Home & Real Estate

A New Homeowner’s Guide to Common Plumbing Issues

Whether you just purchased a home or have lived in it for years, there is always something that can go wrong with a home.

Owning a home comes with its own unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to plumbing.

Plumbing can cause a lot of problems for homeowners, but it is necessary for the use of a home.

If you would like to learn more about plumbing issues, then you have come to the right place. After reading this article, you will have a better understanding of plumbing issues every homeowner will face.

Keep reading to learn more!

Contents

Dripping Faucets

A dripping faucet can be caused by a number of different factors, including a broken washer, a damaged O-ring, or worn-out valves. To repair a dripping faucet, the first step is to identify the cause of the issue. Once you’ve located the issue, you will either need to replace the faulty parts or call a professional for help.

In the meantime, you can use a wrench to turn off the water supply, to avoid further damage to your pipes. It is important to fix the dripping faucet immediately, as the excess water can cause an increase in your water bills, and result in a lot of mess and damage in the long run.

Slow-Draining Sink

It’s a nuisance to experience and can quickly become a larger, more expensive problem if not taken care of immediately. The first thing to do is to check for obvious blockages such as hair, strands of fabric, and other debris in the drain. If a clog is present, you may be able to remove it with a plunger or plumber’s snake.

If the problem persists, it may be due to a more serious issue such as a busted pipe or a particular item that has become lodged in the drain. It is much better to address the issue right away than wait for it to become a bigger, more time-consuming, and expensive problem.

Clogged Bath Or Shower Drain

The most common causes of a clogged drain include hair, soap scum, and other debris. If you have tried a plunger and are still having issues, you may need to use an auger or drain snake, or a combination of both. An auger is inserted and twisted in the drain to pull out debris, while a drain snake is a long metal cable with a corkscrew device on the end that is used to break up large clogs or retrieve objects that are stuck down the drain.

For tougher clogs, an acid-based chemical cleaner may help, however, it is important to read and follow all directions when using this cleaner. Lastly, reconfiguring the pipe system may be necessary in the most difficult clog cases. This is when you may need to call in the professionals. To find a plumber in your area who does this type of job, head to Google and search “blocked drains Sydney” or whichever area you live in. Now make sure to check out some reviews and find a plumber that meets your needs and budget.

Clogged Toilet

Generally, the first step to remedy a clogged toilet is to plunge it. Plungers create a vacuum that will help pull out any clogs. If the plunger does not work, using a plumbing snake (also called an auger) is the next step. The snake is an adjustable metal rod that is inserted into the drain and twisted to break up the clog.

If these methods are ineffective, the user should contact a professional plumber for assistance. There are specialized strategies and equipment that a plumber has at their disposal to help remedy a clogged toilet, from hydro-jetting to septic tank pumping.  Don’t let the problem get worse – contact professional drain cleaning and unclogging services.

Running Toilet

It occurs when a water seal inside the toilet is broken or obstructed, allowing water to constantly flow into the bowl. This can cause severe water damage and excessive water bills which neither should be taken lightly. To repair a running toilet, the homeowner must first shut off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to empty the bowl.

Once the toilet has been drained, it is important to inspect and identify the cause of the problem. Usually, the cause can be a damaged or worn flapper at the bottom of the toilet tank, a blocked drain, or a bent overflow pipe. Replacing or repairing the malfunctioning parts will alleviate the problem and restore the seal.

Faulty Water Heater

To determine if there is a fault with the water heater, check the temperature setting and see if the water is not getting hot enough. If the temperature and flow of the water are fine, there may be a problem with the thermostat or heating element. To fix the issue, you may need to replace the element or thermostat or hire a plumber to investigate further.

In addition to the water heater, be mindful of signs of old or faulty plumbing, such as low pressure, inconsistent water temperatures, vibrations, and discoloration of the water. Be sure to perform regular maintenance and cleaning to extend the life of the water heater and keep it functioning properly.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be a common issue for new homeowners. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible, as it can cause a decrease in water flow and problems with appliance connections. An easy way to tackle this is to check for water leaks and tighten any loose connections.

It’s also helpful to make sure all pipes are insulated, as the temperature can affect water pressure. Additionally, if the water pressure was low even before the home was purchased, a pressure regulator or submersible pump for a well can be installed to improve water flow. In some cases, the issue could be with the public water system’s pressure.

Jammed Garbage Disposal

This is when the blades inside the disposal are stuck and unable to operate freely. The first thing to do when this happens is to unplug the power to the disposal and make sure to wear protective gloves when doing so. From there, use a flashlight to look into the disposal for any large objects that may have gotten stuck.

Once that has been addressed, use a metal wrench to probe and turn the blades, as well as the flywheel underneath them. This should free the blades and help get your garbage disposal operating once again.

Leaky Pipes

In order to find and fix a leak, start by identifying where the pipes are located. Once the location is determined, turn off the water supply to the affected pipe and examine the affected area for cracks, corrosion, and other damage. If there is a crack in the pipe, it is usually necessary to cut out a section of the pipe and replace it with a new one.

If the damage is more severe, then re-piping the entire section may be necessary. In all cases, it is important to ensure that the newly installed pipes are properly sealed in order to prevent further leaks.

Avoid These Plumbing Issues To Ensure Your Comfort and Safety

Proper plumbing maintenance doesn’t have to be intimidating or overwhelming. Follow this guide as a comprehensive reference to common plumbing issues.

Remember practice, patience, and resourceful determination to stay educated can keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly! With this knowledge and some time, you’ll be a pro in no time. Start now and experience results!

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