Many people do not think about the plumbing in their home until there is a problem. We rely on the plumbing system every day, but a surprising number of people do not know how to maintain their plumbing or what to do when a problem develops. Plumbing problems range from an irritating dripping tap to a blocked system that can cause structural damage to a property, as well as potentially causing damage to the contents within a property. From the simple fixes to the emergencies that may need professional attention, here are the most common plumbing problems that people face.
Dripping taps
Just about everyone is familiar with this problem, and while it certainly annoying, this is not the only reason to sort dripping taps. Each drop of water adds to your water bill and can add up to hundreds of gallons over a year. The problem can usually be sorted by replacing a faulty washer inside the tap using basic DIY tools.
Blocked and slow draining plug holes
Over time, plug holes can become blocked by congealed fat or food debris in the case of kitchen sinks, and dirt, hair, and soap in bathrooms. If you notice that a sink or shower is slow to drain, it is important to sort the problem before it becomes a complete blockage as this will be more complex to fix. You can clear a blockage with a plunger or a plumber’s snake, or by pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Chemical drain cleaners can be used, but it is important to do so with care as they can gradually corrode your pipes.
Running toilet
When a toilet is running it will be wasting a huge amount of water every day. In most cases it is caused by a broken flapper valve that regulates the water that passes from the tank to the bowl. It could also be due to sediment that prevents the toilet from flushing and refilling properly.
Leaking pipes
If you have a leaking pipe, it needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Water will damage your flooring and furniture and the resulting dampness can attract bugs and become a health hazard. Leaks tend to happen in winter as when the water in the pipe freezes, it expands and bursts the pipe. You may be able to tape or fill the leak temporarily, but the problem needs to be fixed by a professional company like GJS Plumbing and Heating Services.
Low water pressure
When water slowly trickles out of taps you may have an issue with low water pressure. This can happen when a pipe has a leak, which is common in older properties. When a shower has low water pressure, it may suggest that mineral and sediment has built up on the aerator, which can be fixed by cleaning or replacing the showerhead.
Blocked toilet
If your toilet bowl fills with water but does not drain, the toilet is clogged. This is usually because toilet paper, waste, or sanitary products (that should not be flushed) have become stuck in the pipework. A plunger or a sewer snake should sort the problem in most cases.
