How well do you know your home’s plumbing? Did you know that a household leak can waste about 180 gallons a week, which is about the amount of water necessary for more than 300 loads of laundry?
This is why it’s important for you to get to know your plumbing and know what plumbing problems you should watch for. Keep reading to find out about the common plumbing issues.
1. Low Water Pressure
Do you notice that your shower is just a trickle? This may be simply a blocked or dirty showerhead but could be a sign of something more serious.
There could a leak in your home, or if you have city water, someone else’s house down the street. There could also be a blockage or internal corrosion of your pipes.
Try fixing the showerhead first to see if that helps. If not, you may need plumbing repair.
2. Dripping Faucet
This is a pretty common problem, and may not be a big deal unless your monthly water bills are increasing. Having a leaky faucet typically means you need to replace the tap washer. It could also be a damaged valve.
3. Running Toilets
Having a toilet run consistently can waste a lot of water. Some of the main reasons your toilets may run non-stop include worn out flush valves, corroded toilet handles, refill tube issues, or issues with the flapper chains.
4. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can be messy and smelly, and unfortunately, they can be a pretty common issue. Make sure you have strainers in both your kitchen sink and shower to help stop hair and larger debris from going down the drain. You should also never pour oil down your kitchen sink.
You may need to clean out the filters if your system has one (it would most likely be in the floor).
If you have a clog, try using some drain cleaner first.
5. Plumbing Problems with the Water Heater
It’s important to maintain your water heater to ensure it can provide enough heat. When the water no longer gets warm enough, you may need to check the pilot light if your heater is gas.
However, other issues include loose electrical connections, heating element failures, corrosion in the system, or you may simply have the wrong size water heater.
You may need someone to inspect your plumbing and heating to make sure your water and home stay warm.
6. Leaking Hose Bib
Don’t forget to check the outside of your home. If you do not disconnect the hose, from your hose bib, the water can freeze, expand, and spit inside the pipes.
Water will seep through any cracks. You should always disconnect the water supply to the hose bib before winter.
Keep Your House Dry
It’s important to know about these plumbing problems and what to do to fix them. If you are unsure, you should hire a professional. Don’t let leaks go for too long because they can cause larger problems, like mold.
Want to learn more about your home? Keep reading our Home and Garden section to see ways to care for your home both inside and out.
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