A smooth-running and flawless plumbing system is a joy, as dealing with plumbing issues in your home is never fun. The pipes in your home can last for decades but accumulated corrosion, decay, and rust will eventually wear them off to the point where they require replacement. Sinks with standing water, dripping faucets, and gurgling toilets may seem like minor inconveniences, but they are disasters waiting to happen.
A plumbing disaster can be very costly since you’ll be forced to replace the plumbing system and repair the damaged property. Fortunately, there are several warning signs of severely worn-out pipes; thus, you don’t have to wait for a flood of water, leaks, or even raw sewage spewing into your home to take action. Below are some telltale signs that your plumbing system needs a redo:
- Low Water Pressure
One of the early warning signs of plumbing issues is a decrease in the water pressure. You should first check the water heater as it can cause a sudden loss of water pressure when it malfunctions. A slower change in the pressure could indicate a leaky pipe. Old iron pipes can also cause a reduction in pressure when they get clogged with rust over time, reducing the amount of water moving through them.
- Leaks
The pipes in your home are hidden very well. Therefore, warning signs for pipe leaks are challenging to detect. It’s also not easy to see any signs of moisture, but backed-up drains and low water pressure can indicate pipe problems. Clogs can restrict the normal high pressure in your pipes as they get bigger, causing them to tear or even rupture under pressure. If you notice signs of moisture on the walls, ceilings, or floor where the pipes pass or the loss of water pressure, a professional like Fergusons can help can assist you in checking your home’s plumbing systems.
- Discolored Water
Water from faucets and other outlets may appear discolored as it passes through corroded pipes. When the water coming out of your pipes is murky, it should be a cause for concern since it might compromise your family’s health. If you look closely, the water’s color can reveal what might be causing the issue. Whatever the cause, it’s not suitable for consumption. Thus, replacing your pipes to get clean water would be best.
- Clogged Or Slow Drains
A clogged drain may not appear to be a major problem, but it may indicate a more significant condition. Poor pipe ventilation might result in clogged and slow-moving drains. Plant roots are an unseen problem that causes clogged or slow drains. If the pipe’s vents are blocked or damaged, you’ll need a plumbing professional to assess the issue and make the necessary repairs.
- Pipe Material
If your house was built before 1960, you’re most likely to have galvanized or lead pipes, which are all bad news. Galvanized pipes rust easily, causing water discoloration, leaks, and uneven pressure. At the same time, lead pipes are toxic and might look bumpy, discolored, dimpled, and flaky in some areas. If you have any of these two types of pipes, you’ll need your plumbing system to be checked immediately.
- Discolored Pipes
If there are any signs of discoloration on the pipes in your basement or under your kitchen sink, then a strong indication of moisture is present. The cause might be dripping from the drain line or sink or a more severe issue such as a slow leaking supply line. Put it on top of your to-do list if it’s the latter. Supply lines are usually pressurized, so a slow leak can quickly become a big mess.
- Sewer Odor
If something smells terrible despite cleaning your home thoroughly, you can blame it on your plumbing. Biological growth from water pooling in your pipes can cause smells. However, if you smell raw sewage, it could mean that your sewer line might be broken, blocked, or cracked. Call a plumbing professional immediately if the bad smell persists.
- Unusually High Utility Bills
A sudden spike in your water bill is a pain in your wallet and a clear sign that something in your plumbing system needs to be fixed. If you haven’t done anything to justify the increase in water usage (such as watering the lawn or filling up the pool), you need to troubleshoot to find out the problem. Typically, a toilet that constantly runs is one of the leading contributors to a higher water cost.
Conclusion
The type of pipes and their age are good indicators of whether or not it’s time to replace them. It would be more reliable to request a professional plumber to inspect your system if you notice the signs of malfunction mentioned above. They will recommend the appropriate cause of action, whether replacing, repairing, or upgrading the damaged components. Plumbing professionals will help restore your plumbing system’s convenience so you can enjoy the merits of new plumbing technologies, including water efficiency and aesthetics.
