Routine plumbing maintenance and timely repairs are two of the best ways to keep your plumbing system in good working condition. Putting off plumbing repairs can have catastrophic consequences not just for the system but for your home and your wallet. Here are six great reasons to get those repairs done right away.
1. Water Conservation
A single leaky faucet might not seem like a big deal, but it can waste several gallons of water or more every month. If you’ve got more than one leaky faucet, a running toilet, or bigger leaks throughout your home, you could be looking at a substantially higher water bill and a lot of lost water. Fix that leak now to minimize the loss and save your water bill.
2. Mold and Mildew
You might not notice visible mold and mildew at first, but you might smell it. That distinctive “damp” odor is a sign that something is amiss. Mold and mildew can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other potential health issues and can cause damage to your home. Controlling moisture is vital to controlling the growth of mold and mildew, so if you’ve got a leak, tackle it right away. Your home and health will thank you.
3. Extensive repairs
Water loss, mold, and mildew aren’t the only consequences of ignoring plumbing problems. You can also end up with minor plumbing problems becoming major plumbing problems. A minor leak can lead to a major leak. A small spot of damage on a pipe can lead to a burst pipe, for example, or slowed drain can lead to a clogged drain. You’ll still have to face repairs, and they could end up being bigger and more serious repairs. It’s best to get them addressed by professional plumbers as soon as possible.
4. Structural Damage
Depending on where a leak is located, water can wreak havoc on your home. Drywall can rot, wood can buckle, and mold and mildew can grow out of control. A small leak is much simpler and easier to repair than gutting your home, repairing underlying structures, and replacing critical elements.
5. Infestations
Vermin might not be at the top of your list when it comes to concerns about water leaks. However, bugs, rodents, and other pests are attracted to any water source, which means your plumbing problem can become a pest problem if you’re not careful. Keep those mice, rats, and roaches at bay by calling a plumber right away.
6. Premature Fixture Failure
A constant drip-drip-drip can take a heavy toll on your faucet and other fixtures over time. Even if you’re not actively using those fixtures, the leak or other issue is causing a lot of wear and tear, which will ultimately shorten the lifespan of your plumbing system and could lead to premature failure.
Managing plumbing problems promptly can help minimize disruptions to your household, keep your water running when you need it, and protect one of your biggest investments: your home. Contact a professional plumber to ensure your pipes and fixtures flow smoothly and your plumbing system operates as it should.
