Not all spooky sounds and smells in your home come from ghosts. Some of the scariest surprises homeowners in Portland, Troutdale, and Gresham face are hidden plumbing problems that stay out of sight—until they turn into costly disasters. This Halloween, let’s uncover three “haunting” plumbing issues that can sneak up on you and how Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing can protect your home.

Problem #1: The Phantom Leak
What It Looks Like
- Rising water bills without explanation
- Damp spots under sinks or around appliances
- Musty smells in basements or crawl spaces
Why It’s Scary
Phantom leaks don’t always make noise or leave puddles. Instead, they quietly rot wood, invite mold, and waste hundreds of gallons of water. If ignored, these leaks can lead to full-blown water line issues.

Problem #2: The Creeping Sewer Smell
What It Looks Like
- Foul odors rising from basement drains
- Gurgling sounds when flushing toilets or running sinks
- Slow drainage in multiple fixtures
Why It’s Scary
That eerie odor may not be a Halloween trick—it could signal a cracked or clogged sewer line. Left unchecked, it can escalate into sewage backup, requiring urgent emergency plumbing.

Problem #3: The Haunted Water Heater
What It Looks Like
- Popping or rumbling noises from your tank
- Rust-colored water coming from hot taps
- Inconsistent hot water during showers
Why It’s Scary
A failing water heater is more than inconvenient—it’s a hazard waiting to happen. Sediment buildup can cause overheating, and older tanks are prone to sudden leaks. If your unit is more than a decade old, it might be time for water heater replacement.

Why Hidden Plumbing Problems Peak in Fall
- Holiday Stress: More guests and cooking put extra strain on pipes and disposals.
- Colder Temperatures: Freezing conditions increase the risk of pipe bursts.
- Heavy Rains: Seasonal storms in the Portland area add pressure to aging sewer systems.
Catching these issues now means fewer emergencies during the holidays.

How Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing Helps
With over 100 5-star reviews, we’re the #1 trusted plumbing service in the Greater Portland area. Our expert team uses advanced tools to uncover hidden problems before they become disasters:
- Camera inspections for sewer and drain lines
- Pressure testing to spot leaks in water lines
- Full plumbing inspections tailored to fall and winter needs
And with seasonal plumbing service coupons, protecting your home doesn’t have to break the bank.

Final Thoughts
Hidden plumbing problems may be scarier than Halloween ghosts—but you don’t have to face them alone. This October 31, give yourself peace of mind by calling Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing for a professional inspection. We’ll make sure your home stays safe, efficient, and free from haunting surprises all season long.
