Most homeowners have dealt with a clogged drain or toilet at one time or another. While a plunger or commercial drain cleaner may fix the problem, persistent clogs can indicate a larger issue like tree roots or a broken pipe that needs to be addressed by a professional.
Other signs that it’s time to call a plumber include stains on the walls or ceiling and water that’s a strange color, such as red, yellow, or green. These are serious issues that require expert attention.
1. Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet might seem like a minor problem, but over time, it can lead to hundreds of gallons of water waste. Plus, it can encourage mold and mildew growth in your home. It’s important to call a plumber right away when you notice a dripping faucet, as they can fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
In addition, if your at-home methods don’t fix the dripping faucet, it could be a sign of a deeper plumbing issue. Plumbers will be able to use specialized tools to identify the source of the leak and repair it.
If you’re noticing an unusual smell coming from your pipes, it’s also a good idea to call a plumber immediately. This is a sign of a blocked or broken pipe that needs to be fixed before it causes further damage. A plumber will be able to check your entire plumbing system to find the source of the problem.
2. Running Toilets
A toilet that constantly runs is not only a nuisance to listen to, it can also cost you significant water waste and result in costly damage. This is a sign of a major problem and you should call your local plumber immediately to prevent further damage and avoid paying for an expensive water bill.
One of the most common causes of a running toilet is a faulty flapper. This plug seals the tank until you flush the toilet, but over time it can wear down or become damaged, allowing water to seep out of the overflow tube and into the bowl.
You can check for a worn flapper by opening the tank and looking at it. If it is completely flat or warped, then it is time to replace it.
3. Low Water Pressure
Water pressure is an important aspect of your home plumbing. It makes showers more enjoyable, washing dishes and laundry easier, and allows your appliances to work at their optimal levels.
If you notice a sudden decrease in water pressure throughout your home, it’s time to call a plumber. This is a sign that your home’s pipes are not properly sized to accommodate the amount of water you need at any given time.
A plumber can evaluate your home’s plumbing lines and determine if they are able to be cleaned out or if replacement is needed. They can also check for leaks and other problems that may be causing low water pressure. A plumber will then be able to fix the problem quickly and efficiently. They can even install a water pressure booster to solve ongoing issues.
4. Frozen Pipes
If you turn on a faucet or water fixture and only get a trickle, it is likely because of frozen pipes. This is especially true for those located in cold areas, such as the basement, crawl space, attic and exterior walls.
A frozen pipe will feel cool to the touch and could have frost or condensation on it. It may also appear misshapen or bulging in certain places. Frozen pipes that aren’t thawed can burst and cause major damage to your home.
A professional plumber will quickly identify the source of the frozen pipe and begin the thawing process. He will shut off the water at the main valve and open the faucets connected to that pipe to relieve pressure. Then, he will apply heat to the area and slowly thaw the frozen section of the pipe.
5. Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes are a major cause of water damage in homes. They can cause gallons of water to flood the home and lead to expensive repairs. Leaks can also be difficult to detect since most of your piping is hidden behind walls and under the ground. If you notice brown spots on the ceiling or bubbling paint, this is a sign that you have leaking pipes.
Leaking pipes can also cause strange sounds in your home. Banging or “water hammer” noises can indicate that your pipes are under pressure, while whistling and gurgling sounds may indicate a blockage. It is important to call a plumber right away when you hear these strange noises. They can locate the source of the problem and fix it before it gets worse. They can also make sure that your house is safe for you and your family.
6. Water Heater Issues
If you notice a smelly odor or discolored water coming from your home, this is a sign of a problem with your water heater. If not addressed quickly, this issue could lead to serious plumbing issues and even environmental concerns.
While it isn’t as dangerous as a major leak, having no hot water at all is still a major problem that should be fixed immediately. If your home’s water heater isn’t producing hot water, the cause is likely due to a faulty heating element or thermostat. You can try troubleshooting the issue by resetting the circuit breaker and replacing blown fuses, but if you’re still having no luck, call in these reliable Brisbane plumbers for hire. They’ll be able to diagnose and repair the problem quickly.
7. Backflow Issues
Backflow is a serious plumbing issue that can lead to contamination of your home’s clean water supply. It typically occurs when there are periods of low water pressure in the drain system, causing water to flow backwards through the system.
One of the first signs of backflow is discolored water. This could be a result of rust in the pipes, soil intrusion or pollutants and is a sure sign that backflow is occurring.
Other signs of backflow include water spurts, air bubbles in the water or puddles around your plumbing fixtures. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact a plumber right away. They can provide backflow testing to ensure your water is safe for drinking and other uses. They can also perform backflow repairs to fix the problem and prevent it from reoccurring.
8. Clogged Drains
When sink, tub and shower drains slow to a crawl or back up, you have a serious problem that needs immediate attention. A clogged drain usually causes foul odors and trapped air. If you’ve tried to clear the clog with a plunger and failed, it’s time to call a professional. They can use a long, flexible tool called a drain snake to dislodge troublesome clogs.
A backed-up fixture or a smell that resembles sewage is a serious issue that can expose you and your family to bacteria. Calling a plumber right away is the best way to avoid extensive and costly damage. They can also use special tools like cameras to look inside your pipes for anything causing a long-term clog. Hair, grease build-up and problems with your septic system are common culprits. They can even be caused by tree roots getting into underground systems.
9. Water Damage
If there is water damage to your home, it is time to call a plumber immediately. Not only is it unsightly, but water damage can also compromise the structure of your house as well as your personal belongings.
Water damage can be caused by a variety of things, including frozen pipes, major leaks, backups, and problems with the water main. However, the most common cause of water damage is plumbing issues.
If you notice that your water has changed colors or has a strange smell, it is important to call a plumber immediately. The longer the problem is ignored, the more damage it will cause and the more expensive it will be to fix. It is also important to note that different types of materials react to water damage differently. So, determining the age of the water damage is essential.
