Let’s face it: Plumbing issues are a nightmare, especially if you’re a homeowner. The sight of leaky pipes and water flowing out of places is a true horror. Besides. while some issues may be caused by aged fixtures or typical wear & tear on plumbing devices, others may be affected by how specific structures are used and managed.
You only know how much you rely on plumbing once something goes wrong. A dripping faucet here, a slow drain there — it’s typical to experience plumbing issues as your home matures.
While some can be sorted using DIY or other simple tricks, others turn out to be risky and must be done by professionals. Knowing the most frequent plumbing problems and remedies lets you know when to reach for your tool belt and call a plumber in Forest Lake.
Common Plumbing Problems You May Encounter
Here are some of the most common problems you will encounter and information on why they occur and what can be done about them.
Clogged Bath or Shower Drain
Hair and soap buildup frequently clog bath and shower drains and slow-draining bathroom sinks. Using a plunger or a plumber’s snake might be necessary to remove the clog.
Additionally, vinegar and baking soda can be used to remove obstructions. If the problem is not addressed, it will likely worsen over time. The problem can be avoided or lessened by purchasing a drain guard to trap the hair.
Faulty Water Heater
This issue might only be noticed once you shower and the water suddenly turns chilly. A water heater might fail due to a variety of factors. If the pilot light goes out, you must relight it. Sediment buildup in the tank might also cause issues. Another possibility is that the thermostat is to blame.
Unless it’s anything as simple as the pilot light needing to be relit, you’ll want a professional to inspect, maintain, and repair your water heater.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure might be the reason of your faucet trickling rather than gushing. This is a common problem in older homes. Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common of which are leaking pipes that have cracked, deteriorated, or degraded over time.
Poor water pressure in your shower is most likely due to a buildup of silt and mineral deposits on the aerators. To clean the aerator, immerse it in vinegar. If the problem is with the shower, replace it or soak it in vinegar.
Sewer System Backup
Backups of sewer systems are a nightmare. They can be smelly, disgusting, unsanitary, inconvenient, and costly to repair. This is most likely your problem if you have many drains and toilets that need to be fixed and a strong odor of human waste.
The location of the blockage determines who is responsible for resolving the problem. If it is on your land, it is your responsibility. If it’s on a public road, your water company is responsible for repairing it.
Now You Know!
These concerns may be avoided and quickly resolved before they become big problems. Be mindful of any warning signs your plumbing may provide about potential difficulties. When you need assistance, contact Alexander Plumbing & Gas, and we will assist you in getting your plumbing system back up and running.