5 Common Plumbing Issues in Arlington – and How to Fix Them
The plumbing system is an intricate network of pipes, connectors, fixtures and faucets. Everything must be calibrated right and all the components have to work together perfectly. If they don’t, you’ll quickly notice plumbing related problems.
Plumbing issues are inevitable if you own a home long enough. In particular, you’re likely to run into one or more of the five common plumbing issues listed here. These problems can lead to lukewarm hot water, a constantly running toilet and more mishaps. Plus, we’ll highlight the plumbing repairs that are recommended by our plumbers.
Clogged Drain
Clogged drain pipes happen everywhere, including San Antonio. It’s simply the nature of piping. Eventually, things are going to go down the drain that don’t flow through and instead build up, eventually creating a clog that affects water flow.
A clogged toilet is the most common drain blockage, but a clogged drain can happen anywhere in the system from the tub drain to the sewer lines. Sometimes chemical drain cleaners are enough to clear a clog, but other times a tool called a snake is needed for drain cleaning. The snake (drain auger) is a long metal cable that can go down into the drain to bust up the clog.
Leaky Pipes
Pipe leaks are extremely common. Pipes must be fitted together perfectly to avoid leaks. Even the slightest gap will allow water to drip through that eventually causes significant damage. PrFew homeowners in Arlington have a sump pump on site to prevent flooding.
A pipe leak can be caused by a lot of different things, including a clog. Corrosion over time, shifts in the temperature and high water pressure could also contribute to a leak.
The solution for the leaky pipes all comes down to the cause. For example, a pressure reducing valve can help if high water pressure is the problem. However, if freezing temperatures are creating leaks insulation around the pipes is going to be essential.
Sewer pipe leaks are an entirely different kind of problem that requires specialized knowledge to repair. Often what’s happening under the ground can impact sewer and septic system lines, like tree roots and animal activity. Other factors like clogged drains and water pressure can also be a factor.
If you notice slow draining and foul odors there could be a leak in the sewer lines that can eventually cause foundation issues if it isn’t addressed.
Leaking Faucets
Another common plumbing problem is a leaking faucet. It can start out as a slow drip that you don’t even notice. But before long the faucet is full on leaking, costing you money on your water bill.
A leaky faucet can be caused by a worn out washer or o-ring. Faucet leaks can also be the result of a damaged valve seat or cartridge as well. To make these repairs you’ll have to take the faucet apart. If that’s not something you have experience with it’s best to hire a professional plumber.
Sediment Buildup in the Water Heater
The water that passes through the hot water heater can impact its performance. Here in San Antonio we have what’s known as hard water. Not only that, it’s considered “very hard” water, meaning that there’s a very high mineral content. This is largely the result of the water supply coming from Edwards Aquifer, which contains a lot of magnesium and calcium.
These minerals can build up in the water heater creating a sediment that needs to be cleaned out. It’s usually recommended to service and clean water heaters once a year in San Antonio. This will clear out the sediment and ensure the water heater is operating at maximum efficiency.
And tankless water heater installation isn’t a work around. The sediment can build up in a tankless water heater as well. It will require flushing just like a storage tank water heater.
Constantly Running Toilet
Is the water constantly cycling through the toilet? This is a costly plumbing problem that indicates something is going wrong in the tank. Most likely the float needs to be readjusted, the flapper valve is malfunctioning or the fill tube is leaking.
Adjusting the float is a toilet repair most homeowners can handle on their own. The other repairs may be best left to a licensed plumber who has experience working on toilets. You don’t want to turn a running toilet into a plumbing emergency.
No matter what type of plumbing services you need in Arlington, TX Made’s Plumbing has solutions. We’re a full service plumbing company that’s worked on all types of plumbing systems and equipment. We can help with everything from a sewer system backup to a leaking faucet. Give us a call at 817-962-2257 for a free repair estimate!