Common Plumbing Problems

Plumbing systems are one of those utilities that you basically forget until something goes wrong—and when they do, the extent of the disruption can be significant. To prevent costly water damage and potential health and safety hazards, stay vigilant of the following common plumbing issues.

1. Clogged Drain

A clogged drain is one of the most annoying plumbing problems homeowners encounter. It often leads to foul odors and slow drainage and may even attract flies, which increases the risk of contamination and hygiene concerns.

In the kitchen, the common causes of clogged drains include F.O.G. (fat, oil, and grease), food scraps, soap scum, and foreign objects. It’s important to understand that the garbage disposal unit is not a super-powered solution for all waste. Don’t let hard or fibrous foods, coffee grounds, eggshells, and even wooden or plastic utensils go down into it. They’ll not only cause stubborn blockages but also damage the garbage disposal unit itself. Similarly, don’t pour fat, oil, or grease down the sink drain. Instead, ladle them into empty containers, like coffee cans, tightly seal them, and discard them in the trash.

In the bathroom, paper products, wipes, hair, and animal fur are the main causes of blocked drains. The toilet is not designed to eliminate such items. Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper can lead to significant obstructions within the pipes.

Other causes of clogs in the plumbing system include soap scum and mineral deposits. Soap scum is a sticky, filmy residue that results when soap mixes with hard water. This residue clings to the inside of the pipes, narrowing the passageway until it eventually clogs with other wastes. Mineral deposits, on the other hand, occur when hard water leaves behind calcium and magnesium buildup inside pipes, gradually reducing water flow and pressure.

2. Leaks

Did you know that one drip of water per second from any part of your plumbing system can waste over 3,000 gallons of water in a year? Now imagine the extent of damage that much water could cause in your home, not to mention the spike in your water bill.

Leaks can be devastating. Uncontained water encourages the growth of mold and other microorganisms in your home. You’ll notice dark or green spots, depending on the area affected, and a musty smell in your home. Your health may also deteriorate as mold spores are known to cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, skin and eye irritation, and cancer.

Leaks can also weaken your walls and floors. Your foundation will likely develop cracks and structural instability over time because concrete absorbs water and expands. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture causes wood to rot, drywall to weaken, and flooring to warp.

Lastly, leaks that infiltrate walls and ceilings where electrical wiring is present can cause short circuits or power surges. An electrical surge may result in fires or damage to expensive appliances and systems. Someone in your household could also be electrocuted when water pools near outlets or electrical systems.

The common causes of leaks include pipe corrosion, worn-out seals, high water pressure, tree root infiltration, drastic temperature changes, and loose water connectors. Old plumbing systems are more prone to leaks due to years of wear and tear.

3. Faulty Water Heater

Water heaters typically run into a wide range of problems as they age. Temperature-related issues are often the most noticeable indicators that something is wrong. They often result from defective heating elements, especially in electric systems, or a malfunctioning thermostat, which struggles to assess and control water temperature accurately.

Limescale buildup is another common issue, particularly in areas with hard water. Mineral deposits from calcium and magnesium accumulate inside the tank, pipes, and around heating elements. Your heater will start to take longer to heat water because limescale acts as insulation, which prevents the efficient transfer of heat to the water. As deposits grow thicker, water pressure can decrease significantly to a point where water flow becomes completely restricted.

4. Strange Plumbing Sounds

When you hear unusual plumbing noises, think of it as a message from your system that something is amiss and warrants investigation. For example, rattling noises usually mean you have loose pipes shaking and heating nearby walls as water runs through them. Knocking sounds (water hammers) occur when water suddenly stops or changes direction due to high pressure in the pipes. Gurgling sounds, on the other hand, typically indicate a blockage or improper venting in your plumbing system.

Contact Patterson Plumbing for Plumbing Solutions in Greenville

If you are experiencing any of the above issues, call Patterson Plumbing to schedule a professional inspection and find the best solution for your plumbing system. Our highly skilled and experienced plumbers work quickly and efficiently to ensure you can get back to your daily routine without unnecessary disruptions. From drain cleaning to pipe repair to sump pumps, toilets, faucets, showers, and more, we do it all.

Call Patterson Plumbing today and experience top-quality plumbing services in Greenville.