Plumbing problems occur in all forms and scales. They can range from minor issues such as a leaking faucet to something as complex as a sewer system backing up. While a minor leak may seem like a negligible problem, not fixing it in time can increase the risk of water damage to your property.
Knowing the most common plumbing problems and the ways to avoid them can help you ward off damage to your home. Here is a list of 6 most common plumbing issues and tips for avoiding them.
- Clogged Drains
Drains mostly clog when oil, grease, and food particles are poured into the sink. Once you have a clogged drain, you should hire the services of a professional plumber to fix it.
The problem can be avoided by preventing grease, oil, fat, and food debris from entering the drain. It is also recommended to clear the drains regularly using a drain snake or a plunger.
- Clogged Toilets
A clogged toilet will prevent the toilet from flushing normally. The water can flow back up and sometimes overflow. The problem is typically caused when a non-dissolvable item has been flushed down the toilet. It is suggested to use the following tips to prevent toilet clogs:
- Avoid flushing tampons, sanitary pads, or cotton balls
- Make lesser use of toilet paper
- Keep the lid closed
You should also make sure kids don’t drop toys or other items into the toilet.
- Leaking Faucets & Pipes
Leaking faucets are not just inconveniences, they can also cost you money. Having leaking pipes can increase the risk of causing significant damage to your property. Dripping faucets are often caused by:
- A damaged or worn-out O-ring
- Age
It is recommended to turn your faucets slowly to slow down the wear on the washer. You should also avoid applying too much pressure when turning a faucet.
It can be harder to prevent leaking pipes. It is important to keep an eye out for minor drops and moisture to ensure timely repairs are performed.
- Clogged Shower & Bath
Shower and bath drains almost always get clogged by soap scum and hair. You can clear the block using a drain snake or plunger. You may also consider using vinegar and baking soda to dissolve the clog.
Installing an effective drain guard can help prevent most of the hair from getting into the drain. It is further recommended to wash down the drains regularly.
- Water Heater Problems
Water heater problems usually occur due to a faulty pilot light, a thermostat that has been set too low, or sediment build-up in the tank. It is recommended to have licensed plumbers handle gas pipes. With electric water heaters, burnt-out heating elements are a common cause.
You can avoid water heater issues by using the following steps:
- Periodically flushing out sediment in the tank
- Carefully insulating water heaters
- Regularly test the temperature-pressure relief valve
- Maintain a clean water heater space
- Shower Issues
A non-working shower is one of the most common plumbing problems. The problem can be related to the shower head, water pressure, or the connected pipes. Sometimes, the issue is caused by a problematic heat transfer plate. It is best to seek professional help and not handle the issue yourself. You can void most shower problems by keeping the shower clean.
So, these are some of the most common plumbing issues. It is recommended to hire the services of a licensed, insured, and bonded plumbing company to keep your plumbing systems well-maintained and serviced on time.
