3 Common Causes of Standing Water 

1. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common causes of standing water. Over time, things like hair, soap scum, grease, and food particles can build up in your pipes. This buildup slows the water flow and can eventually completely block your drain. When that happens, water has nowhere to go, so it backs up and creates standing water. For example, a clogged kitchen sink can cause dirty water to sit until the blockage is cleared. Similarly, a blocked shower drain can leave you standing in ankle-deep water every time you bathe.

How to Fix It:

A plumber can help clear stubborn clogs that basic tools like a plunger or drain snake can’t handle. Regular maintenance from a plumbing service can help you avoid these problems in the future.

2. Poor Drainage Around Your Home

Sometimes, the issue isn’t inside your house but outside it. Poor drainage around your home can lead to standing water in your yard, basement, or crawl spaces. This often happens when the ground around your house doesn’t slope away from the foundation. Instead of water flowing away, it pools near your home, increasing the risk of leaks and damage. Gutters and downspouts can also play a role here. Rainwater won't flow through them if they’re clogged with leaves or debris. Instead, it spills over the sides and collects near your home.

How to Fix It:

Start by cleaning your gutters and ensuring your downspouts direct water at least a few feet from your house. You might also need to regrade your yard so water flows in the right direction. 

3. Broken or Leaking Pipes

A broken or leaking pipe can cause standing water inside or outside your home. Pipes can crack, burst, or develop small leaks for many reasons, including freezing temperatures, old age, or too much pressure. You might not notice the leak initially, but the water can collect over time and cause visible problems. Inside your home, you might see standing water under sinks, near appliances like dishwashers or washing machines, or even in unexpected places like your ceilings or walls. Outdoors, a leaky underground pipe can create wet, soggy areas in your yard or driveway.

How to Fix It:

If you suspect a leak, don't wait a second before calling a professional plumber. He/she can quickly identify and repair its source before further deterioration. A plumbing repair service offers comprehensive support, from minor leak repairs to significant pipe replacement projects, to keep your plumbing system functioning as intended.

How to Prevent Standing Water Problems Now that we’ve covered the causes let’s talk about prevention. Here are a few simple tips:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule a plumbing service to inspect your pipes, drains, and fixtures once a year. 
• Be Careful About What Goes Down Your Drains: Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps into your kitchen sink. In the bathroom, use drain covers to catch hair and other debris.
• Watch for Warning Signs: Slow drains, strange gurgling noises, or unexplained water puddles are all signs you might need a plumbing repair service.

When to Call for Help

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, standing water keeps showing up. That’s when it’s time to call in the experts. A licensed plumber has the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the problem, whether a stubborn clog, a broken pipe, or something else entirely. If you’re dealing with standing water and aren’t sure where it’s coming from, don’t hesitate to contact a plumbing service. They’ll remove the guesswork from the equation and get your plumbing back in working order. Whether it’s a simple drain cleaning or a more complex plumbing repair service, professional help can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Standing water is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a sign that something isn’t right. If you ever find yourself over your head, remember that Mr. Rooter Plumbing is just a call away.