The Most Common Plumbing Issues – and How Total Energy Services Can Help
01/07/2026
Plumbing problems have a habit of appearing at the most inconvenient time — a leaking tap before the school run, a blocked drain when guests are coming, or a broken toilet right before the weekend. As a family-run heating and plumbing company based in Blandford, Dorset, we’ve seen it all. Our fully qualified, insured, DBS-checked engineers are here to help keep homes across Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Somerset running smoothly.
The Most Common Plumbing Issues – and How Total Energy Services Can Help
Below, we break down the most common plumbing issues we’re called out to — and how our team can sort them quickly and professionally.
1. Dripping Taps
A dripping tap may seem minor, but over time it wastes water, increases your bill, and can cause limescale build-up.
Common causes include:
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Worn washers or O-rings
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High water pressure
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Corroded valve seats
How we help:
Our engineers diagnose the root cause, replace any worn components, and ensure your tap is left running efficiently. We work with all tap styles — from traditional pillar taps to modern mixer systems.
2. Blocked Drains
Slow drainage, gurgling sounds or unpleasant smells are the first signs of a blockage.
Typical reasons:
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Fat, oil and food in kitchen pipes
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Hair and soap scum in bathroom drains
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Collapsed or damaged external pipework
How we help:
Using professional-grade equipment, we can clear internal and external drains, carry out CCTV drain inspections if needed, and advise on prevention so the issue doesn’t return.
3. Leaking Pipes
A small leak can quickly escalate into damp, mould, or structural damage if left untreated.
Signs you may have a leak:
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Water stains on walls or ceilings
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Reduced water pressure
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Unexpectedly high water bills
How we help:
Our team locates leaks fast — even the hidden ones — and repairs or replaces damaged pipework with minimal disruption to your home.
4. Toilet Problems
From constant running to flushing issues, toilet faults can be frustrating and unhygienic.
Common issues:
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Faulty fill valves
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Worn flush mechanisms
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Blockages in the toilet or soil pipe
How we help:
We repair or replace faulty components and resolve stubborn blockages. If your toilet system is outdated, we can also install a modern, water-efficient replacement.
5. Low Water Pressure
Struggling to get a decent shower? Low pressure can make everyday tasks difficult.
Reasons include:
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Limescale build-up
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Faulty pressure regulators
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Leaks in the system
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Issues with your boiler or hot water cylinder
How we help:
We test your system, find the cause, and restore the pressure — whether that’s cleaning pipework, replacing parts, or servicing your boiler.
6. Burst Pipes
Common in winter or older properties, burst pipes can cause major flooding quickly.
How we help:
We provide emergency call-outs, isolate the leak, carry out repairs, and help get your home back to normal. We also advise on insulation and preventative measures.
7. Hot Water Problems
Whether your water is lukewarm, inconsistent or has stopped entirely, it’s often linked to your boiler, cylinder or immersion heater.
How we help:
As Gas Safe and OFTEC registered engineers, we’re trained to diagnose and repair both gas and oil systems. From faulty thermostats to worn pumps and valves, we get your hot water flowing again.
Why Choose Total Energy Services?
✔ Family-run, trusted local team
✔ Based in Blandford and covering Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire & Somerset
✔ All engineers are fully qualified, insured & DBS checked
✔ Gas Safe, OFTEC, MCS and RECC registered
✔ Which? Trusted Traders
✔ Transparent pricing with no hidden surprises
Whatever plumbing issue you’re facing — big or small — Total Energy Services is here to help keep your home safe, comfortable and running smoothly.
Need a Plumber? Contact Us Today
Whether it’s a dripping tap or a plumbing emergency, our friendly team is just a phone call away.
📞 01258 472132
🌐 totalenergy.co.uk
📍 Based in Blandford, serving: Poole, Bournemouth, Dorchester, Weymouth, Gillingham, Salisbury, Andover, Yeovil, Sherborne and more.
