Problems with the plumbing system can often be completely unexpected. This makes dealing with them quite nerve-wracking.
However, there are a few things you need to know about any type of plumbing problem so you can better understand what to do in these situations and avoid unnecessary damage.
Read on to find out more!
Common reasons for the occurrence of plumbing problems
There can be several factors, but most importantly, it can be a combination of several things.
For example, there may be clogged pipes or low pressure due to hard water and the lack of a water softener.
Things like baby oil, olive oil, moisturizers, and even oil-based soap can collect in the drain and cause clogs or water to drain slowly.
Pouring bleach or other corrosive substances, even drain cleaners, can damage your plumbing system over time, causing clogs, the formation of dangerous fumes, leaks, or even a burst pipe.
It may surprise you, but using the toilet for waste disposal is also a common reason. As a rule of thumb: Things like candy wrappers, rubber gloves or leftovers have no place in the toilet.
Whatever the reason, you need to remember one thing: to avoid water damage, costly repairs, and higher water bills, acting quickly is essential.
plumbing repairs
Burst and pipe bursts are serious problems that should never be taken lightly.
For example, it’s not just water damage and bills to consider. Various pests can also enter your home via a damaged plumbing system.
Typically, these types of problems are best resolved by a professional plumber. Even if you have the necessary tools and know your way around the house, it can still be a big risk because improper repairs can lead to even bigger problems.
That’s why it’s best to shut off the water flow from the main valve and visit the nearest licensed plumber who has the expertise and specialist equipment to reliably fix the problem.
If there is a small pipe hole or you need a short term solution to prevent your home from flooding, try installing a new coupler. But follow the rules:
- Before you start this task, remember that there are different types of glue for each type of pipe. It is therefore essential to select the right adhesive.
- Remember to prime your pipes before applying the glue. Also make sure you have purchased a suitable coupling – for either PVC or CPVC pipe types.
- Don’t try to drill intuitively if you want access to a pipe behind a wall. Drill the wall only after checking for pipes and wiring with a stud finder or endoscopic camera. Piercing wires can cause electric shock and endanger your life.
You can follow a simple rule to spot leaks: just check your water consumption in winter. If the amount is more than 3,000 gallons per person during the colder months, you may have a serious problem.
Also, you can check your water meter a few hours after no amounts have been used. If there is an increase, it is a sign that you may lose something.
Dealing with a running toilet
A constant drip from your toilet’s flush tank can make you feel crazy at midnight.
The reason for your nightmares is usually damage or broken parts (e.g. a flap, an overflow pipe or the water level). The cause is often an old, broken toilet flap, as poor quality rubber breaks down over time (or mineral deposits form due to hard water).
Whatever the reason, if the problem is not addressed immediately, it can result in water damage and additional costs related to water bills.
Fortunately, the toilet mechanism is comparatively simple, easy, and quick to repair, even by a do-it-yourselfer. However, when you need to replace the water bowl, the plumbing skills of the professionals are a must.
Fix a leaking faucet or shower head
Another common problem that almost every home stumbles upon is a leaky faucet.
Ignoring the problem will throw money down the drain and skyrocket your water bills. Worse still, it’s entirely possible that you’ll encounter a significant water damage problem.
Before proceeding with the repairs, make sure you turn off the faucet and use either a drain plug or a rag to prevent a bolt or washer from going down the drain and ruining everything.
You then need to disassemble the faucet and examine each part to determine what exactly needs to be replaced. And if you need to replace a washer or o-ring, make sure they fit snugly.
Another reason for a leaky faucet problem could be low water pressure. Therefore, the water pressure gauge should be an indispensable part of every tool box.
If the water pressure is normal, look for the problem in the faucet itself. Plumber’s tape comes in handy when you need a short-term fix.
Or if your aesthetic sense doesn’t allow you to “patch up” the faucet, head straight to a local hardware store and purchase the exact fitting gaskets or replacement parts.
A leaky showerhead can waste about 500 gallons of water annually, which is the equivalent of 60 showers. And when you add that to your water bill, it’s easy to see why leaving the problem unattended is a bad idea.
Luckily, many showerhead problems can be easily fixed by using pipe tape and a wrench to ensure a tight connection.
Why it’s best to call a licensed plumber
The best rule of thumb is to call a licensed plumber and take care of the problem right away, the first time.
You can count on them to carry out minor repairs, simple or partial conversions, maintenance work or preventive checks on your plumbing systems. However, if you lack experience, practical knowledge, legal knowledge and tools, it is much better to entrust the maintenance of your plumbing to a qualified plumber.
If you want to sell your home quickly and efficiently, working with a professional is also advisable as a proper plumbing system will only add to its market value.
Tackling home improvement maintenance projects beyond your experience can lead to plumbing disasters with extensive water damage, having to redo the job, leaking pipes (and the list goes on and on). Then it is essential to hire a plumber to make your home livable again.
Hiring a professional is a win-win solution. A professional will help minimize errors while maximizing the reliability of the results. In addition, many offer a guarantee of the quality of their work, another added benefit.
Diploma
Now that you know more about how to deal with different types of plumbing problems, you can rest assured that you will respond appropriately when they arise.
Ultimately, however, your best bet is to hire a licensed plumber who will take care of any more extensive work than replacing a toilet flap or fixing a leaking showerhead.
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