Plumbing Repairs That Can Cost You Thousands And How to Prevent Them

Not all plumbing problems are created equal. A dripping faucet may be annoying, but it’s rarely the issue that drains your savings. Homeowners in Murrieta, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, and surrounding areas face far more serious and expensive plumbing emergencies every year. Some of these problems can cost tens of thousands to fix, but many are preventable with the right maintenance and awareness.

Below are the most expensive plumbing disasters we’ve seen at Canyon Hills Plumbing and how you can avoid them.

1. Sewer Line Replacement

When a sewer line fails, it’s often more than just inconvenient it’s messy, expensive, and disruptive. These underground pipes are essential for carrying waste from your home to the city sewer system. Damage can occur due to:

• Tree root intrusion (common in older neighborhoods with large trees)
• Soil shifting or settling
• Corrosion in older cast iron or clay pipes
• Chemical drain cleaners that erode the interior of the line

Once a sewer line collapses or clogs beyond repair, you’re looking at excavation, permits, pipe replacement, and sometimes even trenchless repair or pipe bursting, none of which are cheap.  Learn more about our sewer line repair and trenchless replacement services, or see how trenchless relining can save time and money.

Prevention:

• Routine camera inspections help catch issues before they escalate
• Hydrojetting clears out buildup and grease
• Avoid flushing wipes, grease, or harsh chemicals
• Install root barrier systems if trees are a known issue

2. Water Heater Rupture

Water heater failures often go unnoticed until it’s too late. A leaking or ruptured tank can flood entire rooms, especially if your water heater is located in an attic, garage, or hallway closet.

Here’s the real problem: the damage isn’t limited to the appliance. You might be looking at ruined drywall, flooring, insulation, baseboards, cabinets, and personal belongings. Mold growth is also a risk if the water sits too long.

For service, repair, or full replacement, check out our Water Heater Repair, Service & Installation page. Considering a tankless upgrade? We also specialize in Tankless Water Heater Service and Installation.

Prevention:

• Install a leak detection alarm with an automatic shut-off valve
• Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup
• Replace the anode rod every few years to extend the life of the tank
• Replace your heater proactively if it’s 8–12 years old

3. Burst Pipes (Not From Freezing)

While freezing isn’t a major concern in SoCal, burst pipes still happen often due to aging materials, poor installation, or shifting foundations. High water pressure, corrosion, and improperly secured pipes can all lead to unexpected ruptures.

A burst pipe inside a wall, ceiling, or floor can cause extensive flooding, leading to drywall repairs, mold remediation, and flooring replacement. This kind of hidden damage is also frequently connected to larger issues like slab leaks.

Prevention:

• Check your water pressure (ideal range is 40–60 PSI)
• Install a pressure-reducing valve if needed
• Schedule annual inspections for older homes
• Use smart shut-off valves that detect sudden flow changes and shut water off automatically

4. Sewer Backups

A backed-up sewer line is a nightmare. You might notice slow drains at first, but it can quickly turn into sewage backing up into your showers, tubs, and toilets. This isn’t just gross, it’s a health hazard.

Sewer backups can happen due to grease buildup, root intrusion, bellied pipes, or improperly flushed materials. To help identify warning signs early, read our Top Warning Signs of a Sewer Backup. If you’re due for maintenance, our Hydro Jetting Services can restore flow and clean out buildup.

Signs to Watch For:

• Gurgling noises from drains
• Foul odors from sinks or showers
• Water backing up in a different drain when you flush

Prevention:

• Schedule preventive hydrojetting to clear blockages
• Never flush wipes, even those labeled “flushable”
• Use enzyme-based drain treatments instead of chemical cleaners
• Get regular camera inspections to check pipe condition

5. Main Water Line Replacement

The main water line delivers fresh water from the meter to your home. If it cracks or bursts underground, you could be dealing with massive water loss, high bills, and even foundation issues due to erosion.

Leaks can be caused by:

• Aging pipes made of outdated materials like polybutylene
• Tree root intrusion
• Corrosion from poor water quality
• Seismic or soil movement

Prevention:

• Keep an eye on your water meter: if it’s spinning when everything’s off, you might have a leak
• Use copper or PEX piping for replacements (avoid polybutylene)
• Get an inspection if you notice low water pressure or discolored water
• Consider replacing the entire line if it’s older or showing signs of failure

Learn more about our Sewer and Water Line Services and how we handle replacements with minimal disruption.

6. DIY Plumbing Disasters

Everyone loves saving money with DIY projects until something goes wrong. We’ve seen everything from mismatched fittings and reversed water lines to sloped drain lines that cause recurring backups.

The most expensive DIY fails usually involve:

• Hidden leaks behind walls
• Incorrect slope in drain lines
• Cross-threaded fittings that fail over time
• Makeshift “fixes” that ignore code requirements

Prevention:

• Call a licensed plumber for any major repair or installation
• Use professional-grade parts and tools (not cheap knock-offs)
• Have questionable past repairs inspected before remodeling

Don’t let small fixes turn into big repairs. If you’re unsure, start with a call to the pros at Canyon Hills Plumbing.

7. Gas Line Repairs

Gas line leaks are extremely dangerous and expensive if handled incorrectly. Whether you’re adding a gas appliance or dealing with an emergency leak, the risks include fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the home immediately and call your gas company. Once the emergency has been handled and the gas has been shut off, call Canyon Hills Plumbing for professional gas line repair, leak detection, and pressure testing.

Warning Signs:

• Rotten egg smell near appliances
• Hissing sounds
• Unexplained dizziness or headaches

Prevention:

• Don’t try to repair gas lines yourself. This requires a licensed pro
• Schedule routine inspections for older homes or gas-powered appliances
• If you suspect a leak, shut off the gas at the meter and call Canyon Hills Plumbing immediately

8. Slab Leaks (The Big One)

Slab leaks are by far the most expensive plumbing disaster we see. These happen when a water or sewer line beneath your home’s concrete foundation springs a leak.

You may not notice the problem until you see:

• Soaked flooring or damp carpet
• Warm spots on the floor
• High water bills with no visible leaks
• Cracks in walls or flooring

The Damage:

Fixing a slab leak often involves demolition, tunneling, pipe rerouting, foundation patching, and reconstruction of floors and walls. In extreme cases, it can also compromise your home’s structural integrity.

Learn how to protect your home from costly slab leaks in Southern California, and if you’re already dealing with signs of trouble, visit our Slab Leak Detection & Repair page to schedule professional help.

Prevention:

• Watch your water meter and monthly usage
• Install a leak detection system for early warnings
• Use quality piping materials (like PEX or copper) during new builds or remodels
• Schedule a pressure test if you suspect a leak

Don’t Let These Plumbing Issues Drain Your Wallet

Most homeowners don’t think about their plumbing until it’s too late, but a little awareness goes a long way. At Canyon Hills Plumbing, we help homeowners prevent the worst with proactive inspections, high-quality repairs, and honest guidance.

If you’re not sure about the health of your home’s plumbing system, call us today. We’re here to help protect your home and your wallet.