When plumbing problems go unresolved, they can quickly lead to expensive damage. It’s important to recognize and act on the earliest signs of an issue, such as wet spots, so you can have them repaired before the problem worsens.
From clogged drains to sewage backflow, here are 7 scary plumbing issues that can haunt your home this October.
Clogged Pipes
Clogged drains and pipes can cause a range of problems. They can lead to low water pressure, slow drainage, and even a complete lack of water flow. In addition, they often require professional plumbing help to be fixed. Clogs can be caused by all sorts of things, from food scraps to stray toys. They can also be the result of a root blockage. It’s important to take care of these issues before they get out of control.
Homeowners can keep an eye out for signs of a pipe problem, such as wet drywall or warped flooring. These can indicate that there is a hidden leak in the wall or floor beneath. If left unchecked, these leaks can escalate to severe water damage, rot and mold growth.
In most cases, clogs are a result of buildup or excess dirt. However, they can sometimes be the result of a more serious issue such as a broken or collapsed pipe. It is a good idea to invest in a drain cover and to regularly flush your drains with non-corrosive chemicals or homemade solutions. These will prevent dirt and debris from accumulating in your drains. It is also a good idea to have a plumber inspect your pipes every couple of years. They can recommend maintenance solutions, such as Hercules Root Destroyer, that can stop the growth of roots in external drain lines.
Sewage Backflow
Sewage backflow is a major health hazard, as the water contains harmful bacteria, chemicals, and waste. It also carries viruses that can cause illnesses from gastroenteritis to more serious diseases like hepatitis and cholera. If you get sewage backflow in your home, you’ll need to have the affected areas pumped and thoroughly disinfected.
Unlike sewer line blockages, which are typically caused by clogs, backflow is usually due to a sudden drop in pressure. The drop is usually in your potable (clean) water lines, and it causes the other parts of the pipes to start flowing backwards as they attempt to compensate for the loss of pressure. The city sewer system can also be the source of sewage backflow, especially if it becomes surcharged with too much water during a flood or after heavy rains.
You can prevent this by having a backwater valve installed in your home, which is usually required for homes with basement floors drains and/or fixtures that are below the next upstream manhole’s elevation. This device is composed of multiple check valves that close if there is a drastic change in water pressure that triggers backflow. These devices should be tested annually by a professional plumber to ensure that they’re working correctly. If you see any signs of a backflow problem, such as water coming up through floor drains or gurgling sounds from toilets, call a backflow prevention expert right away.
Creepy Crawlies
As scary as they are, creepy crawlies – silverfish, firebrats, millipedes and centipedes – actually have a pretty good reason to live in our homes and offices. These nocturnal pests prey on despised household insects like spiders, flies and even each other. They also help break down dead trees and plant material, churn up soil, and pollinate flowers. They can even keep weeds in check and provide food for birds, squirrels, rodents and other wild animals.
They’re hard to get rid of completely, but there are steps you can take to make your home less attractive to these unwelcome visitors. Store dry foods in plastic containers rather than cardboard. Keep garbage in tightly closed trash cans and use flypaper and/or scented liners to keep flies from laying eggs that attract more flies. Clean out gutters regularly and trim overhanging tree limbs that can provide an entry point into your home.
No one wants to imagine sewage backing up into their sinks or bathtubs, but this is a real plumbing issue that can happen due to clogged pipes. You can prevent this nightmare scenario by having your drains checked on a regular basis and properly disposing of waste products like feminine hygiene products and wipes. Also, be sure to avoid flushing items that can cause clogs down your toilets. These can include cotton balls, facial tissues, paper towels, floss and food scraps.
Mold Spots
Mold spots are a clear indication of excess moisture. Molds love to grow in damp environments and thrive in dark areas that receive little sunlight, such as attics. They can also grow behind drywall, in ductwork, on wallpaper, and between bathroom tiles. The good news is that most of the time, mold can be easily removed by scrubbing and spraying a 50/50 solution of water and dish soap on non-porous surfaces like counters or cabinets. Molds that cannot be eliminated by scrubbing and spraying, such as Stachybotrys (black mold), require more extensive removal efforts to include cutting out the affected area, vacuuming and sealing the bare spot with a primer and paint.
Mildew and mold aren’t just unsightly; they can also cause health problems. Black mold (Stachybotrys) in particular has been linked to a variety of illnesses, especially respiratory difficulties.
Leaking pipes are a common cause of mold and mildew in the home, particularly when they go undetected for long periods of time. Regular inspections of drain and supply pipes, especially those in bathrooms where a lot of moisture can build up, are key to catching a leak before it causes significant damage and excessive mold growth. Foul-smelling odors from sinks, toilets or showers are also indications of a plumbing issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. A professional camera inspection can pinpoint the problem quickly so you can get it fixed before it gets worse.
Unusual Smells
When it comes to avoiding plumbing problems, being proactive is key. Whether it’s an unexplained spike in your water bill or unusual smells, paying attention to the warning signs and acting quickly can prevent minor issues from becoming major disasters. This blog post will explore seven common signs of hidden plumbing troubles and how to recognize them.
Foul odors aren’t just unpleasant; they can also be dangerous to your health. Foul odors often indicate a problem with your plumbing system, especially if they’re accompanied by other warning signs like wet spots and clanging noises. For example, if you notice an unusual smell that resembles sewage, it could mean that your P-trap has dried out, allowing sewer gases to escape into your home. In addition, a broken sewer line is another culprit that causes foul smells and should be addressed as soon as possible, especially by experts like the Rochester plumbers.
Unusual sounds coming from your pipes can be a warning sign of a serious plumbing problem. Gurgling noises suggest a blockage in your drain while banging and whistling sounds could be caused by high water pressure or lack of air chambers that cushion the shock when the water stops flowing. A professional plumber can help you determine the cause and fix the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. Wet spots on your walls and ceilings are another sign of a plumbing problem. Not only are they unsightly, but they can lead to mold and mildew, which can be detrimental to your health. Wet spots can be easily identified by putting your ear close to the wall and listening for dripping or running water.
Water Leaks
Although most plumbing pipes are incredibly durable and can handle quite a bit of pressure, even the best materials will eventually break down. When this happens, it can result in a leak that could affect everything from your home’s foundation to its interior walls and floors. The longer these issues go unaddressed, the more extensive the damage can be and the pricier your repair bill will be.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent water leaks, including ensuring your plumbing system is updated as needed and regularly inspecting for leaks. You can also look for signs of leaking such as dark spots in the wall or floor and a drop in your water pressure.
If you think you have a water leak, it’s important to take action right away and call IERNA’s plumbing experts for prompt leak detection and repair services. We have all the tools and training necessary to find even the most stubborn water leaks and ensure your plumbing is in good shape for years to come. Contact us today to schedule your next plumbing appointment!