Most plumbing issues are just a nuisance: an annoying faucet drip, a showerhead that isn’t providing powerful flow, and more. However, there are many seemingly innocuous problems that could actually pose a bigger threat to your home and even your health than you may realize.
Leaks
If you’ve got a leak somewhere, you should be paying attention to more than just the extra you’re spending on your water bill. Unresolved leaks can cause water damage, especially in walls and floors. If the drywall and other structural materials become saturated, they may rot and develop mold. Mold spores can make residents sick, while rotten structural supports may eventually threaten the stability of the building itself.
Temperature
Another commonly overlooked danger within a plumbing system is its control over temperature. If a water heater stops functioning correctly, you might end up with a scalded hand, or you might not realize you don’t have hot water until it’s too late. At best, your family will have to deal with cold showers (which aren’t safe for people with certain heart and lung conditions). At worst, your hot water could vanish during a terrible cold snap like the one in 1985 that dropped local temperatures to a shocking five degrees below zero. It’s imperative that your water heater stays in good condition so that it can keep your family safely warm whenever necessary!
Backups
When people think of plumbing, they envision water and waste flowing through the pipes and away from the building. That’s certainly the way it’s supposed to work, but unfortunately, things sometimes go wrong. A sewer backup caused by damage in the sewer line is more than just a stinky mess—it’s also a big health hazard.
Backed up waste carries bacteria and other unwanted microorganisms that can make people and pets sick. Conditions ranging from skin infections to gastroenteritis are just the tip of the iceberg when plumbing problems reach into the sewage system.
How to Know If You Need Plumbing Repair
Given how many serious things can happen because of even small plumbing issues, it’s important to be able to spot a problem while it’s still small. Some of the main signs you should be looking for in your home or business are:
- Leaks
- Drips
- Water pressure that is too low or that changes
- Slow or blocked drains
- Water that is too cold, too hot, or unable to keep a consistent temperature
- Noises in the pipes
- Running water (e.g., from faucets) that is regularly interrupted by puffs of air
- Unusual smells
- Visible water damage
If you’ve seen any of these signs, or if you’ve noticed something a little more unusual and aren’t sure whether it’s a problem, it’s best to contact the pros. The team at Mr. Handyman can give you a thorough explanation of what might be going on and your best options to fix it.