If you’ve noticed changes to your home plumbing, diagnosing the issue is important. Plumbing issues can lead to water damage and mold growth, so you’ll want to make repairs quickly. Here are a few common signs of a plumbing problem in your home.
1. Strange Noises from the Pipes
If you hear noises in your pipes or fixtures – like banging, gurgling, or whistling noises. The cause could be due to air trapped in a water line or mineral buildup inside your pipes. Either way, it’s important to call a professional plumber as soon as possible to troubleshoot the issue and make repairs.
2. Unpleasant Odors
If you smell something odd from the kitchen or bathroom drains, this is usually due to bacteria buildup in the drain or pipe. A smell might indicate a clog is blocking water drainage and needs to be cleared. Alternatively, the p-trap may be dry, allowing sewer odors into your home. Talk to your plumber about recommendations for repairs.
3. Clogged Drains & Toilets are Signs of a Plumbing Problem
One of the most common signs of a plumbing problem is frequent clogs and backups in toilets and drains throughout the home. Clogs are usually due to items that don’t belong in the pipes (hair, food particles, grease, etc.), but they can also be caused by broken pipes or tree roots growing into the plumbing. If you experience frequent clogs with no identifiable source, it’s time to call for help. Slow drains throughout the home may indicate the septic tank needs to be emptied or could signify a major blockage due to tree roots affecting the pipes.
4. Low Water Pressure
A sudden decrease in water pressure or no running water indicates that something is not working properly. Low water pressure can result from several factors, including clogged pipes, corroded pipes, air locks in the system, or simply a lack of sufficient water supply from municipal sources. If you notice low water pressure in your home, call a plumber to take a look.
5. Increased Water Bills can be Signs of a Plumbing Problem
Another sign of a possible plumbing problem is a high water bill. Hidden leaks in pipes or toilets or malfunctioning appliances – like the dishwasher or washing machine – can lead to costly monthly bills. If your bill is high, despite making no changes in your daily habits, this warrants further investigation. To determine the source of the problem, inspect the plumbing in your home.
- Check exposed pipes for signs of leaks, especially near connection points.
- Inspect cupboards beneath sinks for damp spots or mold growth.
- Look for cracks in pipes.
- Pay attention to areas with musty smells.
- Don’t ignore bubbling paint or wallpaper, as this can indicate moisture issues.
These are signs there may be an undetected leak somewhere within your home’s plumbing system, costing you money every month.
Your home’s plumbing plays an integral role in a functioning household. Your family needs running water for showers and baths, preparing hot meals, and cleaning the dishes. Keep your eyes open for signs indicating something is wrong, and call a plumber to make repairs.
Phoenix Property Inspections offers home inspection services in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties in California. Contact us to schedule an appointment.