If you’re a homeowner, you’ve no doubt run into some common plumbing problems now and then.

A dripping faucet or a stopped-up toilet can be annoying to say the least. They can also cause a lot more than just an annoyance if left unattended, causing extensive and expensive damage to your property.

Knowing the most common plumbing issues means you can be proactive, saving yourself time and money down the line.

Here are some common plumbing problems that you should be aware of.

1. Clogged Pipes

Clogged pipes are among the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. Clogs can prevent water from flowing freely through your drain pipes. A build-up of grease, soap scum, hair, and other debris can cause clogs.

If you can’t fix clogs promptly, it can cause water to back up in the pipes and cause water damage to walls, floors, and furniture. You can fix clogs without professional help, but if they’re too far down the pipes, they need a qualified Plumber in Northern Beaches Sydney (or one near you) to inspect them.

Using chemicals to break through clogs is not advisable since they may cause damage to the pipes and create more problems. For more stubborn clogs, professional plumbers can use specialized tools, such as a hydro-jetting system, to break up the clog and resolve the issue. It’s important to have clogs in your pipes monitored regularly to avoid costly repairs and water damage.

2. Leaking and Burst Pipes

Leaking pipes are also plumbing problems that all homeowners should be aware of and how to address them. Identifying whether the leak is originating from an internal or external pipe is the first step. In that regard, it might be essential to take the help of professional plumbing firms like Wizard Leak Detection or ones like them that offer a comprehensive range of water leak detection and repair services. If the leak is coming from the interior of the home, they usually relate the cause to corroded or loose pipe joints, high-pressure water systems, or worn-out seals or gaskets.

For outside pipes, chances are the cause is an obstruction or a crack in the pipe itself. In order to stop future damage, you must replace the pipe as soon as possible if it has burst. Homeowners can generally handle minor leaking issues on their own if they have the basic plumbing know-how. You may contact a professional plumber if issues are beyond your ability.

Knowing how to spot and fix leaks and burst pipes can help homeowners save time and money.

3. Running Toilets

Running toilets can be annoying and homeowners should know how to diagnose and address it. In many cases, running toilets are a result of a toilet flapper that is held open for too long due to age or debris build-up in the tank. There are a few ways to diagnose if the toilet is running due to a flapper issue.

A homeowner can lift the toilet lid and inspect the flapper and corresponding chain. If the flapper is stuck open or the chain is too tight, it is likely the cause of the running toilet. Fortunately, the flapper is easy enough to replace, if necessary.

It is advisable to flush the toilet only after the lid and flapper have been inspected and have made any necessary repairs. This will stop the wasting of precious water, as well as reduce the headache of dealing with a running toilet.

4. Blocked Toilets

Blocked toilets are another plumbing problem that every homeowner should know about. Blocked toilets can result in a variety of issues, such as slow drainage, frequent and severe overflows, as well as unpleasant odors. Even though blocked toilets are rather simple to detect, it’s crucial to understand how to spot the problem and fix it.

Generally, a clogged toilet is caused by accumulated objects, such as toilet paper, sanitary products, and toys, which block the drainpipe. To address a clogged toilet, it is advisable to first use a plunger, as it can often resolve minor blockages. However, if plunging does not resolve the problem and the toilet remains clogged, it may indicate a more severe issue that needs immediate repair. In such cases, it is best advised to contact a qualified plumber for further professional assistance. Professional toilet repair services provided by qualified plumbers ensure a thorough assessment of the situation and the application of appropriate solutions. Attempting to resolve complex toilet blockages without the expertise of qualified plumbers may lead to further damage. Therefore seeking professional help can ensure the efficient resolution of the issue.

5. Water Heater Malfunctions

When a water heater experiences a malfunction, it can lead to various issues like a lack of hot water, no water flow at all, or inconsistent temperatures from different taps. To forestall such problems, it’s crucial to regularly maintain your water heater. This includes tasks like draining and flushing the water tank annually, as well as inspecting the pressure relief valve and anode rod.

Should you notice any unusual sounds or unpleasant odors emanating from the tank, it’s imperative to promptly call a professional. They will not only investigate the cause but also assess the tank’s temperature. In some cases, they might recommend a Water Heater Replacement, especially if it’s over a decade old, as older units tend to encounter more issues and are less energy-efficient.

By staying vigilant about the condition of your water heater, you can steer clear of inconvenient and costly repairs, ensuring your household continues to operate seamlessly.

Learn to Spot and Address Common Plumbing Problems Today

Every homeowner should be familiar with the fundamentals of common plumbing problems, including clogged pipes, leaking and burst pipes, running toilets, blocked toilets, and malfunctioning water heaters.

Learn how to recognize them so you can tackle an issue quickly and not be surprised by any huge plumbing bills. Stay in the know about plumbing to keep your home running smoothly.

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