Plumbing problems, big or small, are a common nuisance that can impact your daily living. Not only are they inconvenient, but—if left unchecked—they can also lead to substantial damage and major repair costs.
However, you can prevent these major household plumbing problems with a little bit of knowledge and a proactive approach.
Keep reading to learn some useful plumbing tips and tricks. But first, let’s identify the top five household plumbing issues you should keep an eye on.
5 Most Common Household Plumbing Problems
1. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common household plumbing issues. This problem usually occurs when food debris, grease, hair, or other foreign objects build up in the pipes over time. This leads to slow or blocked drains.
Preventing clogged drains is as simple as being mindful of what goes down the drain. Use drain strainers to catch debris, avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, and periodically clean your drains with a mixture of vinegar and hot water.
2. Leaky Faucets and Pipes
The persistent “drip-drip” sound of a leaky faucet is more than just a minor annoyance to the ears. It can lead to substantial water waste and high water bills. Leaks often occur due to worn-out components.
Regularly inspecting your faucets and pipes can help detect any leaks early. Remember, it's easier and cheaper to replace a worn-out washer than to deal with water damage caused by a leaking pipe.
3. Low Water Pressure
Everyone knows how it feels trying to shower or wash dishes with low water pressure. It’s almost better to clean in a rainstorm. (We don’t advise this, though.)
The issue of low water pressure often arises from clogged aerators on faucets, sediment build-up in pipes, or more complex problems in the water main.
To avoid this, clean your faucet aerators regularly and consider a water softening solution if hard water is causing pipe blockages.
4. Running Toilets
Did you know ... A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day!
The usual culprits for this are worn out flappers, improper float height, or a fill tube issue. Annually checking the toilet's components can help you spot and resolve any potential problems before they become serious.
5. Water Heater Issues
From cold showers to high energy costs, problems with your water heater can lead to several inconveniences. These problems can stem from sediment build-up, improper temperature settings, or a failing heating element.
Regularly flushing the water heater tank and checking the thermostat can go a long way in ensuring its longevity.
Household Plumbing Tips & Tricks
Now, let's consider some general household plumbing tips and tricks to help you avoid these and other plumbing issues.
Preventive Maintenance is Key
Proactive maintenance is the best way to keep your plumbing system healthy. This includes regular inspections, timely replacements, and minor repairs—before they morph into bigger issues that can cause damage.
Know the Basics
Understanding the basics of your plumbing system can help in early detection and simple DIY repairs. However, remember that although it's beneficial to know how to handle a plunger or replace a faucet washer, not every job can be a DIY job.
Use Tools—Not Chemicals—for Clogs
Chemical drain cleaners might seem like an easy fix, but they can be harmful to your pipes. Instead, use a plunger or a plumber's snake to clear the blockages.
Don't Ignore the Small Issues
A dripping faucet, a running toilet, or a slow drain may not seem like pressing issues. But when you ignore them, they can lead to bigger problems and higher repair costs.
Get Professional Help When Needed
Last but not least, do not hesitate to call in a professional when necessary. Professional plumbers have the experience and the tools to address the problem effectively and to ensure it doesn't happen again.
Contact That Plumber for Help
With a little bit of knowledge and on-going preventative maintenance, you can prevent most common household plumbing problems. But when you need a professional, contact That Plumber. We can assist with a variety of household plumbing issues.