The 5 Most Common Plumbing Emergencies for Summerville Homeowners (and How to Handle Them)

Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. Whether it’s a burst pipe in the middle of the night or a toilet that overflows minutes before guests arrive, Summerville homeowners know the importance of fast, reliable service. And in our warm, humid climate, plumbing problems can escalate quickly, leading to water damage, mold growth, or serious disruptions to your day.

That’s where Kinsmen Service Pros comes in. With decades of local experience and a team of trained professionals on call 24/7, we help Summerville residents resolve plumbing issues quickly and thoroughly.

Here are the top five plumbing emergencies we see most often, what causes them, and how you can stay ahead of the damage.

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1. Burst Pipes

While Summerville doesn’t regularly face harsh winters, we do get the occasional freeze. Older pipes aren’t always built to handle the temperature swings. When the water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, creating pressure that can crack or rupture the pipe.

What causes it:

• Freezing temps during a sudden cold snap
• Aging, corroded, or poorly insulated pipes
• Excessively high water pressure

What to watch for:

• Sudden loss of water pressure
• Unexplained wet spots on floors, walls, or ceilings
• The sound of running water when nothing’s on

What to do:
Shut off your main water valve right away. Open your faucets to relieve pressure, then call Kinsmen’s emergency plumbing team to locate and repair the break.

2. Clogged Drains and Toilets

From slow drains to full-blown backups, clogs are one of the most common calls we get, especially in older Summerville homes where pipes are narrower or worn down.

Common culprits:

• Hair, soap scum, and grease buildup
• Flushing wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products
• Tree roots infiltrating underground lines

How to prevent it:

• Use drain strainers in sinks and tubs
• Never pour grease or oil down the drain
• Only flush toilet paper

When to call in a pro:
If a plunger or drain cleaner doesn’t fix the problem, or if more than one drain is backing up, it’s time to bring in the experts. We’ll inspect the system and clear the blockage safely. Call or contact our Summerville plumbers to schedule emergency help for a clogged drain in Summerville, SC.

Call Now (843) 343-1651

3. Leaky Fixtures and Plumbing Leaks

That slow-dripping faucet might not seem urgent, but over time, it adds up. Water waste and hidden damage can lead to expensive repairs if left unchecked. Some leaks are obvious, while others stay hidden inside walls or under flooring.

Look out for:

• A sudden spike in your water bill
• Damp spots under cabinets
• The sound of dripping or hissing behind walls

Possible causes:

• Worn-out washers or O-rings
• Cracks in copper piping
• Loose fittings or aging plumbing

You can try tightening fixtures or replacing washers, but if the leak persists or you suspect a hidden leak, our team can help. Learn more about our plumbing leak detection services in Summerville, SC.

4. Water Heater Failures

No hot water is a rude awakening. Whether your water heater is leaking, making strange noises, or giving you cold showers, it’s a problem that needs fast attention.

Red flags:

• Water pooling near the base of your unit
• Rumbling or popping noises
• Rusty or discolored water
• Water that’s too hot or not hot enough

Routine maintenance like flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod can help extend the life of your unit. But if your system is over 10 years old or showing signs of damage, it may be time for a replacement. Learn more about our water heater repair and installation services.

5. Sewer Line Backups

This is one of the messiest plumbing emergencies and it’s more common than most homeowners realize. A blockage or collapse in your sewer line can lead to raw sewage backing up into your home.

Warning signs:

• Foul odors from drains or yard
• Multiple fixtures clogging at once
• Gurgling sounds in toilets or sinks
• Water pooling in basement drains

Tree roots, old clay pipes, or ground shifts can all wreak havoc on your sewer line. If you’re noticing any of these issues, don’t wait. We offer sewer line repair and replacement in Summerville, using modern, trenchless methods that minimize disruption to your property.

Why Homeowners in Summerville Trust Kinsmen Service Pros

Plumbing emergencies are stressful, but getting help doesn’t have to be. At Kinsmen, we pride ourselves on fast, friendly, and high-quality service backed by years of local experience. Our technicians are trained, certified, and ready to respond to your call, day or night.

• Available 24/7 for emergency plumbing needs
• Locally owned and operated in Summerville
• Upfront pricing and honest recommendations
• Licensed, insured, and always respectful of your home

Don’t Wait for a Small Problem to Become a Big One

A plumbing emergency doesn’t have to derail your day. Whether it’s a leaking pipe, clogged drain, or a water heater on the fritz, Kinsmen Service Pros is here to help Summerville homeowners get things flowing again.

Book your appointment online or give us a call today to speak with a member of our team. We’re standing by and ready when you need us.

Call Now (843) 343-1651