5 Signs Your Old Home’s Plumbing System Needs an Upgrade in Tulsa, OK
It’s extremely common to experience plumbing problems in old homes. While repairs may be possible, it’s often in your best interest to replace the outdated pipes or fixtures causing the issue. Discover five telltale signs that your home is due for plumbing upgrades in this guide from Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric.
We offer premium plumbing services in Tulsa, OK, and are happy to help you overcome these common plumbing problems.
1. You Find Evidence of Pipe Corrosion
Pipes serve as the backbone of your home’s plumbing system. Older homes with outdated galvanized steel or lead pipes can experience the effects of pipe corrosion, including:
- Rust along the pipes
- Discolored water
- Frequent leaks
Don’t ignore these plumbing problems in old homes; instead, have a licensed plumber inspect your system. They’ll evaluate the condition of your pipes and explain how you can benefit from a repiping service. Upgrades are especially important if you have lead pipes since the material can contaminate your water supply as it corrodes and jeopardizes your health.
2. Your Tulsa Home Has Weak Water Pressure
A house with low water pressure might be due to severe corrosion or mineral buildup inside the pipes. Abnormal water pressure levels make it difficult for you to do everything from showering to filling up a water bottle from the tap. Given that the problem often stems from old, corroded pipes, you should consider having an expert replace the materials.
If you’re dealing with low water pressure due to pipe corrosion, it’s likely that the pipes will leak and create water damage in your house. Professional plumbers utilize cutting-edge methods for leak detection to catch the problem early. You can transform your entire plumbing system when you remove the outdated pipes and start over with brand-new equipment.
3. Your Sewer Line Clogs Constantly
Worn-out sewer lines can be the source of several plumbing problems in old homes, particularly clogged drains. Pipe materials can wear down, or years of buildup inside the pipe prevent the proper flow of wastewater. It’s not uncommon for Tulsa homeowners to experience a clogged drain every now and then, but be mindful of the following warning signs:
- Multiple drains in your house clog at the same time.
- You face clogs despite using drain stoppers.
- Foul odors start to waft from your plumbing drains.
A damaged sewer line may even spring a leak that can flood part of your yard. Don’t delay replacing the old pipe, and make your sewer system modern and efficient.
4. You Hear Strange Noises Coming From Your Pipes
Older homes can have creaky floors or make other noises that don’t typically bother you. However, one sound you can’t ignore is a banging noise coming from your pipes. Plumbers will diagnose this as a water hammer, which often precedes unexpected leaks or pipe bursts.
The noise occurs when your pipes experience a sudden change in pressure. Letting that pressure build up inside the pipe increases the chance of it bursting. Not only will the sound become irritating over time, but you also risk serious water damage by ignoring it.
5. Your Water Bills Increase Without Explanation
Did you know that leaky faucets waste hundreds of gallons of water each year? You may not think much of a slow-dripping faucet or a toilet that won’t stop running, but it’s crucial to fix these leaks immediately. However, some leaks are not as easy to locate and may remain hidden beneath your walls or flooring.
Look for evidence of water damage and call a plumber right away. A leak exists somewhere in your house if you notice the following:
- Brownish stains on walls
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Warped or buckling floors
A simple way to assess plumbing problems is to monitor your water consumption. If your water bill significantly increases despite no change in your habits, you need to bring in an expert for a leak detection service. Leaks in homes with outdated plumbing equipment will require an upgrade.
Contact Tulsa’s Trusted Plumbing Contractors for Reliable Replacement Services
If you’re dealing with any of these common plumbing problems in old homes, reach out to Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric. Our licensed technicians can install brand-new pipes and fixtures that will serve you for years to come, as well as answer any questions you have about your HVAC and electrical systems, including reasons why an AC turns off by itself.
Connect with us today to schedule an appointment in Tulsa, Oklahoma, or the surrounding areas.
Cassie Pound is the Vice President of Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric with locations in Tulsa, Glenpool, and Bartlesville, Oklahoma.