How to Deal With Very Common Bathroom Plumbing Problems
RH Business Marketing Solutions
As a homeowner, it is likely you will experience plumbing issues at some point. These could range from slow drains and toilet leakage to leaks which require professional plumbing assistance for repair.
However, some plumbing issues are within your reach to resolve on your own - here are a few of the more commonly occurring ones below. Obviously, more would appear during a larger home remodel project.
Clogged Drains
No one enjoys having to deal with clogged drains in their bathroom, where they can cause serious issues. Proper waste disposal and pipe maintenance can help avoid these clogs; it is also essential that individuals understand early warning signs that could indicate the development of one so it can be addressed promptly.
Clogged sink drains are usually caused by hair, soap scum or foreign objects that enter the drain and become wet in its path; when hair enters it clumps together into an obstruction in its path. Soap scum builds up inside pipes preventing water flow.
An effective method for unclogging drains is pouring baking soda followed by vinegar down your drain, followed by hot water rinsing. A wire drain snake may also help dislodge large clogs; chemical-based drain cleaners should always be avoided as these are more harmful than helpful, and could corrode pipes over time.
Leaky Pipes
Leaky pipes can cause irreparable damage to both your bathroom and home, so it is vital that any slow leaks be immediately fixed - this is especially true if they run beneath your sink or other exposed locations.
Water spots on your ceiling, walls or floor; stains on these surfaces; bubbling wallpaper or peeling paint; and sagging floors may all indicate this problem. In addition, you may hear dripping noises.
Leaks in pipes may be caused by loose connections, clogs or corrosion on P-traps. Tightening loose fittings should usually be straightforward while replacing damaged pipe systems requires specialist equipment and skills.
Submit to regular checks around your bathroom to identify signs of leaky pipes that could result in costly damage and flooding, including earthy or musty smells that could signal hidden mold growth behind toilets or pipes. Mold thrives in dark and moist places like this one and needs moisture and darkness in order to thrive.
Sewer Odours
Even though a bathroom may be the last place you expect to experience the pungent scent of sewerage, it can happen. It is important to identify its source and address it accordingly if this foul odor becomes an issue - air fresheners and fans might help, but airing out could reveal larger problems like sewer backup or broken seal on the toilet that require immediate action.
One common source of sewer odors in your home can be when the p-trap on your sink drain becomes dry. These u-shaped pipes collect water beneath your sink drain in order to block bad odours from entering, but when not used often enough, their contents evaporate and allow odors into your home. Running the water in either your sink or shower for one or two minutes should refill the p-trap and restore its ability to protect from sewer odors. A broken toilet wax ring may also allow these unpleasant aromas into your home - replacement may require professional plumber services.
Dripping Sink or Shower
Dripping bathroom faucets waste gallons of water each day, driving up your water bill and potentially causing serious water damage in the room below. To remedy it, switch off all water valves under the sink before unscrewing and unscrewing out the handle for drainpipe access and screwing out drainpipe. Take note of how nut and washer were originally installed so you can reassemble them correctly later.
Shower leaks can be just as problematic as bathtub leaks if left ignored for too long, leading to damaged floor boards and buckled ceiling drywall, as well as significant water damage and creating an ideal environment for mould growth.
A leaking shower can often be easily identified, leaving behind a wet spot on the wall. Use a small nail to probe this wet spot, and try hitting an electrical or plumbing stud by probing with it - then work between these studs to saw out an inspection hole to locate its source - potentially the leak!