They can be every homeowner’s nightmare and often go undetected for a while.
Plumbing problems can hurt your wallet and your house if you do not act. Plus, household leaks waste almost 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide. That is a lot of Olympic swimming pools!
So, what can you do to stay on top of plumbing maintenance in your home?
Read on for five common plumbing issues you need to know about, so you can take action fast.
1. Dripping Faucets
A leaking faucet may seem harmless, but put a bowl under the leak, and you will see how quickly the water fills up.
In fact, a faucet dripping at one drip per second can equate to about 3,000 gallons of water yearly. That’s roughly 180 showers!
There are different reasons for a faucet leaking. You may need a new O ring or washer, or it may be due to a longer-standing issue, such as corrosion or broken plumbing.
Unless you have the right tools and are confident in your plumbing skills, it is best to get an expert to fix this problem.
2. Water Heater Issues
When your warm shower comes out cold, it can be a bit of a shock. But issues with water heaters can also be dangerous. So check your water heater regularly.
Other signs that you have an issue are puddles around the heater, discolored water, or if the water heater makes unusual noises.
Most issues with water heaters are complex and require extensive repair by a professional. If you notice a leak from your water heater, contact a service immediately.
3. Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes can go undetected. Warning signs include significant increases in water bill costs or unexplained damp smells in your house. Water stains and drops in water pressure also suggest you may need a leak repair service.
Not sure if there is a leak? A leak detection specialist will be able to identify any leaks and fix them for you.
4. Clogged Drains
Regularly inspect drains and remove any foreign objects from the plug, such as hair after a shower.
You can also arrange drain cleaning to keep on top of plumbing maintenance.
If water is slow to drain in multiple drains or water comes back up, there could be a more serious blockage. This can lead to sewer line problems, and your house will need a sewer repair service.
5. A Running Toilet
A running toilet is usually caused by its flapper seal, handle, or flush valve.
Do your own plumbing maintenance by checking your toilet often. Listen and watch for water still running between uses after flushing.
If you suspect you have an issue, get it sorted sooner rather than later to save on your water bill!
Be in Charge of Plumbing Problems
Regularly inspect your home for the common plumbing problems in this article. If you suspect an issue, do not hesitate to contact a professional.
Need help with a plumbing problem? Contact us here. Or for an immediate response, call us on (480) 336-9235.