Plumbing problems often occur with little warning, leaving your Navarre home a wet mess. Understanding the most common issues can help you recognize a problem quickly and get help before you face a plumbing catastrophe. You’ll also learn the best ways to prevent plumbing problems, which can help reduce your risk of experiencing them in the first place.
1. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains commonly occur when foreign objects slip down the drain. In the kitchen, this can include things like food and grease, which move down the drain and begin to create a clog. In the bathroom, soap scum, hair, and similar debris are the most common culprits in sink and bathtub clogs. You’ll likely notice that the drain is slow to empty at first, indicating that a clog is building, and if you do not take action, you’ll soon have a full-fledged clog that water is unable to move past.
Your plumber might recommend drain screens. These are easy to install and can catch debris such as food and hair before they can cause clogs. Your plumber can also show you how to clean the screens so that they are always working at maximum effectiveness.
2. Leaky Faucets
Inside your faucets are washers that can wear out or sustain damage over time. Once they start to degrade, this can cause your faucets to start leaking. In some cases, corrosion and mineral deposits can lead to components in your faucets deteriorating, worsening the leaking.
3. Low Water Pressure
If you are taking a shower or running a faucet and notice the water pressure is weaker than usual, this is low water pressure. Several factors can contribute to this problem. A restriction in water flow can be due to a leak or mineral and sediment deposits. When it comes to leaks, there are some that you can see and some that could be hidden behind walls, so they are not readily visible. The pressure regulator can also malfunction causing low water pressure in your home.
4. Running Toilets
If you have a toilet that is constantly running, it could have a malfunctioning fill valve or flapper. When the flapper is malfunctioning, the water flows continuously due to it not sealing properly. If the fill valve is faulty, the toilet can run constantly, causing an improper water level.
5. Pipe Leaks
Issues like corrosion, physical damage, and excessive water pressure can lead to pipe damage. These can result in leaks. Corrosion is usually due to the water or soil’s chemical composition. Physical damage typically results from freezing or something hitting a pipe and breaking it. Pipes can experience stress due to high water pressure which can weaken their structural integrity and cause a leak.
Our experts at Paradise Home Services will let the water run to ensure that the water pressure is at an appropriate level. This will also give us a chance to ensure there is no discolored water in your home, which could indicate other issues. We’re also happy to test your water’s hardness upon request. Hard water can lead to clogs and damaged appliances over time.
6. Frozen Pipes
During the winter months, once the weather dips below freezing, there is a risk of pipes freezing in your home. This can occur due to issues like exposed pipes or poor insulation around your pipes. Any pipes in your home in unheated areas are also at risk for freezing.
Talk to your plumber about assessing the insulation around your pipes to make sure that it is adequate to prevent potential freezing and bursting. They will also check all of the connections and the washers and gaskets in your faucets to ensure that they are in good condition.
7. Water Heater Issues
Several issues can impact your water heater. For example, strange noises, not enough hot water, or discolored water. There is a heating element inside your water heater. Sediment accumulates near the element over time, preventing it from heating the water properly. Water heater issues can also stem from a faulty thermostat, anode rod corrosion, or the pressure relief valve malfunctioning.
An expert will inspect your water heater to determine the source of the problem. If there is a buildup of sediment, they might recommend draining it to help flush some of this out. This could prevent damage to the internal components and make your water heater last longer.
8. Garbage Disposal Issues
Quite a few things can cause problems with your garbage disposal. Grease and fibrous foods can quickly lead to a clog. In some cases, hard objects can also slip into the disposal and block it. Overloading the garbage disposal can cause damage as can failing to clean it regularly. Failing to clean it can also lead to lingering and unpleasant odors.
A plumber can ensure all your garbage disposal parts are in good working order. This will involve any necessary cleaning to prevent clogs. If the blades need sharpening, the plumber will explain your options.
9. Sump Pump Failure
If you have a sump pump in your home, a power failure could affect its ability to work. The inlet screen should be clean and free of any debris that could interfere with its function. If the float switch is damaged or stuck, the pump might not turn on when you need it.
Septic Tank Problems
When you have a septic tank, you will need to have a professional pump regularly to prevent the clogs and backups that result from the accumulation of solid waste. You have to be mindful of what you flush because any non-biodegradable items can interfere with the delicate balance of your septic system. Excessive water usage can also contribute to problems with the system backing up.
A professional can evaluate the health of your septic system and whether it’s time for a professional to empty the tank. Timely drainage can help avoid expensive, frustrating problems that could cause major damage to your home. At this time, the plumber can also determine if any roots are infiltrating or encroaching on your pipes, which can cause drainage problems and flooding.
Plumbing Professionals in Navarre
Preventing problems with your plumbing system means performing the right maintenance to keep all of the components in good working order and free of clogs or debris that could cause backups. The first step is to call a professional to schedule an annual maintenance appointment. At your annual maintenance visit, we’ll check your entire system to spot any issues with the various components. This process includes your pipes, faucets, and water heater. If you have a septic tank or sump pump, we will examine these, too. We’ll also recommend appropriate preventive steps you can take to keep your risk of problems as low as possible.
Our team is here to tackle problems efficiently and effectively so that your plumbing system continues to function appropriately. We can also assist you with any cooling and heating issues or maintenance in your home. Contact Paradise Home Services in Navarre today to get help with all of your plumbing problems.
