You probably don’t think about your plumbing system very often, until there is a problem! Once you do detect an issue, it should get your immediate attention. Putting off repairing your plumbing could result in expensive water damage and even more costly repairs.
It’s also important to look for plumbing issues in a home you might be considering to purchase. Anything causing water damage or moisture issues could mean there is mildew and mould lurking in the walls. If so, this can be hazardous to your health and will have to be dealt with immediately. Moisture can also damage the insulation, framing, drywall and other parts of the home and can be a real headache to deal with.
Though the majority of the plumbing system is inside the walls, there are some outward signs that something could be wrong with the plumbing.
1. No running water.
If you turn on a tap and nothing comes out – you obviously have an issue with your plumbing system. First, check to make sure that the main water valve that supplies the house is actually turned on. If your main water line is turned on, give your local municipality a call to see if they’ve turn off the water for some reason.
If you’re not getting any water, it could mean that you have a clogged pipe. Things like food, hair, oils and other debris can clog your pipes. If this is the case, one of the best plumbers in Edmonton will have special tools to inspect and clean your drains if necessary.
If you have hard water, you might have mineral deposits blocking water flow. Unfortunately, these deposits will continue to accumulate until you have no choice but to replace the line. Hard water can also be damaging your appliances. If you do have hard water, you should consider installing a water softener.
If it is winter time and you have no running water, then you might have a frozen pipe. If any part of your plumbing is exposed in the basement, check for bulging which is a clear indication that water is frozen in there. If you find one frozen pipe, you can bet you have others. Learn how to prevent frozen water pipes. This will have to be repaired by a Master Plumber immediately.
2. Flooding in the basement.
If any part of the basement is flooded or even damp, your pipes could be leaking or you could have water coming in through a window or the foundation. A leaking pipe could cause damage to your floors, drywall, foundation and other parts of the basement. If you see dampness, and think it might be a plumbing-related issue, it should be repaired as soon as possible.
3. Stains on the ceiling or walls
Water marks and stains on the walls or ceiling are a sure sign that something is leaking from the plumbing line. If it is left too long the water could damage the structural integrity of the home and could aid the growth of dangerous mould in the home.
4. Weak water pressure
If you used to have strong water pressure and have noticed a significant drop in the flow, you could be losing water from a leak somewhere else in your plumbing system. It might be difficult to try to find the leak yourself. Before removing drywall to inspect your plumbing system, call in one of the best plumbers in Edmonton to take a look at it for you.
5. Flooding around the home’s exterior.
Random flooding in the yard or around the home, that isn’t caused by rain or snow, can mean there is a problem with the main drainage pipe underground. Repairing a sewer line is a major undertaking, but it has to be done. Check with your local municipality as the main sewer lines outside of your home is owned by then as it could be their responsibility to fix.
