A sink that is slow to drain, a persistently dripping faucet, a stain on the ceiling — these issues may seem minor and easy to ignore, but they can lead to serious problems. In some cases, homeowners can apply a quick fix with a wrench or plunger, but most plumbing issues require the knowledge and skills of a plumber. The following are the top four signs that it’s time to call a professional to fix your plumbing.
1. Slow Drains
Slow draining water in a sink, shower, or bathtub is a sure sign that there is a blockage somewhere in the drainage system. In the kitchen, food scraps and hardened grease can clog a drain, while hair and soap scum buildup will back up a bathroom sink or shower. Sometimes homeowners can dissolve a clog by pouring boiling water or a natural solvent, like vinegar and baking soda, down the drain. Stubborn clogs, however, may resist these methods. A plumber has tools that can quickly and effectively remove a clog no matter where in the plumbing system it occurs.
2. A Leaking Faucet
Dripping water is more than just an annoyance. Not only does it waste water (easily thousands of gallons per year), but dripping water can stain the sink, ruin grout, and put stress on the plumbing system. Most of the time, a leaky faucet is due to a loose or worn-out part, like a washer or a seal. If sediment is building up in the pipes, it can cause metal parts to corrode. A plumber will provide expert water pipes repair and deal with any other issues in the drainage system that are contributing to the leak.
3. Stains on The Ceiling
A stain on the ceiling is a sure sign that water is leaking from above, and it is a problem the homeowners should address immediately. Whether the leak is coming from the roof, the air conditioning ducts, or the plumbing system, an untreated leak can cause expensive and potentially irreparable damage to the ceiling. Often leaks above the ceiling result from poor insulation, causing pipes to sweat, or damaged caulking around a shower or bathtub drain. It’s important to repair the leak before doing any cosmetic repairs to the ceiling.
4. Low Water Pressure
A drop in water pressure is another sign of a potentially serious plumbing issue. Before calling a plumber, homeowners should contact their water utility company to find out if there is a problem with the water supply. If not, then it’s time to call a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem. Some of the most common causes of low water pressure include a blockage in the aerator above the faucet, a problem with the main shut-off valve to the house, a faulty pressure regulator, and leaking or corroded pipes.
Plumbers have extensive knowledge of plumbing systems and how their components work together. They also have the right tools to make quick and effective repairs. It may be tempting to try a DIY repair, but homeowners should be aware that amateur mistakes can lead to very costly damage.
