In the world of homeownership, plumbing issues can often cause unexpected headaches and disruptions. From leaky faucets to clogged drains, the struggles can be endless. Plumbing issues can become a nightmare if not handled well and therefore this blog details the top plumbing issues that homeowners frequently encounter and provides valuable tips on how to prevent them. 

Even after reading this list, It can be a lot of work to fix these issues but we can assure you that our practical solutions help you to save your precious time, money, and sanity.  The article also contains things that can be considered proactive maintenance when it comes to plumbing, and we hope anyone reading it can solve these very common plumbing problems and enjoy a worry-free home.

The top plumbing issues and what you should do about it

Following are the most common plumbing issues one needs to worry about, their common warning signs and how to fix them.

• Leaking faucets

 Leaky faucets are easily the most common plumbing issue faced by homeowners, and can be caused by a variety of factors such as worn-out washers, damaged O-rings or loose parts with the cause of the issue mostly unapparent. Fixing a leaking faucet can be as simple as replacing a washer or O-ring, but the problem persisting is a big sign that one must call in a professional to diagnose and repair the issue. Ignoring a leaking faucet is not recommended - it wastes a lot of water that otherwise can be saved and also leads to more serious plumbing problems down the line which can increase repair costs.

• Bursting pipes

A burst pipe can cause significant damages to a home, and it is a sign to immediately turn off the main water supply to conserve water and call a professional plumber. This is because the plumber almost always has to repair or replace the damaged section(which takes specialized tools and expertise to do) of the pipe. To prevent such things from happening in the first place, it is important to take preventative measures which can depend on many things. These can be things like insulating pipes in colder climates, and having regular check ups to identify things like cracks and weak joints.

• Blocked drains

Blocked drains can be a frustrating issue that will lead to slow drainage and unpleasant odors if not dealt with. In less severe cases, blocked drains can be cleared by using things like plungers;  but it may require the help of a professional plumber when that doesn’t work. It is also important to address the issue quickly to keep your home functioning well. To prevent blocked drains, it's important to use things like drain screens to catch hair and other debris in sinks and showers and prevent anything clogging it.

• Water heater leakages

Water heater leakages can be caused by a variety of factors such as a faulty pressure relief valve, corroded pipes, or sediment build-up inside the tank. Fixing a water heater leak may involve replacing a damaged component or flushing out sediment from the tank. However, if the leak is more severe, it may be time to replace the entire water heater, which can only be done by seasoned professionals. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent water heater leakages and ensure your system is running efficiently.

• Gas leaks

Gas leaks can be a dangerous issue that requires immediate attention. Signs of a gas leak can include a strong gas odour, hissing sounds, and dead plants or vegetation around gas lines. If a homeowner suspects a gas leak, it's important to evacuate your home and call your gas company and a professional plumber immediately. A plumber can identify and repair the source of the gas leak, and take preventative measures to ensure the issue doesn't happen again in the future.

• Low water pressure

Low water pressure will be a big problem if not fixed and can be unpredictable in ways that it does not appear to have a proper cause. Usually the causes can include clogged pipes and issues with plumbing components, if your pump appears to be intact and without damage. In some cases, the issue may be with the water supply itself - but all of these usually require the help of a professional to diagnose and fix it, as all of it requires technical expertise way above the level of the usual homeowner.

How professionals can help

When it comes to fixing any of the above issues, professionals will have better tools and expertise necessary than regular homeowners. A professional plumber for example can ensure that the faucet is properly installed in addition to just quick-fixing it and can also identify and repair other issues a homeowner may not know about. Additionally, professional plumbers can perform regular maintenance checks on your plumbing system to help prevent problems from occurring.

Regular maintenance check ups include inspecting pipes and drains, checking for leaks, and replacing dysfunctioning parts of the systems so that they function properly - all of which are technically challenging and therefore best left to professionals. Homeowners can also get tips on how to maintain their plumbing system during such checkups. This includes general things like being mindful of what goes down the drain and may include unique things specific to your home. Homeowners can save themselves time, money, and headaches down the road using such professionals.

Conclusion

As you can see, plumbing issues are a common problem that many homeowners face. However, with proper maintenance and preventative measures, these issues can be avoided. Regularly checking for leaks, maintaining pipes and drains, and being cautious of what goes down the drain can go a long way in preventing plumbing problems. It is also important to have a trusted plumbing company on call for emergencies. At Worldwide Services, we offer reliable and professional plumbing services to homeowners. Don't wait until a plumbing issue arises; contact us today to ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly.