There are quite a few plumbing problems every homeowner is likely to encounter from time to time. These can range from minor issues like a dripping faucet to a burst pipe that can cause extensive damage to the property. Some of the most common plumbing issues you should look out for and how you can minimize their occurrence:

Dripping Faucets

Unfortunately, dripping faucets are not only irritating and stain your bathroom or kitchen sink but also potentially waste hundreds of gallons of filtered water during the year. A worn-out washer is usually the reason, but if you have the right tools, it is not too difficult a job to fix the drip.

Slow Draining or Clogged Sink

The typical culprits for water not draining out properly are food debris and congealed cooking fats in a kitchen sink, while a bathroom sink is more likely to fall prey to soap residues and hair. Installing a drain guard is the best way of preventing clogging. However, if it does occur, using a plunger, a plumber’s snake, or even pouring down vinegar and baking soda can usually solve the problem if spotted in time. Using harsh chemical cleaners is not a good idea because they tend to corrode the pipes, according to Chicagotribune.com.

Blocked Shower or Bath Drains

Very much like bathroom sinks, bath and shower pipes also tend to get clogged due to soap scum and hair. While you should install grain guards to take care of the issue before the clogging can take place, over time, you may still experience a situation where the water drains too slowly. Using a plumber’s snake, a plunger, or an environment-friendly drain cleaner can help if the problem is not too severe and can be resolved only by a professional Plumber Auckland.

Clogged Toilet 

If you see the toilet bowl filling up when you flush, you know that you have a clog that needs immediate attention to prevent a messy catastrophe. The main reason why toilets clog is that you have chucked in non-flushable items or there is an accumulation too much toilet paper that is not dissolving. If using a plunger does not work, you may have to use a drain auger or a plumber’s snake to push and prod to loosen the blockage.

Leaking Pipes

Far more than just being an annoyance, leaking pipes can damage your floor and furniture while the damp can lead to the infestation of bugs and the growth of mold and mildew that can be a health hazard. While you can temporarily repair the leaks that usually happen at the joints with tape or fillers, you will need to replace the pipe or the fittings for a more permanent solution. Since the pipes can burst due to ice forming in them in cold weather, you need to allow faucets to drip slowly to prevent it.

Conclusion 

Most of the common plumbing problems in the house can be resolved without needing the attention of a plumber if you know the right technique and have the right tools. However, the real secret is spotting the problem in time so that it does not develop into a crisis.

Guest Contributor: Lucy Jones