Plumbing problems pose several risks. Old or damaged pipes can crack and flow into underground water, spoiling the water supply. The contaminated water causes health issues. Plumbing issues can cause substantial water damage to your house. Familiarizing yourself with the plumbing concerns you’ll likely experience can help ensure they’re identified and resolved before escalating. Outlined below are four common plumbing problems and how to fix them.
1. Old pipes
A robust, efficient plumbing system ensures your home’s safety and comfort. Nevertheless, as the infrastructure deteriorates, the hidden pipe network that delivers your water and removes waste may pose substantial threats to your property and well-being. Old pipes pose several risks, including the following:
- Pipe ruptures: Old pipes can, in extreme cases, burst or rupture, resulting in significant water damage that necessitates immediate repairs. These ruptures are usually due to the pipe’s structural weaknesses or high water pressure
- Water damage and leaks: As plumbing pipes age, they corrode and weaken, causing cracks and leaks that lead to significant water damage. Besides being costly to repair, water damage creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive
Old pipes can also result in reduced water quality and water pressure. Trenchless pipe rehabilitation can help you restore old and damaged pipes without digging. Unlike traditional pipe repairs, your trenchless pipe lining project doesn’t need excessive excavation or digging, and the process is cost-effective.
2. Blocked drains
Clogged drains are an inconvenience that can ruin your hygiene activities and daily routine completely. Your home’s drains can become clogged for various reasons, including:
- The toilets can get clogged when you flash things that don’t break down, including feminine hygiene products
- Kitchen drains usually get blocked due to fat and grease buildup
- The outdoor drains get clogged because of leaves and debris buildup. Tree roots can grow into pipes and form obstructions, ensuring water doesn’t flow through
You can call a professional plumbing expert to fix your blocked drains. Alternatively, you can use hot water, homemade solutions, or plungers to unclog your drains.
3. Leaky pipes
Leaky pipes are another common plumbing problem that causes several dangers, such as:
- Water damage: It’s among the most severe effects of leaky pipes because they can harm your home’s structure. When ignored, water damage can escalate to the point of compromising your home’s structural integrity
- High water bills: Leaky pipes can waste a substantial amount of water over time, resulting in increased water bills
- Mold growth: It’s another severe leaky pipe consequence. Since mold thrives in damp areas, leaky pipes create the perfect breeding ground
Hiring a professional repiping or repair service can help resolve leaky pipes.
4. Sump pump issues
Sump pumps help keep your basement dry and safeguard your property from water damage. Their malfunction has severe consequences that can result in expensive repairs and possible health hazards, including mold growth. The most common problems with sump pumps include:
- Overwhelmed sump pump
- Lack of water in the sump pit
- Frozen or clogged discharge pipe
- Sump pump clogs
If your sump pump fails, you’ll experience regular cycling, unusual noises, and visible damage or rust. If sump pump issues persist despite routine maintenance, consider calling an expert for an accurate diagnosis. This will help you determine whether to repair or replace your sump pump.
Endnote
Plumbing issues pose many risks for homeowners. However, familiarizing yourself with common plumbing problems, including old pipes, blocked drains, and leaky pipes, can help you fix them before they escalate.
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