Common Plumbing Problems in Farnborough Homes
Plumbing issues are a part of homeownership, but in Farnborough—where many properties are a mix of older builds and modern extensions—certain problems appear more frequently than others.
Spotting issues early can prevent expensive repairs, water damage, and unnecessary disruption to your home.
Here are the most common plumbing problems in Farnborough and how to recognise them before they turn into emergencies.
1. Low Water Pressure Throughout the House
Low water pressure is one of the most frequent complaints from homeowners in Farnborough.
Common causes include:
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- Limescale buildup (very common due to hard water in Hampshire)
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- Faulty faucets or shower cartridges
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- Partially blocked pipes
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- Issues with the mains supply
Early warning signs:
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- Slow-running taps
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- Weak shower flow
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- Washing machines taking longer to fill
If pressure drops suddenly, it could indicate a serious leak in the system.
2. Persistent Dripping Taps
A dripping tap may seem harmless, but it can waste thousands of litres of water a year.
Why it happens:
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- Worn-out washers
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- Faulty O-rings
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- Old tap cartridges
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- High water pressure causing seal failures
Early warning signs:
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- A tap that doesn’t fully shut off
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- Intermittent dripping
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- Loose handles or stiff operation
This small problem can usually be fixed quickly and cheaply if caught early.
3. Slow or Gurgling Drains
Slow drainage is extremely common in Farnborough kitchens and bathrooms.
Common causes:
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- Hair, soap scum and fat buildup
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- Blocked external gullies
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- Collapsed or root-damaged outside pipework
Early warning signs:
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- Water pooling in sinks or showers
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- Gurgling noises
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- Bad smells from plugholes
A single slow drain usually means a local blockage.
Slow drainage across multiple fixtures signals a bigger issue, such as a main waste pipe problem.
4. Leaking Pipes and Joints
In older Farnborough homes, pipe joints and copper pipework can wear out over time.
Small leaks can remain hidden for months.
Early warning signs:
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- Damp patches on walls or ceilings
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- Musty smells
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- A boiler losing pressure
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- Dripping noises behind cupboards or under floors
Hidden leaks can lead to major water damage, so acting early is essential.
5. Toilet Won’t Stop Running
A constantly running toilet wastes water and increases your bill.
Common causes:
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- Faulty fill valve
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- Worn flapper seal
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- Sticking push-button mechanism
Early warning sign:
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- You can hear the cistern running long after flushing
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- Occasional overflowing into the bowl
This is a simple fix for a trained plumber and saves money long-term.
6. Boiler Issues & Heating Problems
With so many older heating systems in Farnborough, boiler faults are common—especially in colder months.
Early warning signs:
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- Low boiler pressure
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- Radiators not heating evenly
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- Strange noises (kettling or banging)
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- Intermittent hot water
Boiler problems rarely resolve themselves and often worsen quickly.
7. Smelly or Noisy Pipes
Banging pipes (“water hammer”) and foul smells indicate deeper issues.
Possible causes:
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- Poor pipe securing
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- Blocked vents
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- Trapped air in the system
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- Partial drainage blockages
Warning signs:
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- Loud knocking when turning appliances on/off
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- Smells rising from sinks or drains
These shouldn’t be ignored—they can indicate failing pipework or pressure issues.
When Should You Call a Farnborough Plumber?
You should call a professional if:
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- The issue keeps returning
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- Multiple drains or fixtures are affected
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- Your boiler is losing pressure
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- Damp patches appear anywhere in the home
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- You suspect a hidden leak
Early intervention prevents bigger repairs and keeps your home safe.
Need a Local Farnborough Plumber?
Whether it’s a leak, slow drain, faulty boiler or low water pressure, early diagnosis saves time, money and stress.
A qualified Farnborough plumber can assess the problem quickly and recommend the best fix.