Some plumbing issues in Sydney are minor and easy to fix while others are major and pricey to fix. Similarly, some plumbing issues are easily noticeable while others are challenging to tell.
If you can’t notice a plumbing problem, it may end up worsening and cause costly damages by the time you notice it. Thus, it’s important to notice plumbing problems early enough and fix them quickly before they become major problems.
Here are 10 signs that can tell your home has plumbing problems that need the attention of a professional plumber.
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Slow Drainage
Over time, the shower or sink drain is susceptible to clogs that cause water to drain slowly or fail to drain at all. Drain clogs often result from the buildup of debris such as soap scum and hair.
You can easily unclog a blocked shower or sink drain with an auger or plumber’s snake. However, if all drain pipes are draining slowly, then it means there’s a serious clog within the main drainage line.
You should consider such a problem as an emergency. In this case, call your plumber to come and check the sewer line immediately and recommend appropriate solutions.
Constant Toilet Clogs
Every homeowner experiences toilet clogs from time to time. However, constant toilet clogs are a major sign of a bigger plumbing problem.
If the toilet and other plumbing fixtures have started backing up, then it’s possible that the sewer line is clogged or the septic system is backing up.
Rattling Pipes
Although you may hear some noise as water rushes through the pipes, the pipes themselves should be quiet. However, if the pipes are rattling, especially when turning them off, then it means you’re dealing with a water hammer problem.
This issue occurs when water stops flowing or changes its direction abruptly, thereby causing a powerful shock wave. The shock wave causes loose pipes to bang against the wall. Consequently, you’ll hear a rattling noise.
A water hammer problem may also result from excessive water pressure and loose pipes. It can also result from flooding of the air chambers within the plumbing system.
Reduced Water Pressure
If the water pressure is lower than usual, then you won’t enjoy taking a shower. Also, it’ll take longer to fill your tub and find it more challenging to clean dishes.
Your washing machine and other fixtures or appliances that require high water pressure will be affected. There are many more annoying issues that arise with reduced water pressure.
If you notice that the water pressure is lower than usual, then you may be dealing with clogged supply pipes. In this case, call your plumber to come and inspect the pipes.
The Ceiling is Developing Brown Spots
In case your ceiling is developing brown spots, then it’s likely that water is leaking above the ceiling. You should first trace the leakage and repair it before repairing the ceiling.
Peeling Wallpaper or Paint
If you notice blistering, cracking, or peeling wallpaper or paint in your bathroom, then it’s likely that a pipe is leaking. Before you repaint the wall or patch up the wallpaper, call your plumber to trace the leak and fix it.
Increasing Water Bills
If you can’t account for increased water usage, then a sudden increase in your water bill means that there’s a leak somewhere in the plumbing system. In this case, call a professional plumber to come and diagnose the problem.
Gurgling Toilet
The toilet is normally quiet, unless flushed. Thus, if your toilet is gurgling without being flushed, then it means there’s a possible plumbing issue.
The toilet may produce gurgling noises as a result of a blocked sewer pipe or a blocked drain vent. Such major plumbing issues need the attention of a plumber.
Foul Drain Smells
Bathrooms and kitchens are prone to bacteria. Bacteria can easily cause funny smells. However, persistent foul smells coming from the drains are a sign of a possible clog or broken sewer line.
Mold Growing on Walls or Cabinets
If mold is growing anywhere within your home, then you should be worried. Mold growing on walls or cabinets is a sign of a leaking pipe. Generally, mold grows on wet surfaces.
Thus, when you notice mold on the walls or cabinets, then you should have your plumbing inspected for leaks soonest possible.