No matter what steps you take to protect your home’s pipes and fixtures, you will most likely have to deal with at least a few plumbing issues over the years. Here is a quick look at four of the most common plumbing problems and some steps that you can take to fix them.
Dripping Faucets and Fixtures
A leaky faucet or fixture might not seem like a serious problem, but you could be losing more water than you realize. A single faucet that drips a few times a minute can waste thousands of gallons of water every year. Luckily, most leaky faucets can easily be fixed by replacing the O-ring or seat washer. If you have a ball faucet, then you might need to take out the old assembly and install a replacement kit.
Slow Drains
Slow drains are almost always the result of food debris in the pipes. Fats, oils, vegetable trimmings, coffee grounds, and other scraps should never be rinsed down your sink. In addition to making your sinks drain slowly, those materials will also create unpleasant odors. Most minor clogs can be taken care of by removing and thoroughly cleaning the trap. You might need to use a plunger or snake if the clog is deeper in the system.
Completely Clogged Drains
If multiple sinks or showers are backed up at the same time, then you probably have a clogged sewer line. When that takes place, you should immediately contact a plumber for professional drain cleaning services. A clogged sewage line can severely damage the rest of the pipes and eventually cause a slab leak. Unfortunately, those types of clogs usually can’t be dislodged with chemical drain openers and clog removers. Your plumber will need to use specialized tools to get rid of the clog for drain cleaning and prevent further damage from taking place.
Weak Water Pressure
Very few situations are as aggravating as trying to take a shower with weak water pressure. This issue is usually caused by buildup in the water heater, and you might want to call a professional if you aren’t comfortable working on that appliance. In order to remove the buildup, you will need to drain the water heater and clean out the basin with a descaling solution. If there is quite a bit of sediment in your water, then you should consider investing in a whole-home filtration system or water softener.
When it comes to your home’s plumbing system, you must never ignore any unusual warning signs. Many of these issues can easily be taken care of as long as you catch them early on.
