When it comes to your plumbing system, it can be easy to write off minor problems as nothing more than small inconveniences. But even seemingly small plumbing issues like a running toilet or a dripping faucet can grow worse and leave you with more serious problems down the road.
That’s why, if you ever find yourself dealing with any of the plumbing issues below, you need to call a plumber stat.
1. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is a drag, but it’s not as minor of an issue as you might assume. When your water coming from your faucets looks more like a dribble than a strong stream, that may be indicative of any of the following serious problems with your plumbing system:
● Pipe leaks
● Pipe blockages
● Corroded pipes
● Damaged valves or pressure regulator
If any of the above issues are causing the drop in your water pressure, they’ll only get worse with time if you ignore them. And DIY fixes won’t solve any of these issues long term. The solution? Call a plumber who can diagnose and fix the culprit behind your low water pressure stat.
2. Leaky Faucet
A constantly dripping tap is annoying, sure, but it’s more than just irritating. A leaky faucet can cause serious water damage depending on its severity and the amount of time you allow it to leak. Even small leaks can waste a considerable amount of water, too (up to 3,000 gallons a year!) which will force you to pay higher water bills than you really need to.
Since leaky faucets can have a few possible culprits, it’s best to rely on a plumber to diagnose and fix this issue.
3. Running Toilet
A single running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per month, but that’s not all. If your toilet is leaking and that’s what’s causing it to run constantly, it may also be causing potentially serious water damage in areas you can’t see (like your floorboards).
A running toilet is another plumbing problem with several possible causes, so it’s best to trust this repair to a plumber as well.
4. Backed-Up Drains
If you ever notice water backing up into your tub or shower when you flush the toilet, or water backing up through your floor drains, you need to call a plumber immediately. Backed-up water is a telltale sign of a mainline sewer problem, and although the issue is typically caused by a simple blockage in the line, it’s not something you can fix on your own.
In some cases, backed-up sewer lines can be the result of a tree root intrusion in the line itself since the pipe is buried underground. The issue can also be caused by a septic tank that’s too full or clogged. Since it’s virtually impossible to determine what’s causing the issue without a professional inspection, you’ll need to call in a pro to handle this job.
5. Damaged Shut-Off Valves
Each faucet in your home should have two shut-off valves — one for the cold tap and one for the hot. You should also have a main water shut-off valve that cuts water flow to your entire house.
If any of these valves are damaged or completely broken, your home could be suffering from sneaky water leaks that are costing you money every month. And until you determine whether you’re dealing with leaks, you’ll continue flushing money down the drain around the clock.
If your main shut-off valve is damaged or broken, it’s imperative that you have it repaired as promptly as possible. In the event your home suffers a burst pipe or some other serious plumbing emergency, turning off the main shut-off valve is the best way to stop the flow of water. That’s especially true when you can’t locate the source of the leak immediately.
If the valve is damaged and you can’t turn it off, your home could sustain serious water damage that necessitates costly remediation.
6. Scale Buildup
If you have hard water — and you don’t have a water softener or don’t maintain your softener properly — chances are there’s mineral (scale) buildup in your pipes. Scale can also accumulate in plumbed appliances such as your dishwasher and washing machine.
While mineral buildup may not seem like much of an issue, it can certainly cause problems when it becomes excessive. Over time, scale accumulation in your pipes can cause low water pressure, blockages, corrosion, and if gets really bad, pipe rupture. Mineral buildup can also decrease the efficiency of any water-using appliances you own and reduce their functional lifespan by several years.
If you notice considerable scale in your plumbing system, or if your water pressure has dipped over time and you don’t know why, you can try using white vinegar to tackle the problem. However, it’s likely in your best interest to consult a plumbing professional on the best course of action to get rid of that buildup as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Need Plumbing Repairs Near Wisconsin Rapids? Contact Steve’s Plumbing & Heating
If you’re dealing with minor plumbing issues, don’t ignore them! Get in touch with our team at Steve’s Plumbing & Heating so we can diagnose the problem and get your plumbing system functioning properly. No matter what type of plumbing repair you need, our fully licensed, insured, and bonded plumbers can take care of it. We serve homes throughout Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau, Stevens Point, Marshfield, and the surrounding areas.
To get started, request a free estimate online or give us a call today at 715-421-1800. You can also message us with any questions or concerns, and we’ll be in touch!