Plumbing issues are the last thing you want happening in the middle of the night. And while not every plumbing issue will require a midnight call to your favourite plumbing technician, it’s vital that if you have a plumbing issue, that it must be fixed as soon as possible. Doing this will prevent minor issues from turning into huge pricey ones or conserve your cash on your energy costs.
Here are some of the most typical plumbing issues and how you may repair them yourself to prevent further damage before we arrive.
The Top 3 Typical Plumbing Issues
Running Taps
A tap running out of control may seem like a plumbing emergency, but the first step is to find your main supply and turn off your water. Modern sinks and basins likewise have a regional shutoff, so you may not need to shut down the water to the rest of the house. However, for complex issues like a running toilet or a persistently leaking tap, it’s often best to seek professional assistance to avoid further complications.
Leaky faucets are common plumbing problems, often caused by worn-out washers. While this can be a simple fix for someone with an adjustable spanner, ensuring a healthy plumbing system sometimes requires the expertise of a professional plumber. If you’re dealing with corroded pipes or mineral deposits, which can restrict water flow and cause low pressure or other issues, professional help might also be necessary.
For leaky fixtures, shut off the water supply from outside and turn on the tap to drain the remaining water out of the pipes. If you’re confident in your skills, remove the tap knobs or handles and use the spanner to remove the stem and loosen the valve seat. Replace the old washer and O-rings, clean everything, and replace the worn-out washer with a new one. After reassembling, turn on your main water system to ensure proper functioning. For persistent issues or complex repairs, always rely on a professional to keep your plumbing in top shape.
Obstructed Drains – Partial and Fully Obstructed
Clogged drains are also common plumbing issues. While chemical drain cleaners are often used, a drain snake or baking soda can be effective at clearing simple clogs. Slow drainage in the bathroom sink or kitchen sink might indicate a clogged drain, potentially caused by food scraps or food particles. Clogged toilets or running toilets can lead to significant issues, especially if the fill valve, flapper valve, or chain length is not the correct size. These toilet problems can lead to higher water bills, so it’s important to address them quickly.
Blocked drains can also signal more severe problems lurking in the sewer lines. Regular inspections are crucial to identify potential problems like sewer line issues or corroded pipes before they reach a critical stage. In older homes, sewer systems and septic systems may require immediate attention if there’s standing water or if strange noises come from the pipes, which can indicate sewer line problems or leaky pipes.
Every house should have an inexpensive plunger you can use to work debris loose so it can be washed away. If you can’t clear your obstructed drains, The Brisbane Plumbers will be more than happy to examine your pipelines. In fact, if you think you have blocked drains, The Brisbane plumbers are experts in fixing this problem. Check out our blocked drain service page.
Clogged Toilets
Toilets that won’t flush are another worrying scenario you may deal with. Nevertheless, even here, there are still some things you can try yourself. A toilet plunger may maximise debris locked in the pipes.
Due to the fact that it can’t produce an excellent sufficient seal in a toilet bowl, the plunger you utilise in your cooking area sink won’t be appropriate. Make sure you use the best plunger for the task. You can also utilise an auger (snake pipe cleaner) to break up any clogs so they can move down the pipe.
Preventative Measures
Blocked drains can also signal more severe problems lurking in the sewer lines. Regular inspections are crucial to identify potential problems like sewer line issues or corroded pipes before they reach a critical stage. In older homes, sewer systems and septic systems may require immediate attention if there’s standing water or if strange noises come from the pipes, which can indicate sewer line problems or leaky pipes.
Leaky taps, dripping faucets, or water leaks from a leaking hose bibb can cause water damage if left unchecked. Excessive water pressure or high water pressure can damage the plumbing system, leading to an underlying leak or leaky fixtures. In some cases, a pressure-reducing valve or pressure relief valve may need to be installed to prevent excessive water pressure from causing damage.
Water heaters, particularly older models, can cause insufficient hot water or low water pressure due to mineral deposits in the water lines or a faulty pilot light. Not all water heaters are built the same, and some may require professional help when they stop providing hot water. If your water heater is struggling, it might be time to call a plumber to check the water flow and water pressure.
Sump pumps are another critical component in preventing water damage, especially during heavy rain. If your sump pump isn’t working correctly, it could lead to standing water or flooding. A comprehensive guide to common plumbing problems would advise regular drain cleaning and the use of a drain catch to prevent foreign objects like toilet paper or food scraps from clogging drains.
If you experience a plumbing emergency, such as toilet leaks, clogged toilets, or leaky pipes, immediate attention from a licensed plumber is necessary. Temporary fixes like using a drain snake or unclogging a toilet may work in the short term, but professional assistance is needed for more significant issues, like a damaged sewer line or worn-out copper pipes. When potential causes of plumbing problems arise, it’s always best to get professional help to avoid costly plumbing repairs in the long run, giving you peace of mind knowing your plumbing system will function correctly.
The majority of plumbing issues are not an emergency, and in a lot of cases, you might not even be required to call The Brisbane Plumbers. If you can not repair the problem yourself or it is an emergency that might trigger extreme damage, don’t hesitate to give us a call, day or night. We have the latest equipment and are trained in a variety of specialised plumbing areas. So don’t risk trying it yourself, and make sure you reach out to a professional who can get the job done quickly, safely, and without any additional stress.