With a multitude of plumbing problems possible with the home, it would be helpful to know of the types of things to look out for so that we can try to prevent or minimise the amount of damage that could be caused, saving us money on those larger repairs. Today we will run through the 6 most common plumbing problems, explain how they can occur within our homes and the tell-tell signs of such issues.
- Dripping faucets
If you are noticing a rise in your water bill, it may be due to dripping faucets. These are most commonly caused by worn out washers which will need replacing. However, there are a minority of dripping faucets which are due to incorrect installation or corrosion which would need professional attention by someone with the correct tools.
- Leaking pipes
Being a common fault in plumbing work, these leaking pipes can be caused by a number of options, such as:
- Corrosion
- Joint damage between pipes
- Incorrect installation
- High water pressure
Pipes showing signs of this fault will need professional attention fast to ensure that no water damage occurs within your home or causes further damage to your plumbing system.
- Clogged or running toilets
You may find that the water in your toilet is constantly running, or alternatively, that it’s clogged and the water is unable to drain. A clogged toilet is one of the simpler problems to fix, often involving a plunger. However, a running toilet could require more work, often due to the result of a faulty flapper valve. If you notice that your water bills are increasing or can hear a sound of running water from the tank, you may wish to call a plumber who will quickly and efficiently check for leaks or faults within the pipe work.
- Decreasing water pressure
Clogs, leaks or corrosion within your pipes can result in low water pressure. This is an easier issue to spot as it will become increasingly obvious while using the bath, shower or sink when the flow of the water slows down, potentially becoming only drips. However, this doesn’t mean that it has a simple fix and often is the result of clogged sewer pipes and so would need a professional to assess the base of the problem before attempting to adjust it.
- Water heater faults
Hot water is something we take for granted each day within our homes, and often catches us out when we begin our shower at a satisfying temperature and end it with water temperatures that steal your breath and send you running for a warm towel. When your water heater becomes faulty, it is likely to be caused by a build-up of sediment, corrosion, loose electrical connections or issues with the thermostat. Either way, it is safest to call for a professional to inspect and assess your water heater.
- Clogged drains
If you notice that water is struggling to drain away at the speed in which it usually does, it may be due to a clogged drain. As a less complex issue, this is one that you may be able to solve yourself with some home remedies to remove hair or soap from your plugs. If these don’t seem to solve your problem, then it may be time to call for a plumber and get a deeper look into the base of the issue and fix any underlying faults.
If you are concerned about the plumbing in your home and feel that it needs to be assessed by a professional, get in touch with our friendly team at Platinum Plumbers on 020 8855 0361 or drop us an email at to arrange a home visit.
