Plumbing Tips & Repairs for Glastonbury Homes

We get a lot of calls about leaky pipes, noisy water heaters and stubborn boilers. Most of the time the problem isn’t a huge disaster – it’s something you can spot early and fix before it costs a fortune. Below are the most common plumbing issues you’ll face with appliances and what you can do right now.

Common Plumbing Problems in Everyday Appliances

Water heater keeps resetting. If you have to press the reset button every few days, the heating element or thermostat is likely failing. Turn off the power, let the tank cool, and check for mineral buildup. A quick flush can clear sediment and restore normal operation.

Boiler makes strange noises. Gurgling or rattling usually means air trapped in the system or a low water level. Bleed the radiators and make sure the pressure gauge reads between 1 and 1.5 bar. If the noise persists, the pump might need a professional cleaning.

Extractor fan humming but not blowing. The motor often gathers dust and grime, which blocks the blades. Remove the fan cover, clean the blades with a damp cloth, and give the motor a quick spin to free any stuck parts. If the fan still struggles, the motor may need replacement.

Oven won’t heat. Electric ovens often fail at the heating element or the thermostat. Test the element with a multimeter; if there’s no continuity, replace it. For gas ovens, a clogged igniter is the usual culprit – a quick clean can bring heat back.

Refrigerator not cooling. A noisy compressor or frost buildup on the coils can cause this. Unplug the fridge, let the ice melt, vacuum the coils, and check the compressor for any obvious signs of damage. A healthy coil and clean condenser can save you from a full‑scale replacement.

When to Call a Pro

DIY fixes work for most minor hiccups, but some signs mean you need a qualified technician. If you notice any of the following, pick up the phone:

• Water leaks that keep growing after you tighten a fitting.
• Persistent bad smells coming from a water heater or boiler.
• Electric appliances that spark or emit a burning odor.
• Any repair that requires you to open a sealed system, such as a gas line or refrigerant circuit.

Our team in Glastonbury has the tools and experience to deal with these tougher jobs safely and efficiently. We’ll diagnose the issue, explain the repair options, and give you a clear price before we start.

In the meantime, keep a simple maintenance routine: flush water heaters annually, wipe down extractor fans, and clean oven coils when they look dusty. A little care now can stop a small annoyance from turning into a costly breakdown.

Got a plumbing question that’s not covered here? Drop us a message – we’re happy to help you figure out the next step, whether it’s a quick DIY fix or a professional service call.