Residential Plumbing Basics for Homeowners
Owning a home is a rewarding experience, but it is also a never-ending process of learning. So many things can go wrong for decades and each problem occurs so rarely that by the time it is time to deal with the same problem again, it can be hard to remember what to do.
When it comes to a home’s plumbing, there is an exhaustive list of things that can happen that can throw homeowners into a loop. Taking the time now and then to refresh the memory about the plumbing in the home can save the owner some headaches. Here is a quick refresher course on the basics of home plumbing from local experts.
Signs of Leaks
Water leaks are one of the most common plumbing problems around the home. The main problem is that with copper, PVC, and PEX piping, a leak may only occur every 5-10 years, leaving the homeowner needing to be more active about finding and responding to the leak. Even though these materials can last for decades with no problems, every foot of pipe in the home can potentially spring a leak due to wear and tear. Some of the signs to keep an eye out for that indicate the presence of a water leak are:
- Buckled floors or squishy carpets
- Unidentifiable source of dripping or hissing sounds
- High water bills
- Wet spots on the lawn or around the edge of the slab
- Cool spots on concrete or tile floors
- High humidity and mold problems
Homeowners should take the time to look for leaks now and then. Doing so will allow them to intervene more quickly by calling a professional for water leak repairs.
Sewer Line Repair Signs
A less common plumbing problem, but a more disgusting one, is sewer line problems. Sewer line problems can range from clogs that cause sewage to back up to leaks that allow sewage to seep around the home. For obvious reasons, sewer line leaks and clogs must be avoided and repaired quickly. Watching out for these signs can help homeowners respond faster and avoid nasty messes.
- Sewage backups into the home
- Foul odors seeping from drains or lingering outdoors
- Slow, noisy draining or flushing from multiple plumbing fixtures
- Wet spots on the lawn
- Lush turfgrass growth
- Sinkholes on the lawn
- Insect infestations
Sewer line repairs can be quick in the case of a clog. A simple drain cleaning service will likely solve the problem. Repairing a sewer line leak can be more involved, so homeowners should take the time to get several quotes before scheduling work.
Plumbing Maintenance
There is no match for professional plumbing maintenance to prevent plumbing problems. Allowing a professional to inspect the plumbing and maintain the water heater once per year can extend the life of piping and appliances and lower repair and utility bills. For owners truly looking to be free from the hassle and high cost of plumbing repairs, plumbing maintenance is the best way to prevent problems. Plumbing maintenance prevents problems like:
- Corrosion
- Premature appliance failure
- Short piping lifespan
- High water and power bills
- Low water quality
- High repair bills
- Secondary water damage
About A & W Plumbing and Heating Inc.
A & W Plumbing and Heating Inc. has certified technicians who are ready to help home and business owners. Their membership program covers annual maintenance and can help homeowners keep their bills low. Call today for plumbing service in Murphysboro, IL.
