Top 10 Signs You Need a Professional Plumber in Topeka, KS

Every home in Topeka relies on its plumbing system daily — from showers and cooking to cleaning and laundry. When something goes wrong, it’s tempting to try a quick fix, but plumbing issues often run deeper than they appear. Ignoring them can lead to water damage, mold growth, or even structural problems.

At O’Harra’s Plumbing Service, we’ve served Topeka and Northeast Kansas for over 27 years. Our licensed master plumber and team have handled every kind of plumbing issue imaginable — and we’ve seen firsthand how early detection can prevent costly repairs. Below are ten common warning signs that it’s time to call a professional plumber.

1. Persistent Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is one of the most common signs that something’s wrong. If your shower feels weak or your faucets barely trickle, the cause could be more serious than a simple aerator clog. It may point to:

Sediment buildup in your water lines
Leaks or corrosion inside your pipes
Faulty pressure regulators or shutoff valves

Because low pressure can signal hidden leaks, it’s best to have a professional inspect your system. A licensed plumber can perform a pressure test to locate the source and restore steady water flow.

2. Slow or Frequently Clogged Drains

If your sinks or tubs drain slowly or clog repeatedly, it’s often a sign of a deeper blockage. While store-bought drain cleaners might offer temporary relief, they rarely clear the problem completely. Slow drains can be caused by:

Buildup of grease, hair, or soap residue
Root intrusion in underground sewer lines
Collapsed or offset drain pipes

A professional plumber uses specialized drain cameras and hydro-jetting tools to clear the obstruction safely and thoroughly.

3. Gurgling Sounds from Drains or Toilets

Hearing bubbling or gurgling after flushing or draining water is more than just odd — it’s a warning. Air bubbles indicate improper ventilation or a partial blockage in your sewer system. If ignored, this can lead to sewer gas escaping into your home or even a complete backup. A plumber can inspect your vent stacks and main sewer line to prevent a messy, costly problem.

4. Unexplained Increase in Water Bills

A sudden jump in your water bill often means there’s a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing. Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month. If you notice damp spots, the sound of running water when nothing’s on, or unusually high utility costs, it’s time for a leak detection service. Professional plumbers use non-invasive methods such as thermal imaging and pressure testing to locate leaks without tearing into walls unnecessarily.

5. Water Stains or Damp Walls

Water stains, soft drywall, or bubbling paint are signs that a pipe may be leaking inside your walls. Over time, this can lead to mold growth and structural damage. Because leaks often start small and spread slowly, early detection is crucial. O’Harra’s Plumbing uses modern moisture detection tools to trace hidden leaks accurately and perform repairs that last.

6. Constantly Running Toilet

If your toilet runs continuously, it’s wasting both water and money. You might be hearing the sound of water refilling due to:

A worn flapper or flush valve
A faulty fill valve or float
Improper water level adjustment

While these components are inexpensive, ignoring the problem can waste thousands of gallons monthly. Our team can repair or replace your toilet quickly and ensure it operates efficiently.

7. Sewage Odors in the House or Basement

Few plumbing issues are as unpleasant as the smell of sewage. This odor often signals a serious problem such as:

A cracked or collapsed sewer line
A damaged vent pipe
A dry P-trap in an unused drain

Sewer gas exposure isn’t just unpleasant; it’s also a health risk. If you smell sewage inside your home or basement, contact a plumber immediately to locate and repair the source.

8. Discolored or Rusty Water

Brown, yellow, or rusty water coming from your faucets usually means your plumbing or water heater is corroding. If only the hot water appears discolored, the water heater tank is likely rusting from within. If both hot and cold water are affected, the issue could be your supply lines. In either case, replacement is the safest solution.

9. No Hot Water

When your shower suddenly turns cold, your water heater may be failing. Typical causes include:

A broken heating element or thermostat
Excessive sediment buildup
An undersized or aging water heater

If your unit is more than 10 years old or requires frequent repairs, replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model may save you money in the long run.

10. Frequent Repairs or Aging Pipes

If you’re calling a plumber multiple times a year for different leaks or repairs, your home’s plumbing system may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Many older Topeka homes still contain galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes — materials known to corrode, crack, and cause low water quality. A whole-home plumbing inspection can determine if repiping or partial replacement is a better investment for your home’s safety and efficiency.

Why Hire a Local Topeka Plumber

Hiring a local plumber in Topeka ensures faster service and reliable workmanship backed by knowledge of local codes, soil conditions, and water quality. O’Harra’s Plumbing Service has built its reputation on trust, quality, and long-term relationships with homeowners across Northeast Kansas. When you call us, you get a licensed master plumber who stands behind every repair, remodel, or installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Should I use chemical drain cleaners for slow drains?
No. Chemical drain cleaners can corrode pipes and damage fixtures. A professional drain cleaning service is safer, more thorough, and better for your plumbing system.

Q2: How can I check for hidden water leaks at home?
Monitor your water meter when all fixtures are off. If the meter continues to move, you likely have a hidden leak. Calling a professional ensures accurate detection and fast repairs.

Q3: How often should I schedule plumbing maintenance?
Annual maintenance helps identify small problems early, extend the lifespan of your system, and prevent costly emergencies.

Q4: What should I do if I smell sewage in my basement?
Leave the area immediately and call a licensed plumber. Sewer gas can be hazardous and requires professional repair.

Q5: Does O’Harra’s Plumbing handle remodel projects too?
Yes. Our team provides complete plumbing for bathroom remodels, kitchen updates, and full home repiping projects.

Call Topeka’s Trusted Plumbing Experts Today

If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t wait until a small issue turns into a major repair. Contact O’Harra’s Plumbing Service today for professional plumbing diagnostics, repairs, and replacements throughout Topeka and Northeast Kansas.

Call (785) 260-0521 or visit us to schedule your service. We’re available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and always ready to restore comfort and reliability to your home’s plumbing system.

Top 10 Signs You Need a Professional Plumber in Topeka, KS