Plumbing issues come in all types of sizes, from big to small.
The relatively minor ones are usually easy to repair but some of the more extensive issues can be costly and extensive. Wondering if the plumbing issue at your home is something that commonly occurs to other homeowners?
Here are the eight most common plumbing problems that we encounter when completing plumbing services at Oakville homes:
- Dripping Faucets
Besides being a nuisance, dripping faucets can quickly increase your water bill amount. Luckily the cause – a faulty internal washer – can normally be quickly repaired by the average homeowner.
- Slow Draining Sink
When water starts taking a while to drain down a sink, there’s typically some sort of blockage causing the restriction. In kitchen sinks, congealed fat and food remnants are common culprits whereas knotted hair and soap buildup can cause blockages in bathroom sinks.
Solutions for clogged sinks range from using a plunger, pouring down a natural or over-the-counter clog remover solution or utilizing a plumber’s snake. In some circumstances, the clog may be so bad that a professional will need to be called.
- Slow or Clogged Drains
The cause for slow or clogged drains is similar to slow draining sinks: hair, soap and food debris. Try using a natural solution of baking soda and vinegar first, followed by a plunger or a snake. To avoid the problem from happening in the future, invest in a drain guard.
- Running Toilet
Once you notice your running toilet, act fast. A running toilet can result in the loss of up to 200 gallons of water each day. Commonly caused by a faulty flapper valve, a running toilet can typically be repaired with a toilet repair kit.
One other cause of a running toilet is a silent leak. Caused by sediment affecting the flushing and filling, a silent leak can be detected by placing food colouring in the upper tank and watching to see if it appears in the bowl without flushing.
- Faulty Water Heater
Did the water suddenly go cold while you were taking a shower? If so, you have a faulty water heater.
Whether it’s caused by a faulty pilot light or thermostat or even sediment build-up, a professional is your best bet for detecting the cause behind your water heater issues.
- Low Water Pressure
When leaking pipes become broken, corroded or worn over time, low water pressure is often a result. Because sediment buildup is typically to blame, soak the aerator or showerhead in vinegar for a thorough cleaning.
- Sewer System Backups
From foul odours to backed up drains and toilets, sewer system problems can’t go ignored.
Sometimes caused by a clog in the main sewer, sewer system backups can also be caused by collapsed lines in older sewer lines or tree root damage.
- Leaky Pipes
Does one of the plumbing problems described above resonate with an issue you’re experiencing in your home? If so, we can help! McKenna Plumbing has been providing first-class plumbing services to Oakville and the surrounding area for over a decade. Contact us today to make an appointment to get your home’s plumbing problem resolved!