It’s hard to escape plumbing issues as a property owner. They will always occur from time to time. Many homeowners have adopted the approach of ignoring the problem for as long as possible.
However, that approach almost always leads to costlier repairs. You may also end up putting your family’s health at risk.
Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, the leading name for premium plumbing services in Broken Arrow, OK, covers the top signs of bad plumbing you should never ignore. Some of them include the following:
1. Dripping or Running Toilets
A toilet that constantly runs or drips isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It signifies a potential issue with the toilet’s internal components, especially the flapper or fill valve. Ignoring the problem means more wasted water. In a few months, you’d have lost what it cost to fix the problem to a slightly higher water bill.
2. Slow-Draining Sinks and Tubs
Slow-draining sinks and tubs in your kitchen and bathroom are not normal. It usually points to a clog. If you’ve noticed the problem in one sink or tub, then it’s a localized problem. If it affects many fixtures simultaneously, you clearly have a deeper clog in the main drain line.
3. Foul Odors
Foul odors coming up from your drains indicate a clear sign of bad plumbing. If you constantly smell sewage odors around your drains, you have a clog within your plumbing system. You need to call an experienced plumber in Broken Arrow, OK, to evaluate the issue.
4. Rusty or Discolored Water
Rusty or discolored water often points to corrosion in your pipework. It’s common in older homes with galvanized steel pipes. This sign of bad plumbing is one of those you can’t ignore because it will only worsen over time, making safe use of your water more difficult.
5. Water Pressure Fluctuations
Have you noticed a significant decline in the force of the water flowing through your plumbing system? It can be frustrating waiting minutes to fill a bucket when it used to take a few seconds.
Uneven or weak water pressure around your house often indicates a leak, clogged/undersized pipework, or an issue with the pressure regulator valve. An experienced plumber will complete the troubleshooting and recommend the most cost-effective solution.
6. Bubbling or Gurgling Sounds
Do you hear strange noises while using plumbing fixtures? These sounds occur when trapped air tries to force through the water in your pipes. It’s often a clear sign of clogs or, worse, a sewer line backup.
Professionals will need to inspect your system to identify the cause and potential solutions.
7. Visible Leaks
Can you see leaks anywhere around your home? This sign of bad plumbing is one you shouldn’t ignore. Leaks waste water. Depending on where they occur, they can cause significant damage to your home’s foundation, flooring, joists, and more. Therefore, it’s better to address them as quickly as possible.
8. Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls
Water stains on your walls and ceilings are one of the signs of bad plumbing you should never ignore. It often points to hidden leaks behind the walls or slabs.
Ignoring such leaks can prove dangerous because it usually leads to expensive water damage and a host of structural issues. Your indoor air quality will also suffer as mold and mildew thrive in such damp conditions.
If you find water stains on your ceilings and walls, hire a plumber to evaluate the problem and carry out all necessary fixes.
9. Inexplicable Rise in Your Water Bills
Have you noticed a sudden rise in your water bills over the last few months without any major changes to your water usage habits? This often points to hidden plumbing leaks.
You can confirm this diagnosis by listening for the sound of running water with all your faucets and appliances shut off. If you can hear the sound of water running when no one has opened a faucet, you probably have a leak.
An even better way to confirm the leak in your water line involves shutting off the water for an hour and then checking your water meter to see if the readings reflect water usage within your home.
Get Expert Help With Your Plumbing Problems in Broken Arrow, OK
Have you noticed any of the signs of bad plumbing above? Compromising on them is a costly mistake you should avoid.
Call the Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team in Broken Arrow, OK, today at (918) 393-4577 for an accurate diagnosis and a permanent fix.
Further Reading: Top tips for preventing heating problems.
