Your plumbing system is an essential part of your home, and it can cause big problems if you don’t address them.
There are a number of signs that your plumbing needs attention. If you see or smell any of these, call a plumber to get them fixed before they become an expensive problem.
Water Heater Leaks
If you see water leaking around the bottom of your water heater, this is almost always a sign of a serious problem with the unit. It can be caused by either the drain valve or the tank itself, so a leak like this needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
The first thing to do is to check the drain valve on your water heater. This essential feature is usually located near the floor and features a spigot that resembles the on/off spout of your garden hose.
Second, check the temperature and pressure relief valve, or T&P valve for short. This is a safety device on every water heater, and it’s designed to release water when pressure builds up in the tank.
It’s also a good idea to check the water supply and outlet pipes that connect your hot and cold water heaters. These are often the source of leaks, and can usually be fixed by tightening the connections.
Clogged Drains
You may notice that your shower or bathtub drains slowly or clothes washers or dishwashers are unable to complete their cycles. These are both common signs of a clogged drain.
Often, a clogged drain is the root of a larger plumbing issue. This is especially true in homes that use hard water, as mineral deposits can clog your pipes.
Once this happens, your toilets, sinks and tubs may all begin to slow down. This is usually an early sign that a main sewer line is clogged, and you should call in a professional right away. For help with blocked drains in Adelaide go online and you can find a reputable plumber. This can save you time and money.
A foul odor from the drains is another indicator of a clog. Bacteria, hair and food particles build up in the drains and cause the odor to stay around.
Foul Smells
Foul smells aren’t always easy to ignore, but it’s important to eliminate them as soon as possible. That’s because they can be a sign of a serious plumbing problem that could damage your home or cause health issues.
One of the most common types of foul smells is sulfur, which smells like rotten eggs.
If you notice this smell in your shower, sink or toilet, it’s time to call a plumber for diagnostics and repairs.
The next sign that you might have a plumbing issue is when you start to notice foul odors in your water faucets. This can be caused by a leak in your plumbing or from an issue with your water heater.
When you first notice foul odors in your water, you should run some hot water for a few minutes to see if the problem goes away. If the odors go away when you run water, then it’s likely that your plumbing system is the culprit.
Climbing Water Bill
There is no denying that leaks are one of the most frustrating plumbing problems. Not only are they annoying, but they can also be quite costly to fix. Even small drips can waste up to 20 gallons of water a day. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep your water bill in check.
The simplest solution is to hire a local plumber to conduct a thorough inspection of your system. They will be able to identify the source of your high water bill and help you get it under control. The best part about hiring a professional is that they will be able to tell you how much your bill is saving you each month. This is important information to have on hand as you work to lower your water usage and bills in the future.
The aforementioned best-of-breed water-saving measures include installing water efficient fixtures and a low-flow showerhead. You should also consider the latest in water conservation technology such as smart metering and water-saving appliances to help you save money on your water bill.
