The Top 5 Plumbing Issues Homeowners Face
It's no secret that plumbing issues can be a huge headache for homeowners. Not only are they often expensive to fix, but they can also be a major inconvenience.
Imagine you come home to find your sink is completely backed up. Or you turn on the shower and water starts pouring out from under the bathroom door. These are just a few of the many plumbing issues homeowners can face.
If you're lucky, you'll never experience any of the top 5 plumbing issues homeowners face. But if you're not so lucky, read on for some information about what to do when these problems occur.
1. Leaky Faucets or Pipes
A leaky faucet may not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can really add up. Not only will you be wasting water, but you'll also be using more energy to reheat that lost water.
Leaky pipes are a serious safety hazard, as well as can cause major cosmetic and structural water damage to your property when left unchecked. They are generally caused by faulty pipes joints, but burst pipes can also be the source.
To fix a leaky faucet or pipe, first shut off the water supply to the faucet. Then, remove the handle and the packing nut from the faucet. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply. If the leak persists, you may need to replace the washer or seal in the faucet. You can repair most pipe joints temporarily with plumber’s tape, compounds, or fillers that can be purchased from your local hardware store.
2. Clogged Drains
One of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face is clogged sinks and drains. This can be caused by a variety of things, such as hair, food particles, and grease.
A clogged drain can be a real hassle, particularly if you don't know how to fix it.
If your sink or drain becomes clogged, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it. To unclog a drain, start by using a plunger or a plumbing snake to dislodge the clog, or you can pour a baking soda and vinegar mixture down the drain. If that doesn't work, try pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain.
If the clog is really stubborn, you may need to call a plumber for help.
3. Running Toilets
A running toilet is not only annoying, but it can be one of the most costly of all plumbing issues. The more your toilet runs, the more water you waste, and the higher your water bills.
It's not always easy to tell when a toilet is running. Most people leave the bathroom before the tank is refilled, and you may not hear the continual water flowing from other rooms.
The most common cause of a running toilet is a leaky flapper valve, which most individuals can perform on their own.
To fix a running toilet, first shut off the water supply to the toilet. Then, remove the tank lid and check the flapper valve. If the valve is leaking, replace it. If the valve is not leaking, check the fill tube and the float cup. If either of those parts are defective, replace them.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make it difficult to get the water you need for tasks like showering and washing dishes. Low water pressure is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of things, such as clogged pipes, a leaky faucet, or a faulty water heater. Most likely the issue is caused by sediment.
There is calcium and minerals in the water that travels through your pipes and plumbing fixtures. It may build up over time, restricting water flow through the pipes or fixtures causing a variety of plumbing issues, which is particularly prevalent in older properties.
To fix low water pressure, start by checking to see if there is any obvious blockage in the pipes. If there is, clear it and try turning on the water again.
If your shower pressure isn't as strong as it should be, clean the shower head with vinegar to remove any debris. This technique may also be used on any other plumbing device. If that doesn't increase water pressure, you'll need a full plumbing evaluation to see if repair or replacement is the best option.
5. Hot Water Heater Issues
A hot water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, and when it goes out, it can be a real hassle. Not only do you have to take cold showers, but you may also have to go without hot water for laundry or dishes.
Water heater issues can be both costly and inconvenient. There are a variety of things that can go wrong with a hot water heater, and most of them require the services of a professional plumber.
Some common issues with hot water heaters include:
- The tank is leaking
- The tank is rusting
- There is no hot water
- The water is not getting hot enough
If you are experiencing any of these problems with your water heater, it's best to call a plumber for repair or replacement. Waiting too long can lead to more serious and costly problems down the road.
These are just a few of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. By knowing what to look for and how to fix them, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and aggravation.
If you are experiencing any plumbing issues, please call our experts at Craig Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. We will be happy to help you get your home's plumbing back on track.