Did you know there were approximately 480,600 plumbers in the US in 2020? Many of the professionals in this enormous market will deal with residential plumbing issues each day. Unfortunately, they see some common problems, and you might want to take steps to avoid needing the services of a home plumber to fix these complications.
But, what are the most frequent issues in the residential plumbing industry, and what action do you need to take if they occur on your property?
Read on for a quick guide to some of the most common home plumbing issues.
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Dripping Faucets
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Many people will have experience with a dripping faucet and be familiar with the sometimes irritating noise. But, a dripping faucet can also waste a considerable amount of water and increase your yearly bills. An internal washer that is stiff or worn is often the cause, and a DIY enthusiast may be able to solve this problem themselves.
If the issue persists, hiring a plumber to take a more in-depth look might be the best option.
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Clogged Drains
Clogged drains in sinks, showers, and baths are common, but you are unlikely to need to call a home plumber as it’s easy to use a plunger to remove the blockage. Consider using a drain hair catcher to reduce the risk of this problem occurring in the first place.
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Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure may be the result of leaking pipes, or perhaps a clogged aerator if the issue is in the shower. If your pipes are the problem, calling a plumber is essential. But, if the aerator is not operating properly, soaking it in vinegar to clean the appliance may be an easy solution.
If this doesn’t work, the problem may lie elsewhere, and immersing the showerhead in vinegar could be an effective option.
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Broken Hot Water Heater
If you have a faulty hot water heater, it’s a good idea to call a residential plumber to inspect the appliance. The problem might be with the pilot light, the thermostat, or there could be a build-up of sediment in the tank that is preventing your water heater from working effectively.
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Jammed Garbage Disposal
Some more substantial foods such as potato peels can jam a garbage disposal, as can running the device without water. The good news is that pressing the reset button may be all that is needed. If this doesn’t work, you might have to open your garbage disposal up, but it’s unlikely you’ll need the services of a professional plumber.
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Sewer System Failure
You may suspect you have a backup in your sewer system if there is a smell of human waste or your drains or toilet are not working correctly. Call a plumber immediately to find the location of the blockage so you can determine if it is the responsibility of the water service to fix the issue or if it is up to you.
Lower Your Chances of Experiencing Plumbing Problems
You can reduce the risk of plumbing problems occurring by asking a professional to carry out a maintenance review. But, sometimes there will be no other option than to call out a plumber to fix an issue such as low water pressure or a dripping faucet.
While you may be able to fix problems such as a clogged drain yourself, don’t delay in hiring a professional when required. Your quick action could prevent the complication from getting worse.
If you’ve found this article helpful, be sure to browse more great posts in our Home Improvement section before you go.
