Using less water helps the environment by reducing carbon emissions and saving energy needed to heat water. A plumber can help you conserve water by checking on your appliances and fixtures for leaks, clogs, or low water pressure.
Knowing when to call a plumber can save you money on repairs and reduce the stress of plumbing emergencies. Here are some warning signs that it’s time to call:
Leaky Faucets
A leaking faucet is more than just an annoying nuisance that wastes water. It also creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold to thrive, which can cause health issues, especially for people with weakened immune systems or asthma. The incessant drip can also damage floors, ceilings and cabinetry.
A plumber can diagnose and fix the problem quickly, saving you money in utility bills and repair costs. If the leak is occurring at the base of the faucet, a replacement O ring or gasket might be needed. A leaking faucet that sprays or splashes usually indicates that the valve seat washer or cartridge needs to be replaced.
Water sediments can build up over time, causing inlet and outlet seals to wear down. Replacing these parts often fixes the problem. If the drips persist, a more serious problem like corrosion within pipes or faulty valves may be the culprit. This is another reason to have a plumber look at your home's plumbing regularly.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can be a major pain in the butt, and they often lead to serious damage to your home. They can also cause your plumbing to back up, causing water to flood your home and soak into the foundation. In the worst cases, clogged drains can even cause your toilets to overflow.
The most common causes of clogged drains are FOG (fat, oil, and grease), paper products, and mineral buildup. Prevent clogs by soaking up excess fat with a paper towel, and avoid putting food waste down your drains (even if you have a garbage disposal). Try setting up a compost bin at home instead of throwing away food scraps.
If you’re having trouble with your drains and have tried plunging or over-the-counter products, it’s time to call a plumber for professional help. They’ll have the tools and equipment necessary to get your drains clog-free fast. Plus, they’ll be able to detect other issues that may be causing problems down the line.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a major problem that can lead to water damage throughout your home. When water freezes, it expands, putting tremendous pressure on pipes. This can cause both plastic and metal pipes to burst. Frozen pipes can also lead to a loss of water in your home and even result in mold problems.
Usually, frozen pipes are found in unheated areas of your home, such as basements,
crawl spaces and attics. However, pipes can also be located outside of your house and in exterior walls, especially if they are exposed to direct sunlight or drafts.
Some common signs of a frozen pipe include limited or no running water, clanking sounds when the faucet is turned on and sewage smells coming from your faucets. If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, start by turning off the water supply valve to that pipe. Then, open all faucets connected to that pipe to relieve pressure and attempt to thaw the pipe with heat, such as an electric heating pad, hot water, hair dryer or portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials). If the frozen section of the pipe has already burst, call a plumber immediately.
Low Water Pressure
It can be frustrating when your shower delivers a disappointing dribble rather than the invigorating rush of water you expect. A plumber can fix this issue and restore consistent water pressure to your home.
Your home’s plumbing lines may be clogged or experiencing corrosion. A plumber can assess the condition of your pipes to determine if they can be cleaned or if they need to be replaced.
A plumber can also install new branch lines to supply water to different fixtures in your home if the existing ones are too small. This can save you money on energy costs and ensure that your appliances are receiving a sufficient amount of water to work properly. People mistake plumbing problems with simple do it yourself tasks. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ have professionals who work on all types of plumbing problems.