Your home’s plumbing is probably not something you give much thought to until it fails to work as it should. Often, seemingly minor problems can turn into disasters. The key is knowing what to look for and what to do to address this issue.
Below are five of the most common home plumbing problems to look out for in Saint Paul, MN. This article will explain the potential causes of these issues and what you should do about them. Staying on top of plumbing problems is the best way to keep your home safe and avoid major catastrophes.
1. Dripping Faucets
One of the biggest home plumbing issues people encounter is leaky faucets. These can be a major nuisance, but they can result in much higher water bills than you realize. One drip per second is 86,000 drops, or more than five gallons, of wasted water each day.
Fixes to dripping faucets can be as simple as changing out O-rings in the fixture. If you see signs of corrosion, you might consider swapping out the entire faucet. Habitual dripping faucets can be a sign of high water pressure and should be addressed by a professional.
2. Clogged Drains
The accumulation of hair is the most common culprit of slow-draining or clogged pipes. Toilets are often due to jammed toilet paper or other items.
Plungers are a good place to start. If pressure is not enough to loosen the clog, you can also try snaking the drain with a dedicated tool. Chemical drain cleaners can be effective against things like hair but are expensive (and can be hit or miss).
To avoid clogs, be sure you are only flushing disposable materials down toilets. Install hair-catch drains in showers and bathroom sinks. If the drains remain clogged after these DIY attempts, it is best to contact a local plumber.
3. Low Water Pressure
There are a few possible causes of low water pressure. It could be external to your home, such as a water main break.
Buildup in your pipes is another main cause of low water pressure. Galvanized pipes are especially susceptible to coercion buildup, but minerals and sediment can collect in any pipe. If you are experiencing low pressure in only one faucet, first check the fixture for any issues.
Finally, cracks in water lines can cause low water pressure. Check underneath and throughout your home for any signs of significant leaks.
4. Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes can be a minor nuisance, although they should not be ignored. It is–at best–a sign that the pipe needs to be repaired or replaced.
At worst, you could be on the first of a major leak that can cause significant damage to your home. A plumber can fix leaking pipes and should be able to tell you if more ominous circumstances are causing the issue.
5. Sewer Backup
Signs of sewer backup range from unpleasant odors to visible wastewater coming up into sinks or toilets. This can be due to clogs or more serious problems with your sewer or septic tank. Sewer backups are not only unpleasant, they can expose you to harmful bacteria and viruses.
Attempting to unclog lines with a plunger will not hurt, but sewer backups rarely resolve on their own. Call a plumber as soon as you notice this issue to get it resolved.
Find Home Plumbing Services Near You
Now that you know the five main home plumbing problems to look out for, you can work to resolve the issue. Remember, if the problem persists, it is best to call a professional before things worsen.
Mr Plumbing and Drains is a fully-licensed residential and commercial plumbing service in Saint Paul. We will leverage our years of experience to address any plumbing problem you might have. Contact us to schedule service today.
