Colorado Climate Creates Unique Challenges
Colorado's high altitude, extreme temperature swings, and hard water create specific plumbing challenges that homeowners in other states rarely face. Understanding these issues helps you prevent problems and know when professional help is needed.
Colorado Factors:
- • Winter temperatures below 0°F
- • High altitude pressure changes
- • Hard water (40-180 PPM in Denver area)
- • Rapid temperature fluctuations
- • Dry air causing pipe stress
Top 10 Plumbing Problems in Colorado
1. Frozen Pipes (November - March)
When It Happens:
- • Temperatures below 20°F
- • Exposed pipes in unheated areas
- • Pipes against exterior walls
- • After extended cold snaps
Prevention Tips:
- • Let faucets drip during extreme cold
- • Keep cabinet doors open under sinks
- • Insulate exposed pipes
- • Maintain heat in unoccupied areas
DIY vs. Professional:
DIY:
Thaw accessible frozen pipes with hair dryer, space heater, or warm towels
Call Pro:
Pipes in walls, burst pipes, no water flow after thawing attempt
Colorado Tip: Lakewood's altitude can make freezing more likely. Pipes freeze 3-5°F warmer than at sea level.
2. Hard Water Problems
Signs of Hard Water:
- • White mineral buildup on fixtures
- • Reduced water pressure
- • Soap scum that won't clean off
- • Shortened water heater lifespan
- • Stiff laundry
Long-Term Effects:
- • Pipe corrosion and blockages
- • Water heater efficiency loss
- • Expensive fixture replacements
- • Higher utility bills
Solutions:
DIY:
Regular cleaning with CLR, vinegar soaks for faucets, frequent water heater flushing
Professional:
Water softener installation ($1,200-$3,000), whole-house filtration systems
3. Slow or Clogged Drains
Common Causes:
- • Hair buildup (bathroom drains)
- • Grease accumulation (kitchen sinks)
- • Soap scum and mineral deposits
- • Foreign objects
- • Tree root infiltration (main lines)
Warning Signs:
- • Water backing up in multiple drains
- • Gurgling sounds
- • Bad odors from drains
- • Fruit flies around drains
When to Try DIY:
Safe DIY Methods:
- • Plunger (toilets and drains)
- • Baking soda + vinegar
- • Manual removal of visible clogs
- • Drain snake for simple clogs
Avoid:
Chemical drain cleaners (damage pipes), excessive force with snakes
4. Low Water Pressure
Common Causes:
- • Mineral buildup in aerators/showerheads
- • Partially closed main water valve
- • Corroded pipes (older homes)
- • Water meter valve issues
- • Municipal supply problems
Diagnosis Steps:
- Check if problem is house-wide or localized
- Test multiple fixtures
- Check main water valve position
- Ask neighbors about their water pressure
DIY Solutions:
- • Clean aerators and showerheads
- • Check and open main water valve
- • Replace clogged fixtures
Call Professional:
- • House-wide pressure problems
- • Suspected pipe corrosion
- • Pressure regulator issues
- • Municipal line problems
5. Running Toilet
Common Causes:
- • Warped or old flapper
- • Chain too long or short
- • Float adjustment problems
- • Fill valve malfunction
- • Mineral buildup on components
Cost Impact:
- • Can waste 200+ gallons per day
- • $50-$100+ monthly water bill increase
- • Constant running noise
Easy DIY Fixes:
- • Adjust flapper chain length
- • Replace flapper ($5-$10)
- • Adjust float mechanism
- • Clean mineral buildup
Professional Help:
Fill valve replacement, complete toilet rebuild, persistent problems after DIY attempts
Other Common Issues
6. Leaky Faucets
Usually worn O-rings or washers. DIY-friendly with basic tools.
7. Water Heater Problems
No hot water, strange noises, or rusty water. Often requires professional.
8. Garbage Disposal Issues
Jams, leaks, or motor problems. Reset button often solves minor issues.
9. Sump Pump Failure
Critical during spring snowmelt. Test before wet season.
10. Pipe Corrosion
Common in older homes. Discolored water or metallic taste are warning signs.
Prevention & Maintenance
Monthly Tasks:
- • Test all faucets and fixtures
- • Check for leaks under sinks
- • Run water in unused drains
- • Test toilet flush mechanisms
- • Check water heater temperature
Seasonal Tasks:
- • Insulate pipes before winter
- • Disconnect garden hoses (fall)
- • Test sump pump before snowmelt
- • Flush water heater annually
- • Clean aerators and showerheads
Professional Services:
- • Annual plumbing inspection
- • Water quality testing
- • Sewer line camera inspection
- • Water heater maintenance
- • Pipe insulation upgrades
When to Call a Professional Immediately
Safety Issues:
- • Gas smell near water heater
- • Electrical hazards with water
- • Sewage backup
- • Major flooding
- • No water supply to home
Complex Problems:
- • Multiple fixture problems
- • Suspected pipe bursts in walls
- • Water pressure issues house-wide
- • Sewer line blockages
- • Water heater replacement
DIY Safety Guidelines
Before Starting Any DIY:
- • Turn off water supply to the area
- • Know location of main shutoff valve
- • Have proper tools for the job
- • Understand the problem fully
- • Have a backup plan if things go wrong
Know Your Limits:
- • Don't work with gas lines
- • Avoid electrical components when wet
- • Don't force stuck valves or pipes
- • Stop if problem gets worse
- • When in doubt, call a professional