Plumbing problems can be dangerous and difficult to fix on your own. Even seemingly minor issues can cause significant damage if addressed slowly. Knowing the signs that it’s time to call a professional plumber can save you from costly repairs in the future. Some of the most common warning signs include leaking faucets, low water pressure, and the smell of sewage.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a major pain that can interfere with your daily activities. If a drain becomes completely blocked, turning it off and calling a plumber Tacoma may be your best option. Bathroom drains can become blocked from a wide variety of items that are washed or flushed down them. For example, stringy materials like dental floss and animal fur can easily knot up and combine with soap scum and other pipe debris to block drains. In the kitchen, grease and fat from cooking can harden and form clogs in drains. The gurgling sound of a clogged drain is another signal that it’s time to call a professional. This sound indicates that the clog is blocking air from entering the plumbing system, preventing it from functioning properly.
Low Water Pressure
Suppose you’re finding that your water pressure has suddenly dropped or the water dribbles out of faucets and shower heads. In that case, this is an indicator that there is an underlying problem that requires professional attention. Low water pressure is a sign of mineral build-up and, if left untreated, could result in costly plumbing repairs. Another possibility for low water pressure is a leak in your main line. Check the basement or garage for visual evidence of a leak, or head outdoors to look for a wet spot in the yard near where your water line meets the municipal supply.
Sewage Smell
A strong sewage smell in your home signals that it’s time to call an expert plumber. It could mean a clogged drain or a sewer system backup requiring immediate attention. This is particularly important if you’ve noticed a foul odor from your basement or bathroom drains. It may be a sign that the sewage pipe is rotted or cracked. If this is the case, it can lead to a backup that puts your family at risk for serious health issues. Another reason for a sewer smell is that your clean-out plugs are clogged or dried out. These plugs separate the indoor and outdoor sewage systems. If they dry out, they allow sewer gas into your house. A plumber can fix this by refilling them with water. The plumber can also check that your roof vents aren’t clogged, which would allow the sewer gas to escape into your house. The plumber can use a non-toxic smoke test to see any defects in your sewer line, which they can then flag and document for you.
No Water in the House
A sudden lack of water in your home is an obvious sign that it’s time to call a professional plumber. A severe leak can cause thousands of dollars in damage, and it’s important to turn off the water supply as soon as possible to limit the impact. Begin by checking all your other home water taps to ensure they work. If they are, it’s likely a problem with the water meter or one of the main supply lines to your home. Occasionally, local water companies will shut down the water supply to entire neighborhoods due to a major issue like a frozen pipe or a clog. If this has happened to you, contact your water company for more information and to see if they have any tips for getting the water back on. If the problem continues, it’s time to call a plumber. An experienced plumber can perform tests and inspections to find the source of the problem.
