As much as they would love to, homeowners can’t always keep their homes safe from every damage threat. Unfortunately, sometimes damages will appear, and quick actions are required to constrain the problems. When an accident or incident occurs, the homeowner needs to stay composed, fix the issue they can, and call in a professional when they can’t. Because a homeowner has to invest time and money into home repairs, it stands to reason that they can get frustrated.
Plumbing problems are a common issue that can frustrate homeowners. These issues can be particularly annoying because a small leak or clogged drain may still require the expertise of a plumber to fix. But ignoring even a simple water leak can lead to other, more expensive problems.
Water damage from plumbing issues can be costly, but they’re usually avoidable if you take swift action. Below is a list of some of the most common plumbing issues homeowners have to deal with.
Clogged Drains
No one wants to take a relaxing bath that ends with a tub full of water that won’t drain. This will certainly ruin anyone’s mood, but if you don’t want the issue to worsen, you need to act fast. In most situations, the issue causing the blockage is hair, but other small objects can get stuck in the drain as well. The easy fix is a plunger. With the help of air pressure, the object blocking the pipe may dislodge enough to go down the drain.
If this does not help, chemical pipe cleaners can always dissolve most of the dirt and what is blocking the drain. If these methods fail, call a professional plumber.
Leaking Pipes
A leaking pipe is one of the most damaging plumbing problems, especially if it’s located in the wall. Pipe leaks usually occur when they become worn, the connections become loose, or they are inadvertently punctured.
Even a small water drip can cause mold to appear. It can also affect the walls and cause paint to chip and peel. In the worst situations, it can draw pests, like insects and rodents. Owners can try to tighten the pipes at the joints or add some patches over the puncture to stop the leak temporarily until a professional comes. Place a bucket under the leak and empty it regularly to avoid additional damage. In most situations, leaks can only be fixed by professional plumbers or someone with extensive plumbing knowledge.
Water Pressure Not Strong Enough
In some cases, low water pressure is not so much damaging as it is annoying. It can make showering less comfortable and it can make it more difficult to do laundry or dishes This issue often appears in old homes because pipes get corroded over time, but it can also be caused by a leak.
If the water pressure is low in only one place, like the bathroom sink, it may be a problem with those pipes. Most likely, it is full of sediment, and thorough cleaning is needed. Sometimes, chemical cleaners can help to remove residue.
If the water pressure is low throughout the house, the issue is more complex, and the help of a plumber might be needed. The problem causing low water pressure in the house may be a broken pressure regulating valve, and in most cases, it must be replaced or repaired.
You can find more information about leaks, drainage, and other common plumbing problems from a plumber in your area, but if you notice an issue, don’t wait to call.