There are a variety of plumbing problems that can plague homeowners, including dripping faucets, clogged drains and water heater issues. These problems often go unnoticed until they reach a critical point, leading to expensive repair bills.
Savvy DIYers can sometimes fix some of these issues, but it’s important to know when it’s time to call a professional. Understanding common plumbing problems and their telltale signs can help you make the right decision.
Dripping Faucets
If you have a leaky faucet, it’s worth taking the time to find and address the issue. Even a single drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year, leading to expensive water bills and possible plumbing damage.
Visible drops or condensation around sink basins or faucet hardware are signs of a leak. You should also watch your water usage to see if your water bill is going up. And a musty smell indicates the presence of mold and mildew, which can lead to health issues.
Most leaking faucets are the result of a worn out washer or O-ring. These are easy to replace and often the most straightforward cause of a dripping faucet. However, other factors may be at play as well.
Leaks from the base of a faucet are more serious and require professional attention. Water collects under the faucet and can damage pipes, drywall, and other surfaces. This type of leak requires a plumber’s help as it is likely caused by a broken pipe or fitting underneath the sink.
Another common cause of a leaking faucet is a valve seat that has become corroded. This is often the result of hard water in Muncie that wears down the faucet components over time. This is usually a DIY fix, but it can be tricky as the valve seat is usually hidden under the sink and you’ll need to remove the handle, packing nut, and stem in order to access it.
Finally, it’s important to check the water pressure in your home as high water pressure can also be a cause of leaking faucets. This is generally more of a problem in older homes with copper or galvanized steel pipes, as the pressure can erode the joints and cause them to leak. Luckily, high water pressure is typically easier to diagnose and resolve as it can be fixed by simply adding a water pressure reducer. You can purchase a water pressure reducer at any home improvement store or online. Or you can use a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials) or an electric heating pad to thaw the frozen section of pipe.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are among the most common plumbing problems. They can be a nightmare to deal with, but can also be easily prevented with preventative maintenance and regular cleanings. If your pipes are completely blocked, however, it will probably be necessary to call a plumber for professional help – and if you do, please ensure they’re a good plumber with expertise akin to the Lexington plumbers.
Slow drainage is usually one of the first signs that you’re dealing with a clog. It can be a result of a buildup of hair, soap scum, food particles, or even just dirt or mineral deposits. In many cases, a plunger or homemade mixture of vinegar and baking soda can dislodge these items and get the water flowing again. For more serious blockages, a plumber might be needed to use a drain snake or other special equipment.
Another sure sign of a clogged drain is when the toilet won’t flush properly. Toilets connect directly to the main sewer line, and when this line is clogged, it can cause sewage backup throughout the house. This is often a much more serious issue that requires professional attention to resolve and can involve expensive repairs.
If you’re seeing multiple clogged drains at the same time, this is another warning sign that something is wrong. A local clog in the drain pipe should only affect one fixture, so when multiple are affected at once, it likely indicates that there is a broader problem further down the line. This could be due to a broken pipe, or it could simply mean that the waste isn’t able to make it through the system to be eliminated.
When a clogged drain begins producing foul odors, it’s generally a clear indication that there is a severe problem somewhere in the system. Sewage and other untreated waste can start to build up in the pipes, and these odors will be released into the home. This is an extremely dangerous situation that must be addressed immediately to protect the health and safety of your family.
Another clear indicator of a clogged pipe is when you notice that the water pressure in the shower or tub has decreased. This is a sign that the water has become stagnant and that it is being redirected to other areas of the home through the clogged pipe. If this goes on for too long, it could lead to major structural damage and costly repairs.
Water Heater Issues
Whether it’s a dripping faucet, water heater that makes strange noises or low water pressure, many plumbing problems can be identified and solved by yourself, if you know what to look for. This comprehensive guide teaches you how to tackle the most common plumbing issues and gives tips on when to call a professional. Having the right tools and safety gear on hand for DIY repairs is essential, but knowing when to call in the pros will help you avoid costly repairs.
Leaking pipes are more than just annoying—they’re a major waste of money and cause serious damage to your home over time. Leaving a leak unattended can result in expensive water bills, mold growth and even foundation damage. Checking your meter for movement can help identify the source of the leak, and replacing worn washers and seals can often fix it.
Drains can become clogged from hair, soap scum, food scraps and other debris, leading to slow drainage or backflow. Taking steps like installing drain screens and regular plunger and snake treatments can prevent drain clogs. Using baking soda and vinegar to unclog a drain is also an easy, cost-effective solution. For severe clogs, calling a plumber may be necessary.
Running toilets are not only noisy, but they can also lead to costly water and sewer bill overage. Identifying the problem can be as simple as replacing the flapper valve or as complicated as repairing a broken flush tank. Regular maintenance like draining the sediment and testing the temperature and pressure relief valve helps keep your toilet functioning properly.
A faulty water heater is not only inconvenient—it can also increase your energy bills and leave you without hot water for showers, dishes or washing clothes. The most common signs of a faulty water heater include changes in hot water temperature, higher energy bills and strange smells. Testing the pilot light and cleaning or replacing the thermostat can often resolve the problem, but if your water heater is beyond repair, a professional should be called.
Plumbing problems can happen at any time, but they usually pop up when you least expect them or when you have other obligations. With the right knowledge and preparation, however, you can save yourself money and hassle by diagnosing and fixing the most common household plumbing problems.
Low Water Pressure
If your home has experienced an abrupt change in water pressure, it is best to turn off all the faucets and shower heads in the house and call a plumber right away. This may be a sign that the water service line is clogged or a major leak is occurring. A plumber can diagnose and repair the problem before it gets worse, preventing costly water damage to your walls and floors.
Similarly, if your home’s water pressure is fine in some areas but not others, it’s best to shut off all the faucets and fixtures in the house and check them individually. This can help you determine if it is an issue with one fixture, such as a low-pressure aerator on your kitchen sink or the water pressure regulator. In some cases, simply adjusting the water pressure on your kitchen faucet or shower head can solve the issue.
Low water pressure is a common plumbing issue in older homes, but it can also occur in newer homes. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse of water by household members and clogged pipes. Over time, water pipes can corrode and restrict water flow or become clogged with mineral build-up.
When this occurs, homeowners should consult a plumber for pipe cleaning or replacement services. This can restore water pressure and prevent further problems in the future.
One of the most serious causes of low water pressure is a burst pipe. When this occurs, the sudden influx of water can cause severe damage to walls, ceilings and flooring. Homeowners should look for clues that their pipes are in need of replacement, such as discoloration around water connections, strange noises coming from the pipes or stains on the wall or ceiling.
When homeowners have trouble with their home’s water supply, they should first shut off the main water valve at their house’s water meter. Next, they should read their water meter before and after shutting off all the water outlets in the house to see if the reading changes. If the water meter reading increases, it is likely that a large leak is occurring. Homeowners should consult a plumber to replace their pipes and restore water pressure.
