Did you know that household leaks in the United States cause up to 1 trillion gallons of water wastage annually?
Plumbing issues are pricey if they go unchecked and might reappear when you most need water. It’s a pain to turn on the shower and not get hot water.
The issue with plumbing problems is that they may go unnoticed for a long time. If the problem enters a critical stage, you are slapped with a huge bill.
Do not let a plumbing problem mess with your day. Instead, plan ahead and avoid it.
Is it necessary to hire a plumber, or is it possible to fix it yourself? Do you have the necessary time, cash, and patience to complete the task? This can be determined by a variety of factors, including prior experience and financial constraints.
The following are the eleven most common plumbing issues that homeowners should be aware of.
1. Dripping Faucets
Dripping faucets are not only a nuisance to homeowners, but it can spike your water bill. Dripping faucets can waste about 5.7 gallons per day, and in a year, that is more than 2 000 gallons.
Here are the common causes of dripping faucets:
Worn Out Washer
When using the faucets, the washer is often forced against the valve seat and thus causing it to wear out. However, the dripping is caused by a worn-out rubber; the problem can be rectified by replacing the washer.
Corroded Valve Seat
A valve seat is a primary connection between the faucet and spout. The accumulation of water sediments often causes valve seat corrosion, resulting in leakage around the spout. However, this issue can be solved by hiring a plumber to clean the valve seat.
Additionally, improper installation of a washer or using the wrong size can cause faucet dripping.
2. Slow Draining Sink
Slow drains are a nuisance; you have to wait minutes to empty the water in your sink.
This problem is often caused by blockages that restrict water flow. The main causes are food remains, soap scum, or hair. You should never ignore slow drains. The issue may seem small, but it can lead to obstruction, preventing water flow through the pipes.
So, how do you unclog your sink? You can fix slow draining sinks and tubs, but sometimes you may need to hire Wooten Knockout Plumbing service. If you decide to do the task, use a plunger, baking powder, or clog remover chemical.
Additionally, you can prevent slow drain by not putting grease, personal items, or excessive food waste into the drains. Installing a mesh trap can also contain large material from penetrating the drains. Regular cleaning is also essential for drain care.
3. Leaky Pipes
Like dripping faucets, leaky pipes can cause water waste and thus increase your water bill. Though leaky pipes may appear like a minor issue, they could signify a larger problem. The leading causes of leaky pipes include:
Pipes Corrosion
When pipes age, rust often forms throughout the plumbing system and thus corrodes them. This results in the formation of openings that allows water to leak. If your plumbing system is more than 30 years, it is likely to experience this problem.
If your pipes are leaky due to old age, the best solution is to install a new one.
Damaged Seal
Seals are often connected to fixtures such as sinks during pipes installation. However, the seals degrade with time, resulting in a water leak. If your pipes leak because of a damaged seal, plumbing repairs can solve the issue.
High Water Pressure
Pipes are designed to withstand specific water pressure. If the pressure exceeds the limits, your pipes are at risk of bursting. Drastic temperature changes can also cause your pipes to contract or expand, thus creating leaks.
The only way to prevent this issue is by installing pipes that match the water pressure.
4. Running Toilets
Running toilets often occur when the three main parts inside the tank have issues.
The first part is the toilet tank, often designed to prevent water overflow. The second part is the flush valve which regulates the release of water inside the tank. Also, issues with the fill valve can also cause a running toilet.
If your toilet is running, it could indicate that the system allows water through the flush valve. Additionally, water-logged floats can cause constant running. Running toilets can be fixed by:
Lowering the Float
If your toilet is running because of tank overflow, you can fix the problem by adjusting the height of the float. To do so, you will need to loosen or tighten the screw.
Replacing Leaking Flapper
If the flapper is old, it could be the leading cause of running toilet. Replace the old flapper with a new one. You will need to drain water from the tank, then detach the chain and remove the flapper.
Shorten Refill Tube
A long refill tube that is not positioned correctly in the overflow tube can also cause a running toilet. You will need to pull the tube out and then trim it off to shorten it.
If you can’t fix a running toilet, a plumber can inspect the issue and identify the root cause.
5. Faulty Water Heater
How do you know when your water heater has an issue? If you have cold water in your shower or water gets warm and not hot, your heater might face imminent failure.
Some of the causes of faulty water heaters include:
Internal Rust
When the sacrificial anodes get corroded, they can make your heater ineffective. These parts often last for years, but it is essential to have a professional inspect them annually and replace them when worn out.
Sediment Buildup
Sediments often build up in your tank and eventually lower the efficiency of your heater. This issue is common if you have hard water. The only way to reduce sediment buildup is by flushing your heater at least once a year.
High Water Pressure
High water pressure damages pipes and the water heater. Thus, if you notice water overflow on the side of the pipes connecting to your heater, the force might be excessive. Always keep water heater pressure not higher than 80 psi.
Additionally, a water heater last about 8 to 12 years, then it will start experiencing heating issues. If your heater has reached the end of its lifespan, the best solution is to replace it with a new one.
6. Sump Pump Failure
A sump pump can help control basement flooding by quickly draining it into the discharge pipe. Thus, you should ensure your sump is well maintained and free from mechanical problems in emergencies. Here are the common causes of sump pump failure:
Overwhelmed Pump
Often, a sump pump can be overwhelmed by water influx. When a sump pump overworks, its lifespan is shortened. You should choose the right sump pump size if you want to control flooding adequately.
Clogged and Frozen Discharge Pipe
Discharge pipes can easily get clogged by debris, and flood water will get back to your basement. To prevent discharge pipes from clogging, you can install a protective cover to eliminate debris from penetrating your discharge pipes.
Other things that may cause sump pump failures include lack of maintenance, improper installation, old age, etc. If you find installing or fixing a sump pump difficult, you can always rely on a professional plumber’s service.
7. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure makes it challenging to use faucets, sinks, dishwashers, toilets, and other home fixtures. Here are the common causes of low water pressure:
Blockage in Pipes
Pipes blockage can be caused by debris buildups that slow water flow. If this is the case, you should consider hiring a licensed plumber to locate where the issue lies in your pipes.
Damaged Pressure Regulator
You need to know that not all plumbing systems have a pressure regulator. However, this device is responsible for adjusting the water flow into your home.
However, if the pressure regulator is defective, it may not correctly adjust the water flow. In such a case, replacing the regulator is the best solution.
Interior Pipe Deterioration
Plumbing systems are made using hard materials like galvanized steel to ensure they last for decades. However, the constant water flow inside the pipes will still cause them to wear over time. If the interior of your pipes has deteriorated due to corrosion, you should consider replacing them.
Other issues that may cause low water pressure include leaks, damaged water meter valves, and water supplier issues. Don’t let low water pressure frustrate you, seek the help of certified plumbers.
8. Sewer Line Issues
Sewer line blockage can be overwhelming and frustrating. You will notice sewer problems with a foul smell that may prevent your from staying in the building. In some situations, it can cause flooding or breakage of sewer pipes.
Sewer problems are not always observable with the naked eyes, but some things can increase the chances of the problem happening—for instance, flushing stuff down the toilet that shouldn’t.
You need to hire sewer experts who recommend solutions like cleaning the line to rectify the problem. In some situations, the main pipes may need replacement. Additionally, Replacing the sewer line also allows other pipes to be inspected.
9. Main Water Line Break
The delivery line bringing water from the public main can also break. This breakage can be frightening and may require heavy equipment to fix the issue. Additionally, digging may be necessary; this demands a professional’s service rather than doing the job yourself.
Mainline break can be caused by shifting soil around, thus causing stress to the pipes running beneath. Other causes of breakage include aging pipes, changes in temperature, pressure changes, or corrosive soil.
When the mainline break, it can cause water problems in your home. However, an inspection must be done to determine the best repair solution.
This may involve digging the ground and repairing broken pipes or using trenchless technology to repair damaged pipes without disturbing the ground.
10. Wet Spots on the Lawn
Wet spots on the lawn may mean water is standing on your property. This issue may be due to poor grading, which might not be hazardous unless water slopes back toward the house.
However, wet spots on the lawn could also be caused by septic systems, leaking sewer lines, or the mainline. If the latter is the cause, the issue should be handled immediately to evade disaster.
Thus, you need to be aware of the source of the wetness so you can take the right action. Some of the standing water problems will only require a few shovels of dirt, while others need a full team of professional plumbers.
Thus, have your lawn inspected when wet to avoid an unwelcome surprise.
11. Clogged Toilets
A clogged toilet is a real nuisance; it overflows and smells bad. Can you imagine having that waste all over the floor?
However, a clogged toilet doesn’t mean the plumbing system is faulty. Sometimes it just takes a few vigorous plunges to clear the problem. In other instances, calling a plumber is essential when you notice sewage backup in multiple locations.
Sewage backup could occur due to the septic tank or sewer line blockage. Professional plumbers will have powerful tools to clear clogs and keep your toilet healthy.
Find the Best Solutions for Your Plumbing Problems
Plumbing problems are indeed inevitable; they are part of owning a home. Though some are caused by normal aging and wear and tear of fixtures, others occur depending on how we use and maintain the plumbing system.
However, whenever you have plumbing issues, you need to contact professional plumbers to do an inspection and determine the best solution.
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