A well-functioning plumbing system delivers clean water and safely removes waste. But defects can arise from various causes, resulting in problems like clogged drains, low water pressure and leaky pipes.
Detecting and fixing these issues before they worsen is essential for maintaining a comfortable home. Learn what can cause issues with your plumbing system so you can take preventative measures.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a frequent plumbing problem that can cause serious damage if left unchecked. Food scraps, coffee grounds, grease, hair, and soap scum can all contribute to blockages in kitchen sinks, showers, and toilets. Heavy rainfall and storms can also wash debris into drain lines, causing clogs.
When a drain or toilet becomes blocked, check to see if it affects just one fixture or the entire house. If it’s the whole house, start at the lowest level of the home and work your way up to identify the source of the problem.
Many clogs are preventable by taking a proactive approach to drain maintenance. Educating family members about what can and cannot go down the drains, using commercial drain cleaners, and regularly cleaning with a plunger can help keep clogs to a minimum. Having water softeners installed in homes with hard water can also reduce mineral buildup that leads to clogs and pipe damage.
Water Leaks
If you see water leaking from or around your house, it’s time to call in the plumbing professionals. Leaks can cause significant damage if not fixed quickly, including rotted wood, mold growth, warped flooring and ceilings, and sagging walls. Leaking pipes can also increase your water bill significantly. There are many causes of plumbing leaks, from old age and corrosion to faulty seals and valves.
You can help to prevent these problems by regularly cleaning your drains and making sure you are not putting things down the drain that could cause a clog (such as grease, oil, paper towels, or hygiene products). It is also important to insulate exposed pipes in cold areas and keep your water pressure at a reasonable level. Also, it’s a good idea to have regular plumbing maintenance checks done by professionals to spot potential issues before they become major problems.. A professional plumber can also install new, more durable piping if your current ones are getting too old.
Frozen Pipes
When water freezes, it expands, putting tremendous pressure on the pipe. This can cause the pipe to swell or burst, which is a plumbing emergency that requires immediate attention.
Frozen pipes can occur in many ways, but cold temperatures and a lack of insulation are the most common causes. In addition, drafts and poorly sealed gaps in the home allow frigid air to seep into the residence, significantly impacting the temperature of pipes that are exposed in unheated spaces like basements, attics, or garages.
Signs that you may have frozen pipes include a lack of water or a trickling stream when a faucet is turned on, gurgling sounds coming from drains, and the presence of sewer odors in the home. The best way to avoid frozen pipes is to have someone check your home when you’re out of town during the winter, keep the heat in a consistent setting, and insulate any exposed pipes. You can also use a heating pad, electric hair dryer, or a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials) to warm the area around frozen pipes.
High Water Bills
Increasing water bill charges are not just inconvenient, but they’re often an indicator of serious plumbing problems that need to be addressed. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to help reduce your water consumption and lower those pesky bills.
Leaks are a common problem that can waste gallons of water and lead to expensive repair costs. The best way to prevent leaks is to check your faucets regularly, listen for running toilets and watch out for discoloration near the pipes. Fixing a leaking faucet can be as easy as tightening the handle or replacing a washer, but some repairs may require professional assistance. Be sure to shut off the water supply before attempting any DIY fixes and always have the appropriate tools on hand. Ultimately it is best to leave it to professionals when finding big water leaks. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-melbourne/ will have more detailed information for issues with your plumbing system.
