Plumbing issues in a home are a hassle and cause major disruptions to your everyday life. While it may seem easier to ignore leaky faucets or pipes, they can lead to costly repairs if they are not taken care of promptly. Before you start looking into plumbing pipe repair options, it’s important to find out if you need one in the first place.
Here are some things to look for to determine if you need plumbing pipe repair on your residential property.
1. Leaks
Leaks are the most common sign of a plumbing problem. If you notice dripping or pooling water around pipes, that indicates an issue that needs to be taken care of quickly. In some cases, leaks may not be blatantly visible but can still cause damage over time. Look for signs such as mildew or mold growing around a pipe since these are often indicators of a leak that is going unnoticed.
Use your water meter to confirm a leak and find out its source. A simple shutoff valve will be attached that allows you to turn the water supply off and on. If the meter continues to spin when all water appliances are off, then there may be an issue with one of your pipes that needs further evaluation by a professional plumber.
2. Corrosion
Corrosion is a common sign that your pipes are aging and need replacement. If your pipes look discolored or rusted, they should be repaired before it leads to system-wide damage.
If not caught in time, corrosion can eventually result in a burst pipe. When a pipe bursts, it’s likely to cause flooding in your home. To prevent this costly disaster, regularly check your plumbing system for any signs of corrosion and have them taken care of promptly by a professional.
3. Low Water Pressure
Imagine taking a shower when the water pressure suddenly drops. If this happens, it usually indicates something is wrong with your pipes, especially if it happens in multiple places throughout the house. Low water pressure can result from sediment buildup or another blockage within the plumbing system that needs quick attention.
Sometimes, you can resolve low water pressure by cleaning out any debris or sediment. However, it is crucial to involve a professional plumber so that they can properly inspect the pipe and determine if it is actually sediment causing the issue. That ensures that it is not just a quick fix and that your pipes remain in working condition for years to come.
4. Strange Noises
If you hear strange sounds from your plumbing system, such as gurgling noises, loud banging, or vibrations in the pipes, this usually indicates a significant issue. These noises are often due to air trapped in the pipes or clogs that need to be cleared.
A professional can help locate the source of these sounds and determine what needs to be done to fix them. Sometimes, they may need to clear out any blockages or tighten some fittings to quiet down the pipes. However, if the issue persists, it may require more extensive work, such as pipe repair or replacement.
5. Discolored Water
Water discoloration can indicate a plumbing issue, especially in multiple places throughout your home. If the water has a strange tint or color, this could be caused by corrosion inside the pipes, which will need to be addressed before the pipe bursts. In addition, if you notice any white particles in your water, this could indicate sediment buildup that needs to be cleared.
To determine the reason for water discoloration, have a water quality test performed by a professional plumber. Doing this will ensure that the water is safe to consume and that the correct repairs or replacements are made.
6. Wet Spots or Musty Smells
A few common causes for wet spots or musty smells include leaking pipes and system clogs. If you can’t locate the source of the leak yourself, then make an appointment with a professional plumber who can inspect the area and determine the necessary fix.
Many homeowners believe that wet spots and musty smells are harmless occurrences in their plumbing system. In truth, these issues can lead to water damage and present health risks, such as mold and mildew growth.
7. Bad Odor in the Water
If strange odors are coming from your water, it may be time for a professional inspection. Offensive odors could be caused by bacteria or other contaminants in the water and need to be identified before they become a health risk.
The only way to properly diagnose this issue is to have your water tested by a professional to determine the exact cause and recommend any necessary repairs to get you back to a safe water supply.
8. Sinks or Toilets That Drain Slowly
If you notice that your sinks or toilets are draining slowly, this could indicate a blockage somewhere in the pipes. When this happens, it is often due to sediment buildup from hard water, which must be cleared before it causes further damage.
A professional plumber can help locate the source of the clog and determine what to do to get things flowing again. They may need to use specialized tools, such as snake augers or hydro-jetters, to clear out the debris and restore your pipe’s functionality.
9. Old Pipes
Plumbing systems are designed to last a long time but are not indestructible. As the age of the pipes increases, they can become corroded and brittle, leading to leaks or other damage. After a certain point, older pipes may need replacement to avoid major damage to your home down the line.
If you know your plumbing system has served you for over 20 years, schedule a routine inspection by a professional plumber. This way, you can make the necessary changes before any serious damage to your home occurs, saving you money on renovations in the long run.
When it comes to plumbing pipe repair for your home, you must watch for signs of potential damage. Discolored water, wet spots, musty smells, bad odors, slow-draining sinks or toilets, and old pipes are all indications of a problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to talk to a professional plumber for the best, long-lasting results.
At Baker & Sons Plumbing, our team of experienced and certified professionals offers targeted plumbing solutions for any home. We can provide comprehensive preventative inspections and immediate repairs for any issues you have. In addition to our comprehensive residential plumbing services, we also offer commercial plumbing services, water conditioning, water filtration, water heater installation and maintenance, sewer and drain services, and septic aeration system installation and maintenance. Our team proudly serves Marion, Illinois and the surrounding communities. Contact Baker & Sons Plumbing today to schedule an appointment and get the best plumbing service in town!
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