Plumbing Red Flags Every Homeowner Should Recognize

Unusual spikes in your water bill, when there is no change in water usage, can be a sign of a plumbing leak. The sound of running water, even when all taps are turned off, is another sign. A person might also spot damp or discolored patches on walls and ceilings. The appearance of those patches, for some, could come with a warning sign—a mold or mildew odor. Hearing water run and seeing (or feeling) patches of dampness could indicate the presence of a plumbing leak.

Several potential plumbing problems might indicate low water pressure. Your pipes could be leaking, or they might be partially clogged with sediment, and those problems could restrict the flow of water to your fixtures. More serious might be widespread deficiencies in your home's plumbing, such as corroded or poorly designed pipes. On the other hand, if you have low pressure just in your home but not at the curb, it could indicate a problem with the municipal water supply. But if it’s just you, and your pressure is lower than normal, it’s worth looking into.

A toilet that runs non-stop can waste a tremendous amount of water and cause your utility bills to rise significantly. You may have this problem because your toilet’s flapper valve is broken, the float is set at the wrong height, or the fill tube has some issues. Not only does a continuously running toilet waste water, but it also could be signaling more serious plumbing problems within your bathroom that arc likewise in need of attention. Giving your toilet prompt repairs may keep it from escalating into something more serious.

Water that is discolored or has an unpleasant odor can flag any number of serious plumbing problems. If the water is coming out rusty or brown, it could be clashing with my plumbing pipes, especially if the system is older. If the water has an unpleasant odor, especially one that resembles rotten eggs, it might be contaminated with bacteria or could indicate an issue with my water heater. Whatever the cause, it seems like I need to get it fixed soon if I want to enjoy any peace of mind about the safety of my water supply.

You might have a plumbing problem if your drains clog often. Occasional clogs are manageable and common, but when they happen often, they suggest something more serious. Here are four potential causes of frequent clogs:1. **Pipe Scaling**: Over time, pipes become coated with minerals. Scale buildup can reduce pipe diameter and create areas where clogs are more likely to form.2. **Bad Disposal Habits**: Not using the toilet for its intended purpose and putting too much food down the kitchen sink can lead to frequent clogs.3. **Tree Roots**: If you have large trees with extensive root systems near your sewer line, roots might be causing your persistent drain problems.

Ceilings that have water stains on them are often indicative of plumbing leaks from pipes that run either through the attic or between floors. The first order of business is to inspect the area to see if there are any active leaks. If you do find leaks, you will need to make sure that the situation doesn't get any worse while you consult a good plumber to find and fix the problem. The crucial part of that process—which has the very important end goal of preventing not just further water damage but also mold growth—is to find and repair the source of the plumbing leak.

The recognition of sewer odors emanating from your drains is essential, as it usually points to an underlying plumbing problem. This could be a dried-out p-trap, a cracked sewer vent pipe, or something amiss with the sewer line itself. These odors are surely offensive, but they might also be protective of your health, as their presence could mean that your plumbing is at risk of allowing dangerous gases to get into your home. And of course, what plumbing problem smells good? Identifying and stopping up the source of the odor and restoring your plumbing to good working order will, despite the unappealing nature of sewer smells, likely enhance your health and that of your family.

Unusual sounds that come from your water heater can mean it's in trouble. Noises like rumbling or popping might be caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This can make your water heater work less efficiently and increase the wear on the tank, leading to potential leaks. And if those serious problems are developing, your water heater could be operating on borrowed time, necessitating anything from a repair job to some serious bucks for a forthcoming replacement.

If the water from your faucets isn't coming out at a consistent temperature, it's a sign that either your plumbing system or your water heater is having some issues. And when it comes to the water heater, we've found that the following problems often lead to inconsistent water temps:* Thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) issues* Sediment buildup* Water heater malfunctions

A few key indicators can point to pipe corrosion. They include these: water that’s discolored, frequent leaks you might have to patch, and a drop in water pressure that isn’t normal for your system. You might even see rust or telltale signs of corrosion on the outside of pipes in your home. That can be a pretty serious sign because it suggests that something similar is happening inside the pipes if you can see it happening on the outside. Corroded pipes can and do fail, and when they do, they can cause the kind of water damage that makes your homeowners insurance policy feel like a pretty good investment.