Prevention and Repair: 5 Common Plumbing Issues

No matter how well you take care of your plumbing system, there may come a point when you are forced to deal with issues such as leaks and clogs. Here is a closer look at five of the most common plumbing problems and what you can do to avoid them.

Leaky Faucets

A single leak in your home can increase your water bills by as much as 10 percent. Luckily, most leaky faucets can easily be fixed by replacing the gaskets and tightening the bolts. You might also need to replace the stem and washer if they are cracked or rusty.

Slab Leaks

A slab leak is a major structural problem that can cause an immense amount of damage in a short period of time. Some of the most common signs of a slab leak include the sound of running water, unusual odors in your basement, foundation movement, and cracked floors. Homeowners who notice any of these signs should immediately contact a plumber to have the leak repaired.

Clogged Drains

Practically every homeowner will experience at least a few clogged drains over the years. The easiest way to prevent a clog is to throw away anything that is not specifically designed to go down a drain. You might also want to invest in drain catches that prevent larger debris from clogging the pipes.

Clogged Toilets

Much like your drains, your toilets can become clogged if someone in your family tries to flush something large or there is a buildup of waste. Clogs that are higher up in the system can be cleared away with a plunger and a little bit of elbow grease. If the clog is deeper in the system, then you might need to hire a plumber to snake the pipes.

No Hot Water

Even though modern water heaters are incredibly durable, they do not last forever. On average, you should replace your water heater every 10 or 15 years. For those who have relatively new water heaters, a lack of hot water is most likely the result of the pilot flame going out. Relighting the pilot light is relatively easy as long as you can locate the nozzle and gas control valve.

No matter what type of plumbing issues you come across, you should always turn off the water main before carrying out any repairs. This precautionary step will reduce your risk of dealing with secondary problems such as mold, mildew, and damaged floorboards. Contact a company like Clearwater Plumbing if you have any concerns or are worried that you might make the problem worse. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

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