Although there technically are countless different types of residential plumbing problems that occur within homes everywhere, there are certain plumbing issues that occur more often than others.
It’s always crucial to do your part in terms of recognizing certain warning signs associated with plumbing repairs, but the best thing a homeowner can do is be proactive towards preventing plumbing issues from occurring in the first place. This of course is a lot easier said than done, but the below tips are here to point out the most common types of residential plumbing problems (and how to avoid them).
Clogged Toilets & Drains
Clogged drains and toilets are by far one of the most common plumbing problems to happen within residential homes, and you can notice this type of plumbing issue rather easily when you see water backing up from your fixtures. If your toilet clog doesn’t get fixed by basic plunging, then it likely means you’re experiencing a significant clog that’ll likely require professional attention.
Drain clogs are often caused by hair and other common debris that goes down drains, but as time goes on, these types of accumulations can be particularly troubling.
The best way to avoid clogged toilets and drains is to only flush toilet paper down your toilets, and be careful of your children in terms of flushing anything that’s not supposed to go down the drains. You should also try to keep hair out of your sink drains to avoid any unwanted accumulation.
Leaky Pipes & Faucets
Leaking faucets and pipes are another common issue that occurs within homes and apartment buildings, and this type of dripping can get extremely annoying when it makes noises within your sinks. But leaky faucets can waste a ton of water really quickly, so it’s a plumbing issue that needs to be addressed quickly.
And when your home is experiencing a leaky pipe, it’s a plumbing emergency that will require professional attention as soon as possible. Pipe leaks can create all sorts of structural damages within your property, and it can even damage your home’s foundation.
The best ways to avoid leaky pipes and faucets is to understand that these plumbing issues typically come from normal wear and tear. This means the leaks will eventually happen with time, but you can always reach out to your local plumbing team for regular inspection appointments. These types of inspections can go a long way to help you better recognize when a pipe or faucet is on the brink of malfunctioning.
Water Heater Malfunctions
When your water heater is acting up, it’s pretty easy to notice. This is because your showers may be cold, or your hot water isn’t lasting as long as it’s typically supposed to. And when you’re seeing serious issues like discolored water, pools of water and leaks coming from your water heater, it’s a sign that you’re going to need professional assistance.
All sorts of issues can cause water heater malfunctioning, and one common cause of water heater issues is sediment buildup within your unit’s tank. As sediment builds up at the bottom of a water heater tank, it can decrease the appliance’s efficiency and end up damaging the heating elements.
The best way to avoid water heater malfunctions is to properly maintain your water heater unit. This includes regularly checking up on your pressure valve, flushing out your tank on a regular basis, and investing in a routine maintenance program with your local plumbing team.
Low Water Pressure
Another common residential plumbing issue is low water pressure, and this type of problem comes in various degrees of severity. For example, if only one plumbing fixture is experiencing low water pressure, then it could be a sign that you have a kink in your water lines or a basic clog that can be easily addressed. However, when multiple fixtures and lines throughout your property are experiencing low water pressure, it’s a serious warning sign that you have a leak that’s impacting your entire plumbing system.
The best way to avoid low water pressure issues at your house is to install a whole-house water filtration system that’ll keep minerals out of your pipes. You should also consider investing in a water softener when your home’s water is considered to be hard, or high in calcium and magnesium.
Running Toilets
Running toilets happen all the time within residential plumbing systems, and this can be a lot more than just a simple annoyance. Running toilets can actually end up wasting A LOT of water. Flapper valve malfunctions are often a cause of running toilets, as well as an imbalanced fill tube. You could also be experiencing a toilet leak, which is a significant problem that needs to be addressed immediately by your plumber.
The best way to avoid a running toilet is to get your plumbing system inspected on a regular basis, because this issue can sometimes be difficult to prevent!
Contact The Residential Plumbing Experts at Beehive Plumbing To Learn More!
The above residential plumbing issues happen all the time in homes throughout the country, but these issues are just the beginning in terms of what can potentially happen at your house.
The best way to avoid and resolve plumbing problems is to have a reputable plumbing team on call when you need them. You can learn more about residential plumbing issues and prevention by going through the hyperlink at the top of the page that goes to the Beehive Plumbing homepage!
