As a homeowner, you may not give much thought to your plumbing — that is, until something goes wrong. From leaks and clogs to broken pipes and faulty water heaters, there are a number of issues that can go wrong with your plumbing system. As your local plumbing company, to help you be better prepared, here is a look at some of the most common plumbing issues and what you can do to fix them.
#1. Leaking Pipes
One of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face is leaking pipes. While a small leak may not seem like a big deal, it can actually waste a lot of water over time and lead to expensive repair bills. In some cases, leaks can also cause significant damage to your home, so it’s important to address them as soon as possible. There are a few different reasons why pipes might leak, including loose connections, cracks or holes in the pipe, and corrosion. If you suspect you have a leak, first try to determine where the leak is coming from. This can be tricky, as leaks can often be hidden behind walls or under floors. Once you’ve located the source of the leak, turn off the water supply to that area of the house. This will help prevent further damage. Then, call a licensed plumber to come and make the necessary repairs. By taking action quickly, you can help minimize the amount of damage caused by a leaking pipe.
#2. Slow or Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues that homeowners face. Over time, hair, soap scum, and other debris can build up in your drains, causing them to become clogged. As a result, water can no longer flow freely through the drain, causing it to back up. In some cases, clogged drains can also lead to flooding. If you notice that your drains are starting to back up, taking action immediately is important. The first step is to try using a plunger or drain snake to dislodge the debris. If this doesn’t work, you may need to call a professional plumber to clear the drain for you. In either case, taking care of a clogged drain as soon as possible is the best way to prevent further damage.
#3. Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet is a common plumbing issue that can often be fixed with a simple repair. The most common cause of a dripping faucet is a worn washer. Over time, the washer wears down and becomes brittle, allowing water to seep through the opening. In some cases, the problem can be resolved by simply replacing the washer. However, if the problem is more severe, it may require the replacement of the entire faucet. A dripping faucet can waste a lot of water over time, so it’s important to fix the problem as soon as possible. If you’re not sure how to fix a dripping faucet, you can always call a plumber for assistance.
#4. Running Toilets
If you have a running toilet, it’s definitely a nuisance. Not only is the constant sound annoying, but it can also waste a lot of water. In fact, a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, which can really add up over time. This problem occurs when water leaks from the tank into the bowl, wasting water and causing your water bill to increase. In most cases, the root cause of a running toilet is a faulty or worn flapper. The flapper is a rubber seal that sits over the drain hole in the bottom of the tank. When you flush the toilet, the flapper lifts up, allowing water to flow into the bowl. However, if the flapper is damaged or does not create a tight seal, water will leak out of the tank and into the bowl. Fortunately, replacing a damaged flapper is a relatively easy and inexpensive repair. In most cases, you can do it yourself with just a few tools and some basic DIY skills.
#5. Jammed Garbage Disposal
A jammed garbage disposal is a common plumbing issue that can be caused by a variety of things, including debris build-up, foreign objects, and corrosion. The first step in fixing a jammed disposal is to hit the reset button. If that doesn’t do the trick, turn off the power to the unit. Next, use an Allen wrench to loosen the disposal’s mounting bolts so that you can access the blades. Once the blades are exposed, you can use a pair of pliers to remove any debris or objects that may be causing the jam. Finally, use a brush to clean away any corrosion or build-up on the blades. Once everything is clean and clear, you can reassemble the disposal and turn the power back on and give it a try again. If it’s still not working, the motor might be burned out and needs to be replaced. With a little bit of time and effort, you can easily fix a jammed garbage disposal.
Disclaimer: If you don’t have experience fixing any of these common plumbing issues or feel uncomfortable, please call a professional. Your safety is a top priority, and you don’t want to cause further damage.
Your Local Plumbing Company
M5 Plumbing Services Inc. is a locally owned and operated company that has been providing high-quality plumbing services to customers in Vancouver, WA, and surrounding areas for many years. We are a customer-focused company that is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer satisfaction. Our experienced and highly qualified plumbers are experts in all aspects of plumbing and can provide you with a quick and efficient solution to your plumbing needs. We offer a wide range of plumbing services for both residential and commercial customers, so you can be sure that we have the right solution for your particular needs. We also offer a number of value-added services, such as cost-savings tips and a customer-friendly approach, that will make your experience with us even more enjoyable. If you are looking for the best plumber in Vancouver, WA, look no further than M5 Plumbing Services Inc.!