Whether you’re a homeowner, a property manager, or a landlord, you’re eventually going to encounter plumbing problems. In some cases, plumbing problems may require urgent attention as they can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time. Here is a list of 8 of the most common plumbing problems homeowners should be aware of, and should address immediately.
Emergency Plumbing Repair
Leaking Faucets
Leaky faucets are easily the most common plumbing problem homeowners encounter. The main problem with leaky faucets is that it wastes a lot of water, which can lead to expensive water bills. Furthermore, if not fixed, the moisture and dampness created by a leaky faucet can lead to damage in the walls and ceilings of your home. The good news is that fixing a leaky faucet is relatively easy and inexpensive if done in a timely manner.
Leaky Pipes
Along with leaky faucets, leaky pipes are also one of the most common plumbing problems. The main issue with a leaky pipe is that it can cause water damage in your home. A leaky pipe can quickly cause water accumulation, mold, and even structural damage. Whenever you come across a leaky pipe in your home, it is essential to hire a plumber to resolve the issue.
Clogged Sink Drain
Most people don’t pay much attention to kitchen and bathroom sink drains until they become blocked. Clogged sink drains can cause a wide range of issues such as bad odors, backed-up water, and eventually water damage. Luckily, clogged sink drains can easily be fixed by using a plunger or a drain snake. Most clogged drains require professional attention, so it is best to hire a plumber that specializes in drain cleaning services to come and resolve the issue.
Running Toilets
A running toilet is another common plumbing problem that should be attended to immediately. A running toilet can be quite annoying and can end up costing you hundreds of dollars in water bills. Fortunately, diagnosing and fixing a running toilet is relatively easy and can be done by most homeowners. However, if you are unable to stop the toilet from running, it is best to hire a professional plumber to address the issue.
Backed-up Sewer Lines
Backed-up sewer lines can be a real pain to deal with and can cause a lot of damage. A backed-up sewer line will cause sewage and other waste products to back up into the plumbing system, which can lead to water damage and a very unpleasant, musty smell in the house. As such, it is important to call a professional plumber to identify and address the issue.
Low Water Pressure
If you’ve noticed that your faucets and showerheads have suddenly started producing less water than usual, then you likely have a low water pressure issue. Low water pressure can be caused by a number of things, such as a blockage or a hole in the water lines. If a blockage or hole can’t be identified, then it’s possible that your water pipes could have become corroded or damaged. In any case, you should contact a qualified plumber to take a look and determine the cause.
Dirty Water
If you notice that the water from your faucets has a dirty or cloudy appearance, then it could be a warning sign of a major plumbing issue. Cloudy water could indicate there is an issue with the filtration system, or that there is a buildup of dirt and sediment in the pipes that needs to be cleaned out. In any case, it’s best to hire a plumber to take a look and determine the cause.
Faulty Hot Water Heater
If you notice that you’re not getting enough hot water, or the hot water isn’t hot enough, then it’s possible that you have a malfunctioning water heater. In some cases, it’s possible that the water heater may need to be replaced altogether. If this is the case, then it’s important to hire a professional plumber to take a look and determine the cause.
Plumbing Maintenance
While addressing plumbing problems as soon as possible is important, there are also other steps homeowners can take to avoid plumbing problems in the first place. For example, performing routine maintenance on plumbing fixtures will help ensure they are running optimally and can help to prevent potential problems before they become serious. Additionally, being mindful of what substances you put down the drain, such as oils and fats, can also go a long way in preventing plumbing problems from arising.
Overall, plumbing problems are not only a nuisance, but they can also be costly and can cause major damage if left unresolved for too long. As such, it is important to be on the lookout for the most common plumbing problems, such as leaky faucets or pipes, a running toilet, and a clogged sink drain. If any warning signs of these issues arise, it is important to take immediate action in order to avoid additional damage or costly repairs later on.