According to the U.S. Environmental Plumbing Agency (EPA), an average household wastes around 10,000 gallons of water every year due to plumbing leaks. Unchecked plumbing issues aren’t only bad for the environment, but also for your wallet.
The bad news is that a lot of plumbing issues go undetected until they reach a breaking point, leaving you with a hefty bill. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and solutions for common plumbing problems can save you money and stress. Here’s a closer look:
Leaky Faucets
The constant drip-drip of faucets is an auditory annoyance. And the next thing you know, you can hear it even when you’re not home. Leaky faucets are caused by:Â
- Worn o-ring
- Old cartridge
- Corroded valve seals
- Worn-out washers
What to do: Turn off the shut-off valve and disassemble the faucet. Check the condition of o-rings, washers, and cartridges, and clean up any buildup. Replace the parts if there is significant damage.Â
When to call a plumber: Unfortunately, you can’t DIY your way through every leaky faucet. Call a plumber if the faucet is really old and the pipes are in poor condition. Plumbers will inspect for excessive corrosion and determine what can be done to provide relief from the drip-drip noise.
Clogged Drain
A clogged drain is another common plumbing issue. You will see water draining very slowly or not at all in the sinks, bathtubs, or showers. The main culprits for a clogged drain are:
- Hair
- Soap
- Scum
- Grease
- Food
- Mineral buildup
Small clogs can be removed with a plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. If the clog is particularly stubborn and disrupting your daily life, call a plumber. They will use a drain snake or a hydro jetter to break up blockages and remove debris.
When drain clogs are not timely removed, they can lead to overflowing toilets and septic tank issues. Professional plumbing repairs are your best shot at resuming proper drainage and water flow.
Slow Water Pressure
Low water pressure might not seem like a big issue, but it can make daily tasks, such as showering, washing dishes, or doing laundry, time-consuming. The causes of slow water pressure are:
- Clogged pipes
- Faulty pressure regulator
- Leaking pipes
- Corroded pipes
- Partially closed valves
Want to troubleshoot this issue yourself? Check for obvious signs. Ensure the shut-off valves located near the water meter and main line are fully open. Â
If you have a complex plumbing system with old pipes, call the plumber for a full inspection. They might replace corroded pipes. They can also power flush your plumbing system to remove stubborn clogs and blockages.
Sewer System Backup
If your sewer system is backing up and you smell a foul odor, take immediate action. Excessive grease, hair, and food particles can clog the sewer line, causing structural damage and health issues.
Other signs of sewer backup include:
- Pooling water around flood drains
- Slow-draining fixtures
- Water backs up in the toilets or sinks
To prevent further damage, call a plumber and have them inspect the entire sewer system.Â
