If you own a home, it is not a matter of IF you will need a plumbing repair service, but WHEN. And, when it comes to plumbing, usually the sooner you get the repair done, the better as unaddressed water leaks can cause big problems.
The most common causes of plumbing related water damage come from:
- broken or leaking pipes, such as broken hose bibs (outdoor hose spigots), or old pipes that need to be replaced
- faulty appliances such as broken ice makers or garbage disposals
- leaking water heaters, faucets or toilets
- drain back-ups such as washing machine lines, sewer lines, bath tub drain clogs
Luckily, a plumbing repair service can handle all these common problems.
Leaking Pipes
Homes built in the 1960’s typically had galvanize pipes, which corrode over time. Eventually, multiple holes will require them to be replaced.
Hose bibs, or outdoor spigots can freeze and split, causing a serious flooding issue. In both cases, it is important to know how to turn your water off in order to prevent significant water damage until repairs can be made by a licensed plumbing repair service.
Appliance leaks
Ice maker issues are sometimes not discovered for quite some time, especially if the leak is slow enough that the water evaporates daily. Usually a homeowner will discover the problem when they move the fridge to clean and see the damage to floor below.
Garbage disposals can be similar in that homeowners tend to notice a foul odor before they open the cupboard and find it warped due to water damage. A small, inexpensive water alarm purchased from a hardware store can be placed in strategic areas near certain appliances. The alarm gives a shrill sound if it comes in contact with water so a plumbing repair service provider can remedy the unseen leak before the damage grows.
Other Leaks
Sometimes it is hard to tell if a toilet is leaking due to the condensation of moisture in bathrooms. However, if the humidity from a shower is gone and you still notice water around the base of the toilet, you have a leak. You can also test the area’s dryness by using a tissue to wipe around the base- the tissue will easily absorb the water. Toilet leaks can happen at the base, water supply line, or tank.
Water heater leaks can signify the need to replace the heater. Faucet leaks can happen at the aerator, handles, or even underneath the sink. Both should be evaluated by a plumber who can give you suggested solutions.
Clogs
If you flush a toilet or run the washing machine and water backs up, you likely have a clog to resolve. If a plunger doesn’t help, it is best to call a plumbing repair service to clear the drain. Chemical drain-cleaning products can damage your system and are often ineffective. Many times, the clog exists in a different line than the effected one, or is further down the line than a chemical cleaner could reach.
Garvin’s Sewer Service has been proving reliable, honest plumbing and sewer services for the Greater Denver and Boulder areas from their Englewood office since 1940. Give them a call with questions, for a quote, or to learn more about preventative maintenance and plumbing repair service at 303-571-5114.
