Tips On How To Troubleshoot Plumbing Problems

Do you know that plumbing problems cost homeowners thousands of dollars every year? Well, this is a fact according to various reputable studies. These problems usually result in reduced efficiency, and this is what cost you extra dollars on your utility bills. It could be gas leaks or a faulty hot water system, amongst other things. One of the major plumbing problems is water wastage and blocked drain. Most of these problems do not require a professional plumber to locate.

This article will provide you with tips on how to troubleshoot the two most common plumbing problems:

High Water Bills

If you’re experiencing high water bills, the problem must be high water usage. You could be experiencing water leaks, or you are actually consuming it. Here are best ways to troubleshoot this problem:

• Listen for Dripping Sound

  Although this step is usually overlooked, it can save you a lot of trouble checking for leaks. Dripping faucets may not seem to waste a lot of water, but they can cost you gallons of water at the end of the year. When there is little or no activity, and the house is quiet, listen for the dripping sound. If you have stainless steel sinks, it will be easy to hear the sound clearly. Also, check all the kitchen taps for leaks since they have a high rate of wear and tear. Repair or replace the faulty parts.

• Looking For Leaking Pipes

  Your piping system could be the problem, especially if it was installed decades ago. It could even be worse if it’s metallic due to rusting and corrosion. Too much pressure could have also busted or weakened the joints, thus causing the leakage. If you notice mildew, mould, or darkened surfaces on the wall or ground, it could be a sign of leaking pipes. Learn more about water leak and water seepage assistance here.

• Check Your Water Meter

  You can use the authority meter to determine if plumbing system is leaking or you’re actually consuming the water. Just close all water outlets in the house and read the meter display and leave for an hour. If there will be no changes in water meter display, then you are consuming the water, but if there is a change then you have a leak.

Drain Problems

Here are steps to troubleshoot the drain/waste problems:

• Identify the problem

  Slow sink, water backing up in the shower or sink, wet areas on the wall and bubbling sounds are some of the signs of a clogged drain.

• Determine the extent of clog

  Find out if it’s affecting the entire system or it’s localized. If all sinks are showing the signs of a blocked drain, then you have a huge problem. If it’s isolated to only one sink, it should be easy.

• Determine the Route Waste Takes To Reach Main Drain

  This will help you to identify the closest point that you can use to clear the clog.

• Flush the Drain with Hot Water

  For a simple sink clog, flushing hot water down the drain is enough to clear the clog. You may add dry cleaning products or a plumber’s snake to clear the clog quickly.

Still think you need help? Call LJM PLumbing, we’re the most reliable plumber northside of Brisbane, with 24/7 availability.