Top 5 Plumbing Issues We See in Lubbock, TX (And How to Prevent Them)
Whether you’ve lived in Lubbock, Texas your whole life or just moved here, one thing’s for sure: our unique climate and soil conditions can lead to some very specific plumbing problems.
At Cotton City Plumbing, we’ve served hundreds of homes and businesses across Lubbock and surrounding areas—and we’ve noticed some common patterns. Here are the top 5 plumbing issues we see in Lubbock, plus tips to help you avoid costly repairs.
1. Hard Water Buildup
The problem:
Lubbock has hard water, which means it’s full of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals build up inside your pipes, fixtures, and appliances—leading to:
Reduced water pressure
Clogged faucets and showerheads
Premature water heater failure
How to prevent it:
Install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup. It’ll extend the life of your plumbing and improve water quality for your skin, dishes, and laundry.
2. Frozen Pipes in Winter
The problem:
Lubbock winters might not be brutal, but sudden cold snaps are common—and unprotected pipes can freeze and burst overnight. This leads to serious water damage, often in attics or exterior walls.
How to prevent it:
Insulate exposed pipes (especially in garages, attics, and crawl spaces)
Let faucets drip on freezing nights
Know how to shut off your main water line in an emergency
3. Clogged Drains (Especially in Older Homes)
The problem:
Many older homes in Lubbock have aging pipes that are more prone to slow drains, backups, and clogs, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Common causes:
Grease and food in the kitchen sink
Hair and soap scum in showers
“Flushable” wipes that don’t break down properly
How to prevent it:
Use drain screens
Avoid dumping grease or non-dissolvables down drains
Have your drains professionally cleaned every 1–2 years
4. Slab Leaks
The problem:
Many Lubbock homes are built on concrete slabs. Over time, shifting clay soil can crack the slab or the pipes beneath it—causing hidden leaks under your floors.
Signs of a slab leak:
Warm spots on the floor
Unexplained water bills
Mold or damp smells indoors
Cracks in walls or flooring
What to do:
Call a professional plumber immediately. We use leak detection equipment to pinpoint the issue without tearing up your whole floor.
5. Running or Leaking Toilets
The problem:
A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day—and in Lubbock, where water conservation matters, that’s a big deal.
Causes include:
Worn flapper valves
Faulty fill valves
Loose handles or chains
How to fix it:
Most toilet issues are simple DIY fixes, but if it keeps happening or your water bill spikes, have a plumber inspect the entire system.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing problems can strike at any time—but knowing the most common issues in Lubbock can help you catch them early and avoid damage.
At Cotton City Plumbing, we’re proud to be Lubbock locals, and we know exactly how to deal with the area’s unique plumbing challenges. Whether you need a quick fix or a full repipe, we’re here to help. Contact us today and let Cotton City help you with any plumbing needs you may have!