While many plumbing problems are fine DIY projects, others require the help of a professional. Knowing when to call in a plumber can save you money, stress, and even serious damage.
For example, if your water pressure is low, it could be a sign of a broken pipe. Here are five signs it’s time to call a plumber: 1. Dripping faucets.
1. Dripping Faucets
Dripping faucets are more than just annoying; they can also cost you money. With each drip, you’re losing gallons of water that could otherwise be used elsewhere in your home. And if the problem persists, it’s likely that there is an underlying issue with your plumbing system that needs professional attention.
Drip leaks often occur because of worn seals, which can be replaced by a plumber. In addition, many dripping faucets are caused by loose parts that need to be tightened. Loose parts are harder to fix than you might think, because they may be farther down in the pipes than you can reach. A plumber can tighten these hard-to-reach parts and make sure that the new parts are an exact fit, such as the ones at SCS Plumbing and Heating Colchester.
Before calling a plumber, make sure you turn off the water supply valves to the faucet. Turn off the main water valve in your home as well, if you’re comfortable doing so. Then, clean the handles, packing nut, and stem of your faucet to remove any built-up deposits or water sediments. You can use white vinegar to clean these parts, which will reduce the likelihood of future leaks.
It’s also important to note that dripping faucets can lead to costly problems down the road, including damage to wood, mold, or mildew in your walls and flooring. And if the problem continues, it can even cause your sewage line to back up into your house.
Dripping faucets can be expensive to repair, and it’s possible that you’ll end up replacing your entire faucet in the long run. In these cases, a plumber will be able to help you weigh the costs of repairing vs. replacing your sink.
2. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains can be a huge nuisance and are often a sign of a more serious problem. If your sink, tub or toilet is backing up with water, it’s time to call a plumber for a drain cleaning. A professional plumber has the tools and skills to quickly and effectively unclog a drain. They’ll also be able to check how serious the clog is and provide a lasting solution. Clogged drains are caused by many things, including hair, grease, soap scum, and food scraps. Taking preventative measures, such as regularly cleaning drains with baking soda and vinegar or using a drain snake, can help reduce the risk of clogs.
Foul odors from your drains are another sign that it’s time to call a plumber. These smells may come from a blockage or a broken pipe. When a clog or backup occurs, it can cause the sewage to back up into your home, which is a serious health and safety issue. A rotting and smelly garbage disposal is also a sign of a clog or broken pipe.
Strange gurgling noises from your drains can indicate that there is a trapped air pocket due to a clog. Ignoring these sounds can lead to increased pressure within your pipes, which could result in leaks or bursts.
3. Water Leaks
Water leaks are a common plumbing problem that can lead to expensive damage if left untreated. If you notice any water leaking from your home’s pipes, it is important to call a plumber right away. This will ensure that the plumber can find and repair the source of the leak before it worsens.
Some signs of a water leak include unexplained increases in your water bill, visible water spots on your ceiling or walls, and puddles in your yard. If you suspect you have a water leak, it is also a good idea to shut off your home’s main water supply, which can be done by turning off the valve located under your sink.
Another sign of a leak is hearing unusual noises coming from your home’s plumbing. This could be the sound of water dripping or running from a hidden pipe in your walls or floors. Professional plumbers have the equipment and knowledge to locate and repair these issues without causing further damage.
If you have a clogged toilet, it is crucial to call a professional plumber as soon as possible. Not only will a plumber be able to clear the blockage, but they can also ensure that the issue doesn’t return and cause further damage. Before the plumber arrives, it is a good idea to turn off the water to your toilet and to flush it to remove any debris that may be blocking the drain. It is also a good idea to move any items on the floor that can get wet, and to close any doors or windows in the area. You should also make sure to move any pets from the area, as they can be a distraction and potentially a hazard if they are caught in the middle of a plumbing emergency.
4. Low Water Pressure
Water pressure issues can be extremely frustrating, especially if you’re doing laundry, taking showers, or running a dishwasher. A plumber will be able to check your home’s pipes and determine what is causing low water pressure. They may suggest installing a water pressure booster system, which is an excellent investment. These systems work by adding air to the pipes, which increases the flow of water and often resolves low water pressure problems.
Clogged drains are another common reason homeowners call a plumber. Hair, soap scum, and other debris can clog bathroom and kitchen drains, causing water to back up into sinks, tubs, and toilets. These issues can be difficult to deal with, but a plumber will be able to get the job done quickly and easily.
Leaking pipes are another common cause of low water pressure. These leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including natural wear and tear, expansion and contraction, and freezing and thawing. If left unchecked, these leaks can lead to serious damage to your home’s plumbing and infrastructure.
Homeowners should also call a plumber if they notice that their water pressure is lower than usual and there are no visible signs of a leak in their house or garden. Even small leaks can rob your home of water and money, so it’s important to have any problems fixed as soon as possible by an experienced plumber.
5. Broken Pipes
We often take the plumbing in our homes for granted — until it stops working properly. From leaky faucets to clogged drains, these issues are inconvenient and frustrating, but they’re also dangerous if left unchecked.
A broken pipe can cause serious water damage to your home and belongings, so it’s important to call a plumber as soon as you notice signs of a leak or burst pipe. Unexplained increases in your water bill, wet or damp spots in your home, and puddles that appear overnight are all indicators of a leaking or broken pipe.
Leaking and broken pipes are often caused by old age, a lack of regular maintenance, or extreme weather conditions. If your pipes are older, it’s a good idea to have them inspected by a professional to see if they need to be replaced.
When a pipe breaks, it’s a good idea to turn off your water supply so that any remaining water can be shut off and the affected area can be dried out before a plumber arrives. This can be done by locating the main water valve, which is usually located near your water meter, and turning it off. It’s also a good idea to turn off any other appliances that use water, such as your washing machine and dishwasher.
Once you’ve turned off your water, it’s a good idea to move any furniture or belongings that could get wet before the plumber arrives. It’s also a good idea for you to write down all the signs and symptoms you’ve noticed, as well as any relevant information like changes in your water pressure or temperature, so that you can relay this to the plumber when they arrive.
