Your plumbing is an integral part of your home. Of course, plumbing has been in existence for thousands of years. It’s estimated wells were commonplace as long as 12,000 years ago. Of course, the systems today are much more modern, allowing plumbing to be largely forgotten – until something goes wrong.
That’s why you need to be aware of the most common plumbing issues and be vigilant for them. It will help you to react quickly and effectively.
Clogs
Plumbing pipes are a fixed diameter and are designed for wastewater and human waste products only. As soon as you start putting other things into your drains you are risking a clog. At first, a clog will simply slow your drain down. But, as the clog builds it will eventually block the pipe completely. Then, the wastewater and associated products will be forced back up the pipes and overflow into your bathroom. Considering wastewater is hazardous that’s not a desirable scenario.
Fortunately, you can monitor the speed at which your appliances drain and, you can invest in a pipe inspection camera. This slides into the pipes, allowing you to see what is inside them and spot any clogs before they become an issue.
All you have to do is inspect the pipes periodically.
Leaks
Waste pipes are generally made of plastic which means they don’t corrode. However, they can be damaged by your feet or the movement of the earth. This can result in them cracking and leaking.
Equally, your plumbing supply pipes can leak. The most common place for this to occur is at the joints but corrosion can occur anywhere.
Leaks mean the surrounding area becomes damp, attracting mould and pests. Damp can also cause wood to rot and other finishings in your house to disintegrate. Left long enough it can have an effect on the structural stability of your home.
Low Water Pressure
This is often the result of leaks as the water isn’t going where it should be. Low water pressure can also be the result of a failing pressure regulator or an issue with the water board. For example, if they are doing work in the area your pressure is likely to be down.
That’s why you should check with your neighbours first to see if their pressure is low, suggesting a water board issue.
Running Toilets
This is similar to a leak but can cost you a considerable amount of money. A running toilet usually happens when the float valve is damaged or the diaphragm at the base of the cistern isn’t sealing properly. The easiest solution is to replace the mechanism inside the cistern and stop wasting water.
You may want professional help to do this.
Water Heater Failure
Your water heater works in adverse conditions, it has all the ingredients to encourage rust. For this reason, many of them use sacrificial anodes. This is metal that is targeted and rusts instead of the heater. The anode must be replaced regularly or your heater element will start to fail. That gives you cold showers and intermittent hot water. There is nothing pleasant about that.