Plumbing problems are an unavoidable part of home ownership that every homeowner must deal with. Your home’s plumbing system works hard in the background to provide water for your faucets and appliances. However, it might occasionally develop issues that necessitate professional assistance.
Common plumbing problems may include simple issues like leaking faucets to serious ones like sewage backups. While some of the plumbing issues in your home may result from regular wear and tear on the plumbing system, others are our fault, maybe because of usage or neglect. But with a few simple tips, you can prevent these plumbing issues and save money, time, and stress.
Here are some of the common plumbing issues and how to prevent them:
1. Leaking Faucets and Pipes
Water leaks can be a nuisance as it not only causes property damage but also raises your water bill significantly. An average household leak can amount to over 10,000 gallons of water per year. That’s roughly the amount of water required to wash 270 laundry loads. So, don’t dismiss those small drips since they may quickly increase.
A leaky faucet and pipe are usually caused damage to the washer that creates the seal on your tap. Stiffening, tearing, and dislodging are all examples of damage. When this happens, the washer becomes loose, allowing water to drip from the faucet. Also, the valve seat may corrode and wear over time, causing leaks. Leaks may also happen due to shifting, excessive water pressure, deterioration, and other damage. Most leaks occur at the joints.
To prevent the leaking problem:
- Inspect the pipes regularly to detect the problems early. You can replace your washer if you realize any damage.
- Water softening can also assist increase the life of your pipes and faucets. Decrease mineral buildup that may cause corrosion in the pipes using reverse osmosis or an ion-exchange resin.
- Conserve water to help your pipes breathe a little easier.
- Reduce wear by carefully turning faucets on and off to avoid undue pressure on the handles.
- Consult a professional plumber to help identify the best solution to your leaking problem.
2. Clogged Drains
Drains transport liquid from your faucet down to the plumbing. When anything blocks the drain, it causes a clog. A clogged drain causes water back up instead of draining normally. Drains can quickly and cheaply be cleaned, but following these simple tips will help you prevent the blockage:
- Avoid pouring grease down the drain: Grease or oil poured down your drains when cooking will hang around and solidify. More of it will cause a buildup and clog your drainpipes.
- Install drain strainers: Drain strainers are the most effective solution to keeping hair and other debris out of your bathroom and sink drains. Strainers are affordable and easy to set up.
- Pour hot water down the drain: Pour hot water down the drains every week to remove any scum and buildup from the pipes.
- Don’t abuse Your Garbage Disposal: Only soft or chopped foodstuff and liquid should pass through your unit. Bones and fruit pits should be avoided since they might block your drain and damage your garbage disposal.
- Only Flush Dissolvable Garbage into the Toilet: Anything apart from tissue paper and human waste should be discarded in a trash container. Avoid flushing napkins, cotton balls, paper towels, hygiene products, or other ordinary bathroom items.
3. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can sometimes be a nuisance to homeowners. Besides increasing the time, one takes bathing, washing dishes, and watering outside plants, it also dramatically increases the amount of water needed to complete these simple tasks. Some of the causes of low water pressure in your house could be:
- Leaking pipes
- Faulty pressure regulator
- Clogged pipes or faucets
- Water distributor problems
- Partially closed water meter valve.
To avoid this plumbing problem, inspect your pipes regularly to identify any leaks before they become a huge problem. Also, ensure the water meter valve are fully open and functional. Install a filtration system to prevent mineral buildup in your pipes. If the low water pressure problem is only in your shower, dip the aerator in vinegar for some time to clear the buildup. Learn more on how to solve low water pressure issues.
4. Water Heating Issues
When it comes to home maintenance, your water heater is usually one of the last things on your mind. If you want to protect your investment and continue enjoying hot showers, follow these essential water heater maintenance tips. These simple steps will help you avoid any plumbing issues in the future and keep the water heater working at its peak.
- Examine the pressure relief and temperature valve
- Check the anode rod
- Drain the water heater
- Set the required temperature
- Insulate the water heater
Bottom Line
Most plumbing issues that homeowners face can be easily prevented. However, if you notice any plumbing issues in your home, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to fix them immediately. We at Coldwright Plumbing and Heating offer fast, reliable, and courteous plumbing and heating services. We provide plumbing repairs, replacements, planned cleaning, and maintenance. We are always available for your plumbing needs in Harford County, Baltimore County, and its surroundings.
Contact us today to schedule our exceptional plumbing and heating services.
