5 Common Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them
If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your water bill or if the toilet is flushing slowly, there may be a problem with your plumbing system. Don’t panic! Most problems can be fixed easily with the proper tools and know-how.
Understanding the most common plumbing issues and how to fix them with a Seattle plumber can save you time, money, and headaches.
Clogged Drains
Blocked drains are a frequent issue that can become expensive if dealt with slowly. Thankfully, you can take numerous preventative measures, such as keeping hair and other debris away from your drains.
Dental floss, stringy hair, animal fur, and other items can get caught up in your drains, causing them to knot up or combine with other substances to form a solid blockage. These items can also cause bad odors in your home.
One effective way to remove tough clogs in your drain is to pour baking soda and boiling water into it. If these methods fail, you can use a wire drain snake to loosen the blockage. However, be cautious when using this tool to avoid causing damage to your pipes by applying too much force.
Leaky Pipes
Pipes that leak water can cause a lot of problems in your home. They can corrode, crack, and burst, leading to costly water damage and serious health issues. According to The Home Depot, it’s important to keep a supply of plumber’s tape or self-fusing silicone tape handy to fix leaking pipes immediately before the problem worsens.
Most of the time, a leaking pipe is the result of weakened joints due to age, vibration, or water hammer. But sometimes, they’re a sign that you need to get your plumbing inspected and repiped by a professional. Leaking pipes can also create a fire hazard, as they often leak near electrical systems and encourage rodents to chew on the wires in your walls.
Water Heater Issues
The water heater is one of the most expensive parts of your plumbing system. It can also cause some of the most severe problems when it fails.
A water heater leaking can lead to disastrous consequences, such as causing rust and damage to your home. Additionally, it can also become a breeding ground for bacteria and insects.
Leaky pipes are a common problem that can be very costly to fix. One drip per second can add up to much water waste and high water bills.
Multiple slow or clogged drains indicate it’s time to call a plumber. Clogged drains are often caused by hair, soap scum, and other debris that build up over time. You can prevent clogs by keeping a regular schedule of routine drain cleaning.
Low Water Pressure
When water pressure is low throughout the entire house, it’s generally a problem with the pipes. But when only one or two fixtures have low water pressure, it’s usually an internal issue with the fixture itself.
Over time, pipes can become clogged with mineral deposits, rust, or other debris restricting the water flow path. This is particularly common in older galvanized steel pipes.
Homeowners can sometimes fix this by shutting off the water at the meter valve and flushing the pipes with vinegar. If the problem persists, a plumber may need to assess the situation.
Running Toilet
A running toilet isn’t just annoying; it can also cause your water usage to skyrocket and cost you a fortune in extra utility bills. Thankfully, if you catch this issue in time, there are several simple things you can do to fix it without the help of a plumber.
For example, if your toilet’s handle is stuck down, this can keep the flapper from creating a proper seal and allow water to run through your toilet continuously. Loosen the handle or replace it to correct this issue.
Of course, if you have tried these tips and still can’t fix your running toilet, you should call a professional. If left unchecked, a running toilet can lead to costly and messy side effects like backed-up drains and water damage.
