Plumbing issues are some of the most expensive problems that a homeowner can encounter, particularly when they cause water damage. Addressing plumbing issues quickly can prevent them from causing extensive damage and requiring costly repairs. However, you need to know the warning signs of plumbing problems so you can fix them before they get out of hand. Here is a look at some of the top signs of plumbing problems.
A Toilet That Is Constantly Running
If your toilet is constantly running-even when it is not being used-it is a sign that something is wrong. Some homeowners take their time getting a running toilet fixed because they believe it is not a major problem. However, a toilet that is always running can lead to high water bills and is a strong indicator that something in your home’s plumbing system is not operating the way it should.
Poor Water Pressure
When taking a shower, you should feel a steady stream of water coming out of the shower head. If you feel a weak stream of water, there is a good chance that your building is experiencing low water pressure, which usually indicates plumbing issues. Because there are so many potential causes of poor water pressure, it is important to have a plumber inspect it.
Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet is more than an annoyance; it is your home’s way of telling you that it could be experiencing a serious plumbing problem. Faucets often drip or leak because of problems with the valve. Any time there is a problem with one valve in a building, it is prudent to have all of them checked out to uncover the cause of the problem. In addition, dripping faucets can cause your water bill to skyrocket.
Drainage Problems
If the drains in your home are not working properly, it may indicate a plumbing problem. For example, a drain that has a bad smell may be clogged with debris or food. Clogs can also prevent drains from emptying fully or cause them to empty more slowly than usual. Either way, this is something that should be checked out by a professional.
Although minor clogs, such as those caused by built-up soap scum or hair, are fairly easy to resolve, other drainage problems can be more serious. For example, when all of the pipes throughout a building are slow to drain, there could be a clog in the main sewer line, which is considered a plumbing emergency.
Dripping Pipes
Dripping pipes are something that you should never ignore because they can eventually burst. This can lead to problems such as damaged flooring in your home as well as the buildup of toxic mold and mildew, which can be expensive to repair. Any time a pipe is dripping, you should call a plumber right away to repair or replace it to avoid further damage.
A Gurgling Toilet
If your toilet is making a gurgling sound, there could be an underlying issue such as a blocked sewer line or a blocked vent stack.
A Screeching Noise
If you hear a screeching noise when you turn on one or more plumbing fixtures in your building, it could be an indication that there is air in the pipes. This is often the result of some type of problem with the plumbing system in general and should be looked at right away.
Rattling Pipes
Pipes should be fairly quiet, apart from the sound of water rushing through them when they are in use. However, if you notice a rattling sound in your pipes, especially immediately after turning off a faucet, this could be a water hammer. This is a problem that can arise when the flow of water changes direction or stops abruptly, forming a shockwave that causes loose pipes to rattle. This may be due to flooded air chambers within the plumbing system, high water pressure or poorly secured pipes.
Brown Spots on the Ceiling
If you notice any brown spots on your ceiling, it could mean that water is leaking. It is essential to have a plumber identify the source of the leak and fix it prior to repairing the ceiling.
Unexpectedly High Water Bills
There are many reasons your water bill may increase, such as a rate hike or increased consumption. However, if your water bill is rising and there is no obvious reason, there is a good chance that your plumbing system has a leak that you cannot see. Therefore, it is essential to contact a plumber to identify the source of the leak and correct it.
Reach Out to the Professional Washington, D.C. Plumbers
If you notice any of these common signs of plumbing problems, reach out to the experienced Washington, D.C. plumbers at O’Connor Plumbing. Our trained professionals can identify the source of your plumbing problem and find an effective solution. Contact us to learn more about our residential and commercial plumbing services.