When a major plumbing problem occurs, it’s very inconvenient, plus an unexpected expense. However, a plumbing emergency doesn’t always strike unexpectedly. Some do present early warning signs. To avoid a plumbing catastrophe in your Sarasota, Florida, home, here are four plumbing problems you should not ignore.
A blocked toilet is hard to ignore. Watching the water level rise in the toilet bowl causes panic because you know it will overflow. Your first port of call is the trusty toilet plunger or drain snake. In most cases, these rudimentary tools will fix the problem. If, however, it is a recurring problem, call a plumber. A toilet that is constantly clogging is a sign of a bigger problem like a blockage further down the pipe.
Drop in Water Pressure
If you’re noticing weaker water pressure from your taps and shower head, something is wrong. First, check the pressure reducing valve. If it is working properly, your next step is to call a plumbing professional to investigate further. Lower water pressure indicates a leak in the pipeline or a burst pipe. These leaks will cause a damp problem and lead to biological growth in your home.
Slow Draining Sinks and Tubs
Water that slowly swirls down the sink is an annoying problem but one that many people tend to overlook until the drain is completely backed up. If using a plunger fails to unclog the drain, then it’s likely that the sewer drain line is clogged. This is a job for a professional as blockages in the sewer system require professional tools to diagnose and unblock them.
Another annoying problem that’s easy to ignore is a dripping tap. Often the problem is minor, like a worn washer, that can be fixed quickly and at a minimal cost. Remember, ignoring a leaking faucet wastes several gallons of water a month and will hit your water bill heavily.