Keeping your plumbing system running smooth is vital, but surprisingly, many people keep ignoring problems until things go out of hand. They don’t realize that ignoring a simple leaky faucet now can lead to big problems later.
To avoid costly repairs, you should never ignore unusual sounds, odors, or anything that just doesn’t feel right. When caught early, plumbing issues will save you from unpleasant surprises later. The moment you notice something seems amiss, it’s time to call in an expert. Here are some situations when hiring a plumber makes a lot of sense.
Unusual Noises in the Pipes
Whistling, banging, gurgling, or any unusual noises in your pipes are annoying, but they also serve as warning signals, suggesting your plumbing system needs the help of a local plumbing contractor. Sometimes, these noises are nothing more than a whisper; but they turn into a loud cry in no time. These noises happen for different reasons. For instance:
- A banging sound, or a “water hammer” sound is heard when water flow is disrupted or changes direction due to pressure issues.
- Whistling is usually due to a partially closed valve; it may also happen due to trapped air in the pipes.
- Gurgling is a sign of an impending blockage in the drain; it’s produced when trapped air tries to escape.
Each of these noises has different root causes but they all have one thing in common: ignore them and they will result in severe damage. Don’t make the mistake of fixing these issues on your own.
The simple solution is to call a local plumbing contractor. They know how to identify the source of these noises. They have the experience to assess pressure levels, find hidden blockages, and secure loose pipes without damaging your walls. The use of specialized equipment like snake cameras and pressure gauges enables these experts to identify and fix plumbing noises in no time.
Stinky Drains
Stinky drains are gross, but they’re also a warning sign, suggesting something’s not right in your plumbing. This is especially true if your kitchen or bathroom sink smells like sewage. Various things can go wrong here, but the issues are usually due to a sewer backup. If the drains smell really bad, there’s probably an issue with a sewer line, restricting the flow of wastewater and causing gasses to come back up through those drains. Similarly, clogged vent pipes may also be one of many reasons behind a foul-smelling drain.
Remember, drains shouldn’t smell bad, as their job is to ensure water flows properly through them. Greatest, soap, food, and hair can accumulate and block that flow, making drains smell bad. Should you try cleaning it up yourself? Not a good idea.
These systems are very delicate and complex, and messing around would lead to bigger issues. Stay away from pouring anything down the drain, especially those harsh store-bought chemicals. Using those harsh cleaners seems like an easy fix, but it can quickly corrode your pipes and lead to leaks and bursts. The solution is to always consult a professional.
High Water Bill
Your water bill can throw your budget out of balance, but things take a nosedive when you don’t expect it to be so high. If you’ve been surprised by the water bill, it’s time to look into your plumbing system, especially if your usage hasn’t changed considerably.
A broken pipe or hidden leak is probably the underlying cause of your hefty water bill. It’s hard to identify them because they’re often hidden under floors, behind walls, or in basements. Sometimes, a minor issue like a dripping faucet can also play a role in pushing your bill up.
The thing is that pipes and fixtures are bound to wear out with time. Even new systems can be affected by temperature changes, poor installation, or foundation shifts. These factors cause leaks to grow over time and water use (and your bills) to increase slowly but surely.
Since water leaks don’t show themselves, you should avoid handling them alone. Call a plumber, as they have specialized tools (like infrared cameras and leak detectors) to find what’s causing the problem.
Endnote
Ignore small plumbing issues now and be prepared to spend big money later, as those problems are only going to get worse over time. Using “quick fixes” backfires, especially when those solutions involve messing with pipes; it can cause bursts, leaks, and damage that throws the whole plumbing system out of whack. Call a plumber; these professionals don’t fix the problem but ensure it never happens again.
Recent Comments