Owning a house is a dream come true for some. However, if the plumbing is getting old, this can mean it’s time for some major upgrades. But, how do you know if you need a complete upgrade or a quick fix? Here are seven signs you may need to replace old plumbing pipes.
1. Leaking Pipes
Leaky pipes are a costly headache. They increase the water bill and may cause water damage to your property. Even a minor leakage can cause great damage and shouldn’t be ignored. At the first sign of a leaky pipe, call in your local plumber Sweeney’s Plumbing to fix or replace it.
2. Discoloured Pipes
Next time you stick your head under the kitchen sink, do you notice any pipes looking discoloured or rusty? This points to moisture being present, which could be leaking from the pipe, the sink, supply line or the drain line. Even if it seems like an insignificant leak, plumbing supply lines are pressurized, so a major leak can happen in no time.
3. Slow Moving Drains
Sinks and shower plugholes often become clogged and slow moving after the buildup of debris, food or hair flowing into the system. Most blockages can be removed easily yourself, but if the obstruction is deep down, you will need to seek professional assistance. Clogged water pipes may even burst in extreme cases and need replacing.
4. Low Water Pressure in Multiple Locations
If the water pressure has lowered in one location, this can be fixed easily. If the water is low from several faucets, this points to a larger problem, either in the hot water heater, the water main or supply line. Old, outdated pipes can also be a cause, stopping enough water flowing through because of corrosion and a buildup of harmful deposits.
5. Constantly Dripping Faucets
Leaky faucets can be caused by the water pressure being too high, broken, and cracked plumbing, broken washers/O-ring or other damaged parts of the system. Water leaking from a faucet may seem minor, but it can waste hundreds of dollars’ worth of water monthly. Call in your local plumber for a full inspection of your plumbing system.
6. A Spike in Water Bills
A sudden spike in your water bill indicates a change in the plumbing system. If you haven’t done anything to cause the increase in water usage, it may be caused by leaking pipes or a constantly running toilet. If this happens frequently, your home plumbing may need an upgrade.
7. Noisy Pipes
Noisy pipes are a common occurrence in older homes. But sudden noises also point to a compromise in the system. Copper pipes expand and contract with temperature which can be a cause. Other causes include loose fittings, high water pressure and blockages. Call out your local plumber to solve these issues for you.