Winnetka, IL Plumbing Repair

woman cleaning floor because of a leaky pipe

Few things can turn your life upside down quicker than a plumbing emergency in your Winnetka, IL home. Whether it’s a burst pipe or a sewer backup, plumbing issues can quickly lead to extensive damage and expensive repair or replacement bills.

Fortunately, you have a friend in the plumbing business – Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric. We’ve proudly provided the residents of Chicago’s North Shore and Chicago’s Northwest suburbs with high-quality plumbing repair services for nearly 100 years. No matter what plumbing repair issue you’re facing, contact Ravinia Plumbing to fix it.

Common Plumbing Issues in Winnetka, IL

Over time, your plumbing system may experience issues that require repair service. Some of the most common repair issues we solve include:

Running Toilets

If your toilet is continuously running, consider repairing it as soon as possible. A running toilet can leak as much as eight gallons of water per hour, which can significantly increase your monthly water bills.

Leaking Faucets

A leaky faucet isn’t just annoying; it’s extremely expensive! A faucet that drips once per second can waste up to 420 gallons of water per year. Lower your water bills – and keep your sanity – by having your leaky faucet repaired.

Low Water Pressure

Few things are worse than taking a shower with low water pressure. Low water pressure can also make cleaning and washing dishes more difficult. Clogged pipes, leaky pipes, broken fixtures, and water valve issues can all cause low water pressure. Contact a licensed plumber to find the root of the problem and make the appropriate repair.

Slow or Clogged Drains

Over time, your drains can become slow or completely clogged due to a buildup of hair and soap scum. Without treatment, clogs worsen over time, leading to flooding, damage to your plumbing system and unpleasant stagnant water. Ravinia Plumbing can easily remove plumbing clogs without using harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes.

Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes can cause far more damage to your home than a leaky faucet, especially if the leak is hidden between the walls or crawl space and goes unnoticed for some time. If you notice visible water damage or your water bills have risen significantly, contact a licensed plumber to inspect for a leaky pipe.

Water Heater Issues

If your water heater suddenly stops working, several issues could be at play. Contact a plumber to inspect the unit and repair it.

The licensed plumbers at Ravinia Plumbing also repair gas lines, garbage disposals, backflow valves, and more.

Signs of a Plumbing Emergency

Some plumbing issues are more serious than just a dripping faucet or running toilet, and you should call for emergency plumbing service immediately. Some common emergency plumbing issues include:

  • Burst Pipes. Because winters in Winnetka, IL are so cold, it can cause pipes to freeze and burst if they’re not adequately insulated and are exposed to freezing temperatures. Pipes that are old and corroded can also break apart and burst. If you have a burst pipe, turn off your water supply and call for help.
  • Sewer Backups. A sewer backup is an extremely serious situation, and it can lead to a messy and expensive repair, not to mention health issues.
  • Overflowing Toilets. Toilets can overflow if the wrong items such as bandages, disposable diapers, dental floss, and personal hygiene items are flushed. If you can’t stop the toilet from overflowing, turn off the toilet shut-off next to the toilet or contact a licensed plumber.
  • Gas Line Leak. If you suspect a gas line leak, leave your home immediately and contact the utility or call 911. Once the leak has stopped, a licensed plumber can come and repair the system.
  • Sump Pump Failure. If your home has a basement or crawl space, then you need a properly functioning sump pump to remove excess water from your home from normal groundwater or heavy rainfall. If your sump pump isn’t working properly or breaks down altogether, a plumber can help you determine whether to repair or replace the unit.

Plumbing Repair FAQs

What is the most common plumbing repair?

The most common plumbing repair is fixing a leaky faucet or pipe. Over time, wear and tear on washers, seals, and connections can lead to drips or full-on leaks that waste water and increase utility bills. While these issues may seem minor, they can lead to significant damage if left unaddressed, such as mold growth or structural damage. Other frequent plumbing repairs include unclogging drains, repairing running toilets, and fixing water heater malfunctions. These problems often arise due to age, improper use, or a lack of maintenance, making regular inspections and prompt repairs essential.

Plumbing repair costs can vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the issue. Minor repairs, such as fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain, are typically very affordable. More complex issues, like repairing a burst pipe, can cost hundreds of dollars or more. Factors that influence cost include the type of plumbing material, the urgency of the repair, and whether special equipment or expertise is required. For instance, emergency services or repairs during weekends and holidays often come with higher fees. It’s always wise to get a detailed estimate from a licensed plumber before proceeding.

Plumbing labor rates can vary depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the job. Some plumbers may charge a flat rate for specific services, such as unclogging a drain or repairing a water heater. Additionally, emergency calls or after-hours repairs often incur higher labor costs, sometimes as much as double the standard rate. Homeowners should ask for a clear breakdown of labor charges upfront to avoid surprises and ensure they’re getting a fair price for the work.

While handymen can handle general home maintenance tasks, plumbing systems are complex and require specialized training, tools, and certifications to repair properly. Even minor plumbing issues, such as leaky faucets or clogged drains, can escalate into more significant problems if not addressed correctly. In many areas, major plumbing repairs must be completed by a licensed plumber to meet building codes and avoid voiding homeowners insurance policies. For the safety and integrity of your home, always hire a licensed plumber for any plumbing repairs.

A plumbing problem refers to any issue affecting the water supply, drainage, or fixtures in a home or building. Common examples include leaky faucets, clogged drains, running toilets, low water pressure, burst pipes, and malfunctioning water heaters. More severe plumbing problems can involve sewer line backups, slab leaks, or faulty water mains. Plumbing issues require prompt attention to prevent water damage, health hazards, and higher repair costs. If you’re unsure whether something qualifies as a plumbing problem, it’s best to consult a professional plumber for an assessment.

Responsibility for paying for plumbing issues typically depends on the cause and location of the problem. Homeowners are generally responsible for plumbing repairs within their property lines, including fixtures, pipes, and water heaters inside the home. If a plumbing issue originates from a shared system, such as in a condominium, costs may be split among the property owners or covered by the homeowners’ association. Reviewing the terms of insurance policies and maintenance agreements can clarify responsibilities.

Homeowners insurance typically covers repiping a house only if the need for repiping is due to sudden and accidental damage, such as a burst pipe caused by freezing temperatures. However, most policies exclude coverage for gradual wear and tear, corrosion, or age-related issues, meaning homeowners are often responsible for repiping costs under these circumstances. Review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and consider additional coverage if needed. If repiping becomes necessary, obtaining documentation from a licensed plumber about the cause of the issue can be helpful when filing a claim.

Contact Ravinia Plumbing for Plumbing Repair Service in Winnetka, IL

Dealing with a plumbing emergency is never fun. It’s important to prepare for the worst by knowing a reputable plumbing company such as Ravinia Plumbing to call to resolve plumbing issues. We proudly provide the residents and business owners in Winnetka, IL with top-notch plumbing maintenance, repair and installation services. Contact us today to schedule service.