Use, abuse, and Phoenix’s hard water are responsible for the most common home plumbing problems. Knowing what causes them can help you avoid the inconveniences they create and the headaches associated with plumbing emergencies.
Dripping Faucets
The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimates that dripping faucets account for 1 trillion gallons of wasted water each year in the United States alone. Most are easy to fix by replacing a washer, but single-lever faucets pose a distinct challenge that often requires a plumber. Repairing their parts is one of the more complicated, yet common home plumbing problems.
Leaking Toilets
Even if you don’t notice the water running in a toilet, it could still be leaking. The flapper inside the tank may be worn, or there could be a leak at the wax seal at the toilet’s base. Either way, toilet leaks are another common cause of home plumbing problems.
To check the flapper, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank of the toilet and check the water in the bowl a while later. If it’s colored, the flapper needs replacing. If you notice dampness or softening at the base of the toilet, contact Forrest Anderson for an immediate repair.
Slow Drains
Slow drains are one of the most common home plumbing problems. Garbage disposals clog pipes when people use them for coffee grounds or starchy foods like rice, potato peelings, or pasta. Another thing to avoid is pouring fat or grease down the sink. It will congeal on the pipes’ walls, even if you use hot water to wash it down. Dispose of the excess fats and grease in the garbage to avoid home plumbing problems that could become expensive.
Bathroom sink drains clog because soap and toothpaste adhere to the drainpipe’s walls and hair accumulates. Instead of pouring harsh commercial drain cleaners down the sink, use an inexpensive plastic snake to loosen the clog and flush with plenty of water. Drain cleaners often won’t dissolve clogs, but they may harm your pipes.
Clogged Toilets
Too much toilet paper and other items can clog a toilet. If plunging doesn’t work, try using a toilet snake. If you have no luck, contact Forrest Anderson for assistance.
Low Water Pressure
More often than not, low water pressure is the result of hard water deposits in the sink aerators or water being used at another plumbing fixture. Remove the faucet or showerhead aerator and dispose of any solids that have collected. If you live in an older home, your pipes may have hard water deposits inside them.
Sometimes water pressure drops in the shower when someone turns on a faucet somewhere else. This can cause scalding injuries, and is one of the most dangerous home plumbing problems, although it’s easily fixed. A plumber from Forrest Anderson can inspect the water pressure reducing valve and replace it if necessary.
Other causes of low water pressure may come from your water provider. If your indoor and outdoor faucets lack water pressure, contact the city or the company who supplies your water. There may be a broken water main or underground pipe break.
Leaking Water Pipes
Low water pressure could indicate home plumbing problems like a leaking pipe in the wall or slab. More often, you’ll find a water leak beneath your sink. If you tighten the fittings and it’s still leaking, contact Forrest Anderson for assistance.
Broken Shut-Off Valves
Plumbing fixtures often use shut-off valves to make plumbing repairs and replacements easier. Turning them off periodically can help prevent sticking and avoid the need to replace the valves.
You’ve probably encountered one or more of these common home plumbing problems. Knowing what causes them can help you prevent issues. However, when it’s time to call for help contact Forrest Anderson.
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