Plumbing maintenance is a critical component in homeownership. Common plumbing problems are bound to arise. The plumbing system is a unique collection of fittings, drains, valves, pipes, assemblies, and other devices installed within the home for the purpose of distributing water for various tasks and eliminating various types of wastes from the home.
As a homeowner, you will quickly discover that the plumbing system is one of the single most important systems to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of your home. All it takes is one issue with this system and you will quickly discover just how important it is.
Despite using the best supplies and the most effective designs, it is quite likely that you will – eventually – experience common plumbing problems. Here, you will be introduced to the 10 most common problems associated with residential plumbing systems. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Low Water Pressure
Have you ever turned on your water faucet to find that the water emerging seems to be moving at a trickle, despite your expecting a fast-flowing gush?
If you answered “yes”, it is likely that it is a result of low water pressure. While most commonly associated with older homes as they tend to have older plumbing system components.
This could be a direct result of an accumulation of sediment and various types of mineral deposits in an aerator. It could also be a result of a pipe leak that is cracked, worn, or even corroded.
2. Water Emerges from a Faucet or Showerhead in Spurts
Perhaps the water pressure is fine throughout your home, but you turn on a showerhead or a faucet and see the water coming out in random spurts – almost like part of the faucet or showerhead is not functioning properly.
If this is the case, the filter inside of the showerhead or the faucet could be cram full of debris like minerals, iron, and other types of sediment.
You can take off the showerhead or the cap at the end of the faucet, and find the filter. You may use vinegar, baking soda, and a toothbrush to clean off the filter.
If exceptionally, clogged, soak the filter overnight in the vinegar in order to completely clear it of deposits. Reattach accordingly and the showerhead or the faucet should work like new!
3. Sink Does Not Drain Correctly
You do a load of dishes – and suddenly – the water does not want to drain out of the kitchen sink. This is likely due to food debris, detergent, soap, sediment, and other substances becoming clogged within the drain. In most cases, this is an easy fix.
Simply boil a pot of water. Once very hot, pour it down the drain.
If you are still experiencing issues, pour baking soda directly over the drain and then pour vinegar over the baking soda. It will bubble up and work on eliminating the clog.
Then, boil one more pot of water. When hot, pour it down the drain. If the drain is still stopped up, do the steps again. Likely, the drain will open up and the problem will be resolved.
4. Clogged Bath or Shower Drain
If the drain in your bathtub or shower seems clogged, it likely is – with either hair, soap, or other types of debris. You may use the hot water, vinegar, and baking soda solution mentioned previously. In extreme situations, you may have to utilize a plunger or a snake.
If you have to use a plunger, you may use petroleum jelly around the edges of the plunger to ensure the seal is tight.
If you find that you are unable to dislodge the clog, you may use a plumbing snake; however, if this does not work, you may need to call for professional help.
5. A Clogged Toilet
If you have flushed your toilet and quickly observe the water rising, chances are, you have a clog. In most instances, it is due to a combination of paper products and human waste. In most cases, this may be resolved by using a plunger. In others, a drain auger may need to be used.
6. Toilet Consistently Runs
If you hear your toilet running, it needs to be fixed immediately. It could be a result of a faulty flapper, an accumulation of sediment, rusty chain, or a similar issue. You may also have a leak that you are unaware of.
With a few simple tools, this can often be resolved; however, if you are unable to get it fixed quickly, you may need to call a plumber as you could lose several hundred gallons of water each day with a running toilet.
This could cost a lot in terms of your utility bills.
7. No Hot Water
You jump in the shower only to discover the water feels like icicles hitting your skin because there is no hot water. The issue could be as small as a pilot light going out or a breaker that has popped. This is one of the very common plumbing problems.
It could also be a result of sediment buildup, a bad thermostat, or something more serious.
It is best to have a professional check this one out due to the electrical or gas component of the water heater.
8. Leaky Pipes
If you develop a leak in your pipes, you could be facing immense issues. Water is very damaging to your home and the items in it. In most instances, the pipe bursts because of weather conditions. In other cases, it could be a connection issue or corrosion.
9. Drip in the Faucet
This is typically caused by an internal washer inside of the faucet. It could need cleaned or replaced. In some cases, it could be a matter of becoming dislodged. It is an easy fix, just so long as you have the proper types of tools and know-how.
10. Sewer Backing Up
By far, the biggest problem of all is a sewer system backup. These are caused by a sewer line clog, tree roots, or old sewer lines breaking or cracking. If this happens, there are no questions about it – you HAVE to call a plumber!
Need help with your common plumbing problems? Call us today at: 765-966-0994
