A homeowner takes pride in their property and with good reason. This is the home they’ve invested equity into both as cash and sweat. There are many maintenance issues that crop up that even the least experienced “handy man” can fix. That is further cause for celebration when that homeowner can step back and proudly proclaim, “I took care of that.”
Then there are those problems that no amount of DIY YouTube videos can fix. That is especially true when it comes to issues with the plumbing. Here are some plumbing issues that would definitely require bringing in a professional plumber to fix:
1. When a Faucet Keeps Dripping
A dripping faucet first becomes an concern if it keeps someone awake. That is when a temporary fix like a rag in the sink might work but for how long? The Environmental Protection Agency finds that a leaky faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water in a year. It could also be the sign of a systemic problem with pipes further down the line. If a washer does the trick, then the call to a plumber might be avoided. When the drip comes back, it’s time to make the call.
2. When the Bathtub Has a Slow Drain
Everyone knows that to save water, showers should be limited to 5-10 minutes with 10 minutes really stretching the value. Even in a quick shower, a slow drain can mean a person is standing in their own grimy shower water. That’s not a great way to start a day. There are plenty of products available on the market that claim they can clear a bathtub drain by just pouring the contents down the pipes. Too often, those claims aren’t backed up by the actual product. A professional plumber can attack that bathtub drain with a snake and clear a clog all the way to the source.
3. When the Water Pressure is Off
A shower that goes from a full flow to a couple of drips could indicate a problem with water pressure. It might be that mineral deposits have built up in the showerhead preventing the water from seeping out. That is easily fixed by removing the showerhead and cleaning or replacing the piece. If the water pressure is off throughout the rest of the house, then the problem has compounded. A professional plumber will be able to assess the situation and make adjustments in the pressure. It could be time for a new water pressure valve.
4. When Pipes Freeze Up
Special attention has to be paid to pipes during the winter. An overnight freeze can create a small crack. That small fissure can quickly expand into a burst pipe. Dealing with flooding in the basement while there is snow outside is not a pleasant experience. When pipes freeze over, it is best to call a plumber to restore water and make sure there are no cracks.
5. When a Toilet Stays Clogged
It is hard to imagine anyone getting through life without dealing with a clogged toilet. Thankfully, the plunger or “plumber’s helper” can take care of most clogs. Of course, there are those overwhelming situations when the plunger proves to be ineffectual. There could also be a back up from the sewage line. This is definitely when a plumber needs to be called in.
There is no shame in asking for professional help. The real shame is letting a problem go uncheck and watching it turn into a huge headache.
