The plumbing system in your house may seem to work on autopilot, but it still requires regular inspections and assistance from a professional plumber. Catching plumbing issues early can save you money and prevent future problems.
Dripping faucets waste gallons of water and contribute to higher water bills. Clogged drains, caused by food waste, soap scum, and hair, are another common plumbing issue that can lead to costly repairs.
Leaky Faucet
The constant drip-drip of a leaky faucet is more than an annoying sound; it can waste gallons of water each day and lead to higher water bills. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, household leaks waste around 1.0 trillion gallons of water annually.
A leaky faucet can also indicate deeper problems within the plumbing system such as corrosion, valve issues, or even more serious damage to pipes and fixtures. Water from a leaking faucet seeps into crevices and cracks, creating a moist environment where mold can grow. If not treated, mold can threaten the health and safety of your family.
To fix a leaky faucet, first shut off the water supply valves beneath the sink. Next, remove the decorative index cap and screw to expose the handle screw. Use a screwdriver or wrench to loosen and remove the handle. After removing the handle, inspect the components for wear and tear, then clean them thoroughly and lubricate.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can be a serious issue, preventing water and waste from flowing away from your home. If you’re experiencing slow and backed-up drains, notice gurgling sounds, or experience unpleasant odors wafting from your sink, tub, or toilet, there may be a blockage forming that requires professional attention.
Fortunately, drain clogs are typically preventable by being mindful of what goes down your pipes and keeping an eye out for trouble signs. Using a drain strainer in your bathtub and kitchen can reduce soap scum buildup, while regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help dissolve food particles and other debris that can cause blockages. If you’re faced with a stubborn drain clog, don’t reach for chemical drain cleaners; instead try a DIY solution like straightening out a wire coat hanger to create a hook and manually pulling out hair or gunk from the line, or using a plumbing snake (or auger) to break apart or dislodge the obstruction.
Water Stains
When you see dingy toilets, grimy showers, stained sinks or rusty tubs and fixtures, it’s a good idea to check for problems with your home’s water supply. A leaky pipe is
likely the culprit, which can result in spikes in your home’s water bill and serious (and costly) water damage to wood and masonry.
These stains are typically caused by hard water that picks up dissolved minerals from underground layers of rock on its journey to your home. The mineral deposits make it difficult for water to rinse away soap scum and creates white spots on bathtubs, sinks, glass shower doors, faucets and fixtures.
A professional plumber can help you identify these stains and install a water softener to address the problem. Recognizing these common house plumbing issues can save you money in repair costs and keep your home healthy and beautiful. A thorough plumbing inspection by a qualified plumber can also prevent major issues in the future.
Rattling Pipes
There are some plumbing problems that simply need the help of a professional plumber. For example, if you hear loud banging noises coming from your walls or ceiling, it is likely that one of the pipes is loose and is rattling against its surroundings. Trying to fix this issue on your own can lead to more damage and expensive repairs. Recognizing that a problem is serious and calling in a professional as soon as possible can save you both money and stress.
Loose pipes that cause rattling noises usually need to be fastened, which is relatively simple and cheap. Additionally, a plumber can install a device called a water hammer arrestor that absorbs shockwaves caused by turning on and off your faucets, so your pipes won’t bang against the walls and framing of your home. Learn more about preventing rattling pipes and other common house plumbing issues at https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ or sites that are similar with a lot of resourceful information.
