When not dealt with in a timely manner, plumbing issues can really disrupt your day-to-day life and can end up being very expensive. Issues such as a leaky tap or a clogged drain are easy to ignore, but they can turn into something much more serious. If you know how to diagnose and repair these problems, you can save a lot of time, money, and headaches.
In this article, we share 10 common plumbing issues and resolutions for homeowners. So, without further ado, here are our top plumbing tips for anyone wanting to maintain their plumbing rather than leave the work up to a professional.
1. Dripping tap
One of these surprise plumbing issues may be a dripping tap. Most likely, it is the leak that accompanies worn-out parts such as washers, valve seats, or O-rings. These parts can eventually wear out through normal use and mineral buildup. This not only wastes a lot of water, costing you heavy utility bills, but can further lead to water damage to surroundings, and without timely intervention, mould may develop.
Solution
If your tap drips, shut off the water! Take the tap apart and look for wear on the washers or O-rings. Repair or replace the damaged parts, reassemble the tap and turn the water back on once you think it is dry and the drips stop.
2. Low water pressure
Low water pressure is a common problem, possibly caused by clogged tap aerators, partly closed valves, or leaks in the pipes. For example, if calcification builds up over time in your home’s plumbing, this can affect the function of taps and showerheads, making things like washing dishes or taking a shower take longer than necessary. The cause of low water pressure must be addressed to recover regular flow from the taps at home or be able to use any of your plumbing fixtures without a problem.
Solution
Clean tap aerators to remove sediment and ensure they are not clogged. Check that the main water valve is fully open. If low water pressure persists, inspect pipes for leaks or blockages and consult a plumber if necessary to resolve the issue effectively.
3. Clogged sink
A common household problem is a clogged sink, which usually occurs when grease, food particles, or soap scum starts collecting in the drainpipe. Once they accumulate enough, this can block a path and cause a draining slowdown or even backwater. This may not only affect the nature of your sink but could also lead to bad smells in the pipe and even flooding of dirty water (categorised as black water), making fixing a clogged drain mandatory to prevent more severe plumbing issues.
Solution
If you have a clogged sink, try using a plunger to loosen up whatever is jamming it in place. If the plunger does not do its job, remove the trap under your sink and clean it out of any visible debris. To clear a persistent clog, you can use a snake or chemical cleaner to push through the debris and help open up your line.
4. Water heater issues
Water heaters experiencing problems, such as insufficient hot water, strange knocking, banging or booming noises, or visible leaks, all have the power to inconvenience daily routines and raise energy costs. Poor heating elements and sediment buildup on head components will usually cause the problem. You must keep in mind that a water heater needs to be maintained and repaired on time for efficient working. Taking care of these issues early on can stop them from growing into something more serious and impact performance.
Solution
Flush the water heater to clear out any buildup in the softener that might eventually restrict performance. The thermostat may malfunction, so you must check and correct its settings. Examine the tank and connections for leaks or strange sounds. In addition, swap out the device or find skilled assistance if you have ongoing challenges.
5. Running toilet
A running toilet is a common plumbing problem that keeps water flowing into the commode tank even after it is not used. It can be because of a bad flapper, wrong float level, or malfunctioning fill valve. This continuous water flow not only increases your utility bill but is also annoying and extremely wasteful. This is a common problem that requires identification of the issue and eradication to avoid wasting water regularly while still being able to benefit from your bathroom.
Solution
Inspect the flapper and replace it if it is damaged or worn out. Make sure the fill valve shuts off properly by adjusting the float. If that still does not work, check the fill valve and replace it if necessary to stop the running.
6. Burst pipe
A burst pipe is a major plumbing emergency that always causes significant water damage and flooding. Freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or pipe corrosion are common causes. Immediate action is necessary to minimise damage and repair the pipe. Proper insulation and pressure management are crucial for preventing future incidents and protecting your home from significant water-related issues.
Solution
Turn off the main water supply and drain the affected pipes to minimise flooding. Contact a plumber to repair or replace the burst pipe. Insulate exposed pipes and regulate water pressure to reduce the risk of future bursts and protect your home from potential water damage.
7. Leaky pipe
The plumbing problem that tops everybody’s list of concerns is leaking pipes –water can damage property, cost more utility bills, and promote the growth of hazardous mould. Reasons may include faulty joints, pipe damage or corrosion, and even high water pressure. By acting quickly, you can reduce the amount of harm done and lessen the extent of repairs you will need. By inspecting your plumbing regularly and getting repairs done when needed, you can help prevent leaks in your pipes.
Solution
Find the leak and immediately shut off the water supply. Use pipe repair tape or a clamp as a temporary solution. Replace the piece of pipe for a more permanent fix. Professional repair is recommended when there is a serious problem, like multiple leaks or the slab moving away from the building.
8. Burst pipe
A burst pipe is a major plumbing emergency that always causes significant water damage and flooding. Freezing temperatures, high water pressure, or pipe corrosion are common causes. Immediate action is necessary to minimise damage and repair the pipe. Proper insulation and pressure management are crucial for preventing future incidents and protecting your home from significant water-related issues.
Solution
Turn off the main water supply and drain the affected pipes to minimise flooding. Contact a plumber to repair or replace the burst pipe. Insulate exposed pipes and regulate water pressure to reduce the risk of future bursts and protect your home from potential water damage.
9. Blocked shower drain
A clogged shower drain is usually the cause of accumulated hair, soap scum or even some worse gunk in the pipe. Slow drainage, water pooling in the shower and even foul smells can all occur when this blockage gets out of hand. To keep your shower drain working, you need to take care of it by doing regular maintenance. If a blockage is addressed as soon as it arises, the shower can be kept clean and unobstructed easily by anyone.
Solution
Unscrew the shower drain cover and use a drain snake or hair removal tools to remove the blockage. Finally, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, then flush it with hot water to clear away stubborn grime and keep your disposal smelling fresh. Cleansing your sink every now and then might help keep those drains clean.
9. Sewer backup
A sewer backup smells, can create health risks, and may even damage your home. This problem is typically due to obstructions in the main sewer line or damage in the sewer system. It is important for professional services to be called in almost immediately so that the backup can be corrected and any other problems like a normal clog. Regular maintenance and good waste disposal can reduce the chances of sewer backups and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
Solution
Refrain from using plumbing fixtures with problems and fix shortages. Have a professional plumber look at the sewer line and clean it up. Maintaining your systems and disposing of waste properly with the help of experienced experts can prevent future backups, prevent major problems from occurring, and stop your plumbing system from breaking down.
10. Faulty garbage disposal
A malfunctioning garbage disposal will not only jam but can also smell rancid and produce an awful noise when in operation. This could happen if food remains jammed in the machine, if the machine’s mechanical systems fail, or if there is a lack of regular maintenance. Resolving these issues is essential for the smooth operation of the bin. Good maintenance and proper repair can make the appliance work efficiently and help in the kitchen.
Solution
Always unplug the disposal before any repairs. Turn off the disposal and use a hex key to free jams by turning it manually. To deodorise and clean the disposal, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the drain. If problems continue, replace the unit or contact a professional to have it repaired.
Conclusion
Plumbing issues, though often minor, can lead to significant problems if left unresolved. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are crucial for avoiding costly damage and ensuring your plumbing system functions smoothly. From dripping taps to burst pipes, understanding common plumbing problems and their solutions can help you address issues effectively.
For expert assistance with any plumbing concerns, trust SD Plumbing. Our team of professionals is ready to provide reliable solutions and exceptional service to keep your home’s plumbing in top shape. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience top-notch plumbing care.
