Whether you have a newly built home or an old one, plumbing is an essential part of your house. But like any other part of the house, plumbing can develop problems. Some plumbing issues are easily DIY-able while others are not. Here’s how to avoid common plumbing problems and stay safe. And don’t worry, there are ways to prevent them from happening in the first place. Parker Plumbing cover plumbing emergencies, pipe repair and preventative maintenance.
Leaking faucets
A leaky faucet can ruin your home’s furniture and flooring. It can also cause bugs, such as cockroaches, to take up residence. To solve the problem, you can attempt a temporary fix like tying up the leaky pipe with tape or compounding it to prevent it from bursting. In case you cannot handle the permanent fix, you need to call a plumber. If the leak persists, you should replace the pipe with a new one. The most common time to leak pipes is winter, as water can expand and freeze. This could lead to the breakage of pipes. To prevent this from happening, make sure to keep your water heater at the same temperature throughout the day and at night.
A dripping faucet is caused by a faulty washer, a corroded valve, or a dripping water heater. A dripping faucet can also be caused by a worn-out valve seat or washer. These can cause the faucet to leak, dislodge, or stiffen. Also, you should check the valve seat if it is worn or corroded. You should also avoid placing things on the faucet or hanging them on them.
Leaky pipes
One of the most common plumbing problems is leaking pipes. This can happen to any pipe in your home, including those under the sink and toilet. If you have a leaky pipe, you could be throwing a lot of water away, and if the water is allowed to remain, it could even cause rot in the wood. Water can also become a breeding ground for insects and bacteria, and it could even transmit diseases. To prevent this problem, you should get a regular home inspection.
Water pressure is another cause for pipe leakage, as it places more stress on pipes. If you’re experiencing too much water pressure, consult a plumber and have them lower the water pressure. Another factor that affects the strain on pipes is the type of water you’re using. Hard water can cause your pipes to corrode, so if you’re not sure about this, you may want to install a water softener.
Clogged drains
While cleaning out clogged drains is one of the most basic maintenance tasks that any homeowner can perform, it’s not always possible to do it on your own. Grease and hair can clog up your drains, combining with other materials and sticking to certain parts of the pipe. These substances create stubborn clogs, making them difficult to remove. Commercial drain cleaners can cause damage to pipes if used repeatedly, so you should always seek professional advice. Plumbing professionals have special tools and materials that will remove even the most stubborn clogs.
The first sign that your drain is clogged is when it slows down. Slow pipes are a common plumbing problem. These slow down the flow of water in your sink or shower. It’s best to avoid using your sink if you can avoid using it. If you have hard water, you can purchase a water softener or descaler. If you have a hard water system, it’s important to install a descaler to remove the sediment. Once the clog is established, it’s difficult to clear it up on your own and you’ll need to hire a plumber to address it.
Hair buildup in pipes
One of the most frustrating plumbing problems is hair buildup in pipes. Hair and other debris gets stuck in the drains, causing water to back up. Hair is also a common cause of clogs further down the plumbing system. To avoid hair buildup, you can use boiling water to dissolve hair and grease, which can prevent clogs and drain backups. Another easy solution is using vinegar and baking soda to dissolve grease. After you remove the clog, drain the waste water with hot water to see if it cleared the problem.
While we don’t typically think of hair as a plumbing problem, it is one of the most common problems we face. Hair clogs can be problematic, causing slow drainage, sewage backup, and costly repairs. While you shouldn’t put hair down the drain, it’s impossible to completely avoid it. A clog can be caused by soap scum and cooking grease. You can help prevent hair buildup by using a drain guard.
Sediment buildup in pipes
When water doesn’t drain correctly, sediment buildup in your pipes can be a sign of a serious plumbing problem. If your water pressure is too low, or if it smells bad, you may have sediment buildup in your pipes. Sediment in pipes is caused by rust and water that has become contaminated. You can prevent sediment buildup by performing regular plumbing maintenance.
If you see rust-colored water that is discoloured, it is highly likely that your plumbing system is clogged with sediment. The sediment will eventually erode your faucet fittings and other fixtures. Over time, sediment can clog your pipes and appliances, reducing water flow and resulting in expensive repairs. To prevent this problem, you should regularly descale your pipes.