Plumbing problems are inevitable. But that doesn’t mean you can’t minimize any potential damage. Knowing the issues to look out for beforehand allows you to react quickly and prevent considerable structural harm.
In this article, we’ll list the seven most common plumbing problems.
Clogged Toilets and Drains
The most noticeable sign of clogged drains is water backing up while taking a shower or emptying your sink. Likewise, a clogged toilet won’t allow you to flush normally. The water will back up in the bowl and can even overflow.
Clogged or slow drains are caused by a partial or complete blockage. Hair is the main culprit in showers and sinks. Other causes include small toys and shampoo lids.
In contrast, most toilet clogs involve dissolvable waste. These items can’t move through your pipes, preventing water from flowing past the blockage.
Clearing the blockage generally restores your toilet or drains to their previous condition. Still, your best bet is to hire a professional plumber and avoid the DIY route.
Dripping Faucets
Most households have experienced dripping faucets. Besides being hugely irritating, they can also skyrocket your water bills. In particular, just one leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons in one year.
The most prevalent cause of dripping faucets is a dislodged, worn, stiff, or torn internal washer. If this is the case, your local plumber can quickly fix the issue with basic tools. They’ll first switch off the water supply and disassemble the faucet. Finally, they’ll replace the broken washer and reassemble the faucet.
Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes are one of the most common plumbing problems. They are a frequent occurrence that can wreak havoc on your plumbing system.
There are various culprits for leaky pipes:
- Improper pipe laying
- Stubborn clogs
- Joint damage
- Corrosion
- Cracked pipes or seals
- Excessive water pressure
Regardless of the cause, leaky pipes need to be addressed fast. The longer you leave them unchecked, the more dangerous they get. Apart from harming your plumbing system, they can also inflict massive structural damage to other areas of your house.
Water Heater Issues
Water heater issues are some of the most dangerous plumbing problems due to all the electrical components that can quickly catch fire and injure inexperienced homeowners.
The good news is that water heater problems are typically easy to spot. For instance, you want to take a shower, but you can only use cold water. Other signs include dripping or discoloured water, puddles near the appliance, and strange noises coming from the unit.
In general, leaks and lack of water are the leading cause of most water heater issues. Mineral deposits can also be responsible for the malfunction. They reduce the hot water supply throughout the house and render the water heater inefficient. Furthermore, sediment can produce unknown sounds because it heats and explodes on various water heater components.
Running Toilet
Running toilets can be one of the most expensive plumbing problems. They contribute approximately 200 gallons of wasted water per year. Hence, it’s important to react fast and contact a seasoned plumber as soon as you notice this issue.
Running toilets are generally caused by a malfunctioning flapper valve that controls the water flowing between the tank and the bowl. Like some common plumbing problems, they can be quickly fixed with proper tools and knowledge.
Sediment is another potential culprit, disrupting the filling and flushing system. If your water bill has risen unexpectedly, check for leaks by adding food colour to your upper tank. If it reaches the bowl without flushing, you’re dealing with a running toilet.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is one of the most common plumbing problems in old houses with outdated fixtures, but it can also affect new homes. There are a few potential causes. For example, a faulty water main can reduce water pressure, and it usually affects several houses in your neighbourhood.
You’ll experience the same loss of pressure if a pipe or two is leaking. To verify you have a leak, turn off your faucets, check the water meter, and don’t use water for a few hours. If your water meter changes, you’re most likely facing a leak.
Another potential culprit is the build-up of sediment and minerals in faucet showerheads, aerators, or pipes. It impedes water flow, leading to lower pressure.
Regardless of the cause, low water pressure usually gets worse over time. It prevents you from taking a comfortable shower and rinsing the dishes. Solving the issue promptly is the only way to return to normal use.
Sewer Backup
A sewer system backing up is a true nightmare. It can be odorous, unhygienic, inconvenient, and costly. If you smell human waste, and multiple toilets and drains aren’t working, your sewer is likely backed up.
The most common causes include:
- Clogged sewer lines: DIY repairs can do more harm than good, so hire a professional to fix clogged sewer lines. To avoid future instances of this scenario, be careful what you flush down the toilet. More specifically, diapers, napkins, facial tissue, and grease are a no-go.
- Tree roots: Sometimes, tree roots can invade your pipes. They can push through the cracks or surround the lines, crushing them and leading to sewer backup.
- Broken or collapsed sewer lines: Old sewer lines collapse or break relatively often. Plumbers fix this issue by replacing them with modern lines made of plastic. Unlike clay or cast-iron pipes, they’re not susceptible to decay over time.
Keep Your Plumbing Problems at Bay
Resolving these plumbing problems fast is highly recommended. Some may seem like a nuisance early on, but they can cost you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Reach out to MT Drains & Plumbing as soon as you notice there’s something wrong with your plumbing. Our skilled technicians have serviced numerous households in Toronto and the surrounding area, restoring their plumbing system to its former condition. We can do the same for you, so give us a call at any time of the day.
