<strong>Common Plumbing Issues </strong>
Common Plumbing Issues
Homeowners Face
Plumbing problems can be annoying and frustrating. Some require the expertise of a professional plumber, but others can be easily fixed with a little DIY work.
A clogged drain or toilet can be caused by hair, soap scum, and other debris. A leaking faucet can waste water and increase your utility bills.
Clogged Drains
A clogged drain or pipe is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. These problems can result in low water pressure, backed up waste systems, and even damage to the house or sewer lines. If you notice that your sinks, tubs, or showers drain slower than usual, or that they gurgle when you turn on the water, it’s time for a professional drain cleaning. Blocked drains in Adelaide sometimes are easier to fix with the help of a plumber.
It is possible to prevent clogs by making sure that only water and waste are going down your drains. This includes ensuring that food waste, baby wipes, and other items are put in the trash rather than the drain.
Heavy rainfall and storms can also cause clogs by washing leaves and other debris into drains and sewer lines. Taking care of these problems quickly can help avoid serious damage and expensive repairs. If you suspect that a problem is occurring, start by checking the lowest fixtures in your home, such as toilets.
Leaky Pipes
One of the most serious plumbing problems is leaking pipes. They can cause significant damage to your home and lead to high water bills. According to the EPA, leaky residential pipes waste around 90 gallons of water every day. If you are noticing puddles or damp areas in your home it is important to contact a plumber right away.
Leaky pipes are caused by corrosion of the pipes due to imbalances in the mineral content and PH balance of your water. They may also be the result of improper pipe laying and installation in your home.
Leaking pipes can be difficult to detect and fix. Turn off your water and mark the location of the leak. Put on some latex or nitrile gloves and use epoxy putty to seal the leak. If the leak is located in a joint, you can tighten the joints with pipe clamps. For a larger leak, you may need to cut out the affected section of pipe and solder in new sections.
Low Water Pressure
When a home experiences low water pressure, it could be due to clogged drains or a problem with the plumbing pipes. A plumber can use a water pressure gauge to check the flow rate of water in the home and determine whether it is time for piping replacement.
A common culprit is calcium buildup in the pipes. A plumber can use a vinegar solution to clear the blockages and restore the water pressure. Other issues can include aerators that are clogged with mineral or dirt buildup, and the shut-off valves to the water meter or main house line might not be open all the way.
It is also possible that the branch lines in the piping are not large enough to accommodate the demand of water-consuming fixtures, which should be enlarged by a professional plumber. These issues are not typically serious, and they are easy for a plumber to diagnose and fix. On the other hand, a leaky pipe can be more complicated to identify and repair.
Running Toilets
Like a dripping faucet, a running toilet is both an annoying nuisance and an expensive waste of water. In fact, a single running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons per day!
A toilet that continuously runs can also cause water damage to your floor and walls, leading to costly repairs. A plumber can help repair or replace the toilet’s flapper valve or fill tube to stop this problem.
A common cause of a constantly running toilet is a worn-out flapper valve. This plug controls how much water enters the tank and overflows into the toilet bowl. A professional can replace the flapper or install a new flush handle to help prevent this issue. In addition, if the flapper valve isn’t sealing properly, a simple adjustment can fix it. To do so, remove the handle from the tank and loosen or tighten the screw to lower the float arm. You can also adjust the height of many fill valves by removing the cap and adjusting the clip that holds the refill tube in place.