5 Signs of Plumbing Problems at Home

Plumbing issues can happen at any point. They’re often difficult to detect initially since they don’t always interfere with daily activities. Plumbing issues that go unnoticed can cause extensive water damage. Even if they do not cause significant harm, plumbing problems are inconvenient and must be addressed. Here are some signs of plumbing problems at home to look out for.

Signs of Plumbing Problems Include Dripping Faucets

A common sign of plumbing problems at home is a dripping faucet. The smallest leaks often start as a drip, but these drips add up to a significant amount of wasted water over time. As minor as it seems, any leaking faucet will drive up your water bill. Be sure to have leaks fixed as soon as possible.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is another one of the signs of plumbing problems at home. First, check that the pressure is set to a normal level on the water main. It shouldn’t be set higher than 80 psi. Any higher than this will put a strain on your plumbing system.

If the level appears to be normal but the water pressure remains low, there may be a leak or line blockage.

Water Stains are Signs of Plumbing Problems

Stains on walls, ceilings, and pipes can be a visible sign of a plumbing leak. Plumbing pipes are generally hidden behind walls, so the first sign of a water leak is discoloration on ceiling or wall surfaces. This may appear as a brown stain or peeling and bubbling paint.

Pipes that you can see under sinks might be leaking so slowly that while there isn’t a puddle of water beneath them, the connections have become discolored.

Spongy Floors in the Bathroom

The water lines that lead to the bathtub and shower may spring a leak that is difficult to detect. One sign of serious water damage from this type of plumbing problem is a spongy bathroom floor. If the floor around the tub and shower feels soft, it means that water is causing the subfloor to rot.

Unpleasant Odors

Various bad smells around the house can be signs of a plumbing problem. Leaking pipes often lead to mildew and mold growth, which smells like damp paper or wet socks.

A sewage smell in the house means that there is a problem with the vent stack. It may be broken or clogged and preventing sewer gas from being properly ventilated out of the home.

If you notice any of these signs, take action to have your plumbing system inspected and repaired. Plumbing problems only worsen when ignored.

Exceptional Engineering Home Inspections provides home inspection services. Contact us to schedule an appointment in Maricopa County.