7 for plumbing emergencies. Whether it’s a burst pipe, no hot water, or a sewer backup, our licensed plumbers are ready to respond anytime—day or night.
Can you help upgrade plumbing fixtures to water-saving models?
Absolutely. We carry and install EPA WaterSense-certified fixtures that meet Arizona’s water conservation standards while maintaining performance and reliability.
How do I know if I have a slab leak?
Look for unusually high water bills, unexplained damp spots on floors, warm areas underfoot, or the sound of running water when everything is turned off. Our advanced leak detection tools allow us to confirm and repair slab leaks with minimal disruption.
Call To Action
Experiencing plumbing issues in your Gilbert home?
Don’t wait until they turn into major damage. Contact Felix Plumbing today for a free inspection and fast, reliable residential plumbing service backed by years of trusted East Valley experience.
📞 Call 602-535-6172 or [Schedule Your Service Online].
