Plumbing problems are a fact of life in most homes. From dripping faucets to clogged drains & toilets, it’s important to address them as soon as they arise.
Depending on the problem, there are a variety of solutions that can be used. This article will cover the most common issues that homeowners run into including:
Leaking Faucet
The dripping sound of a leaky faucet can be annoying and may even lead to water wastage. This waste of water can actually add up to a significant amount over time, which is why it’s important to fix any issues as soon as they occur.
The most common causes of leaking faucets include worn or dry O-rings, washers, and valve seat seals. These small parts help to create a watertight seal and ensure that the water only flows where it’s supposed to go. If these items are worn out, they need to be replaced.
In most cases, a leaking faucet can be easily fixed by the homeowner, depending on what type of faucet it is (ball, cartridge, or ceramic-disk). The first step is to remove the handle by using a screwdriver to loosen the decorative cap and expose the screw underneath. It’s helpful to place the parts in order as you remove them, so that when you’re ready to reassemble the faucet, they’re already organized.
Clogged Drain
No one likes a drain that doesn’t work and clogged drains are a major household issue. They are unpleasant, inconvenient and can cause odors in the home. A professional plumber can identify the root of the problem and give recommendations for preventative measures.
Food debris, hair, soap scum and other items can clog the pipes. A clog can also be caused by grease or fatty substances that wash down the kitchen sink and stick to the inside of the pipes.
A clog isn’t just unpleasant – it can be dangerous. When plumbing water encounters a full or partial blockage in the pipes, it can redirect itself and cause strange reactions that affect the entire system. If at-home methods like plunging don’t clear the clog, call a professional. A plumber can use more advanced tools to break up clogs and restore proper draining. They can also recommend preventative measures, likeinvesting in regular maintenance. Sites that are informative and give good education such as https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-geelong/blocked-drains-geelong/ is a great place to find resourceful information regarding plumbing services.
Slow Drain
A slow drain might not be a plumbing emergency, but it doesn’t mean you should ignore it either. This is because a slow drain often signals a clog that’s getting worse. Over time, a clog can cause water and waste to back up into your home and even lead to major damage.
In most cases, a slow drain is caused by hair, food debris, and soap scum. But sometimes it’s due to a blocked or broken vent. Other causes include tree roots, corrosion of pipes, and a cracked or collapsed sewer line pipe.
If a DIY method like Zip-It or a homemade chemical solution doesn’t help, it might be time to call the experts. A plumber has the tools and knowledge to properly address your clogged drain or pipe. Plus, they can use a drain camera to find the source of the problem and determine which methods are best. They can also handle other plumbing issues, such as leaky faucets and pipes, a running toilet, and low water pressure.
Clogged Toilet
Clogged toilets are not only an inconvenience, but they can also cause serious damage if left unaddressed. They can lead to sewage backups, which require expensive professional drain cleaning and sewer line repairs. Taking preventative measures such as scheduling regular inspections and installing a water softener can help reduce the likelihood of clogged toilets.
Another way to help prevent clogged toilets is by reminding family members of what can and cannot be flushed. Reminding them to use the trash can for disposing of items such as disposable cloths, menstrual products, ear swabs and hair can go a long way in keeping a home’s plumbing system functional.
Lastly, if you find yourself dealing with a stubborn clogged toilet, it is not always a good idea to try plunging and other DIY methods before calling a plumber. The hot soapy water will create pressure and act as a lubricant to usher backed-up matter through the toilet and down the drain. This can cause additional problems and prevent a faster repair.