Common Plumbing Issues in a House

Old houses have lots of character – but they can also have plenty of plumbing issues. From a dripping faucet here to a clogged drain there, these problems can lead to expensive damage if left unchecked. 

Knowing the most common plumbing problems can help you prepare and avoid them. Read on to learn more about dripping faucets, burst pipes and clogged toilets! 

Dripping Faucets 

If you ignore a dripping faucet, it will eventually cost you big. Every drop of water that drips down the drain wastes money and increases your water bill. This is why it’s important to fix the problem as soon as you notice a leaky faucet. 

You can start by removing the handles, packing nut, and stem to find the source of the leak. Make sure you cover the sink drain with a rag or towel to avoid water gushing out when you remove the parts. After removing the pieces, clean them with white vinegar. This will prevent water sediments from corroding the faucet and causing future leaks. 

Other common plumbing problems include clogged drains and toilets, and leaky pipes. By following some simple steps, you can minimize these issues and save money in the long run. 

Leaky Pipes 

The piping in your home runs through walls and ceilings to get to sinks, toilets, and other fixtures. Leaks in these pipes can lead to a host of household problems including mold growth, water stains, and sagging walls and floors. 

Leaky pipes are usually caused by worn out or old seals around water connectors. However, incorrect plumbing work by previous owners or even a DIY project can also cause leaky pipes. 

Leaking pipes shouldn't be ignored as they can lead to structural damage and high water bills. If you notice a wet floor or dripping ceiling, shut off the water supply immediately and call in a plumber. 

Frozen Pipes 

Frozen pipes are a major plumbing problem that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage and potential health issues. If you notice a frozen pipe, turn off your water and apply heat to the affected area. This can be done with hot water, a hair dryer, or even a space heater. You can also open vanity and cabinet doors to help warm air reach the pipes. 

Frozen pipes are most likely to occur in areas that don’t receive much warmth, such as behind exterior walls or in an unheated crawl space. This is why it’s important to walk around your home, looking for damp drywall or ceiling rings and unusual odors 

that may indicate there’s a broken pipe somewhere. It’s also important to insulate your pipes and to be mindful of freezing weather conditions.

Clogged Drains 

Clogged drains happen when food scraps, hair, soap scum, grease or other debris build up in the drain trap. Sometimes, plunging and the use of chemical drain cleaners can dislodge stubborn clogs. If these at-home remedies fail to clear the clog, it’s time to call in a professional plumber to prevent the problem from worsening. 

Knowing what causes clogged drains can help you prevent them from happening in the first place. The best plumber in Melbourne may tell you that something like simple maintenance steps such as using a drain guard, mesh strainer or stopper in the bathroom and throwing away cooking grease properly can help keep your home’s drains running smoothly. Multiple slow or clogged drains throughout your house can indicate a bigger issue, like a clog in the main sewer line. This can lead to sewage backup and serious damage to your pipes. 

Sewer Backups 

Sewer lines are in place to carry waste and sewage away from your home, but if they become blocked or breached, the consequences can be disastrous. Old homes, increased rain, and improper disposal of items like cooking grease can all cause sewer lines to clog. Having your pipes regularly inspected and clogs cleared can help to prevent major issues down the road. 

If you are experiencing multiple slow drains, gurgling noises or unusual odors, call in a plumber for an assessment before the problem gets worse. If your home is in a low-lying area, it may be wise to speak with a insurance advisor about adding a Sewer Backup Endorsement to your home insurance policy. This can help to cover the cost of clean-up if you are ever faced with unwanted sewage or water damage. 

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