In most houses, the plumbing system is almost completely hidden. Although, there has recently been an increase in the number of people installing exposed plumbing. The problem with concealed plumbing is that it can be difficult to identify an issue until a disaster happens.
This is why you should have an annual inspection from a qualified plumber in Sydney. It can help to identify and resolve an issue instead of leaving you to discover a flooded house, and that isn’t one caused by a natural disaster.
How to figure out common plumbing issues
The good news is that, when you know what you are looking for, you will find your plumbing system does give you warnings that there is an impending issue. You simply need to be able to recognize the common signs.
Increase in water bills
One of the most obvious signs that you have an impending plumbing disaster is when your water bills start to climb and there is no obvious reason why. If you are still using the same amount of water and no one is pinching your supply then you probably have a leak. The sooner you find it and fix it the better. If left, it can cause serious damage to your home.
If you are not sure about your water bill then simply take a meter reading and don’t use any water for a couple of hours. Read the meter again, if it has changed, you have a leak.
Damp patches
Another sign that you have a leak within your plumbing system is when you notice damp patches on your walls or ceiling. Because most pipes are hidden in the walls this can often be the first sign that there is an issue. The good news is that this will also help you to pinpoint the leaking pipe or joint and then fix it.
Damp patches can also appear on the floor but, if this is downstairs you will need to verify whether this is a plumbing issue or a damp issue.
Slow drains
Slow drains start as a nuisance that can often be cured with a little plunging or chemicals. However, a slow drain tells you that there is an issue with the pipes from that appliance. More than one slow drain tells you the problem is in the main sewer line.
The most common issue is a clog which is building. If you leave it the clog will block the pipe allowing wastewater to backflow into your home.
Clogs are often caused by flushing the wrong things down the toilet, such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and children’s toys. But, they can also be a result of tree roots damaging the pipe or even excess weight constantly going over the pipe;
It is a good idea to invest in a sewer camera to find the problem and fix it as early as possible.
Strange sounds
If you have a strange sound in your pipes then the most common issue is often air in the pipes. Of course, if you have air in the pipes it must be getting in from somewhere. You can bleed the air out but, if it returns, then you are probably looking at a hole developing which could have disastrous consequences.
Strange sounds can also suggest issues with appliances, specifically the water heater. You will want to get this checked out by a professional as quickly as possible. It is generally cheaper to repair them than replace them.
Discolored water
Finally, if you have discolored water coming out of your taps you should proceed with caution. It is always a good idea to check with your neighbors. If they have the same issue then the water board has probably accidentally damaged a pipe and allowed soil and other substances to get into your supply.
Conclusion
In this case, it will clear by itself. However, if your neighbors are fine then you probably have rust in your pipes. This is most commonly from the water heater and suggests it is at the end of its life. However, it can also be an issue with the pipes. You will want to get it checked and fixed as soon as possible.
