There’s no denying that plumbing is an essential component of any home. To ensure your family’s comfort, health, and safety, a well-functioning plumbing system is a must.
However, nothing lasts forever; the same can be said with our once-perfect plumbing system. Its deterioration can lead to many problems, which, when neglected, can rack up a cost. Hence, homeowners must identify and address the plumbing problems early on before it’s too late.
But how will you know what constitutes a plumbing problem? Read on to find out the common plumbing red flags in a home.
Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes are dangerous both for your home and your health. Aside from water and structural damage, constant leaks can lead to mold growth that can cause illnesses to you and your family. This common plumbing issue is typically caused by corroded pipes, high water pressure, or shifting in your home’s foundation. Sometimes it may be caused by the wrong filter so by choosing the right filter, like a hydraulic filter, you may overcome this problem.
If you notice leaking from your pipes, address it before it worsens. The constant flow from the leak can eat away at your pipes, no matter how big or small. If this isn’t addressed, the constant pressure can push it to a breaking point, causing a rapture.
This is considered a plumbing emergency, requiring you to call professionals for aid. So, if you find yourself in this situation, seek the reliable emergency plumber service Ritz Plumbing offers.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be annoying, making simple tasks like showering or washing dishes challenging. Unfortunately, it’s a common plumbing problem caused by several factors. Clogged or leaking pipes, water main issues, or a problem with the water pressure regulator are just some of the reasons why it may suddenly run low.
If you notice a sudden decrease in water pressure, look for the cause immediately. Check the water pressure in different areas of your home. Why? It’s to see if the problem is localized or widespread.
If the problem is localized, it’s possible a clogged pipe or a problem with the water pressure regulator might be the culprit. But if the issue is a widespread problem, don’t hesitate to contact your local water authority to have your water main inspected.
Dripping Faucets
Dripping faucets are not only annoying but also wasteful and expensive. Many may think it’s not much, but a faucet dripping once per second can accumulate 3,000 gallons of water wasted yearly. Not only is this environmentally harmful, but it can also rack up quite the water bill. Worn-out washers are typically the cause of why your faucets are dripping.
A dripping faucet requires immediate attention to save water and money. This common plumbing issue also causes damage to your sink or countertop over time. Neglecting it for a long time only spells more water and money wasted for you.
Running Toilets
Aside from dripping faucets, a running toilet can waste a significant amount of water. It can easily waste 200 gallons daily, adding hundreds of dollars to your water bill. If left unattended, a running toilet can cause the deterioration of your bathroom floor.
Address the problem early on to avoid spending more on repairs that could’ve been avoided.
Slow Drains
A clogged drain, a problem with the sewer line, or a problem with the vent stack can cause a slow drain. This common plumbing issue is frustrating and can cause backups and flooding if left untreated. Address it immediately to avoid damaging your floors and furniture.
Bad Odors
Bad odors from your plumbing system can indicate a more significant problem, such as a sewer backup or a broken vent pipe. While mostly considered a nuisance, this plumbing issue can lead to health problems for you and your family.
Fixing bad odor from your plumbing may involve the following:
- Cleaning out your sewer line.
- Repairing or replacing a broken vent pipe.
- Installing a new drain trap.
Discolored Water
No one wants to see the water from their faucets in color brown or yellow, and there’s no denying that discolored water can freak you out. Discolored water may be due to rust or sediment buildup in your pipes. It can also signify a major plumbing problem, such as a broken water main or a water supply issue.
If you notice discolored water coming from your faucets, check in with your local water authority to see possible issues with your water supply. If it wasn’t the problem, it might likely be caused by rust or sediment buildup.
Final Thoughts
Identifying red flags early can help homeowners avoid more significant plumbing issues and save money on repairs. Some of these issues are easy to fix by yourself. However, if you’re not adept with DIY plumbing fixes, it’s best to leave the repair to the professionals.
To avoid these issues from occurring in the first place, remember to schedule regular maintenance and inspections for your plumbing system.
