Every responsible property owner should know enough about their plumbing system to enable them to recognize when something is wrong. Most of these issues don’t resolve on their own, and many of them can get progressively worse without some kind of intervention. That’s why you should be aware of these common fall pipe problems and be ready to address them quickly if they do happen.
Leaks and Loose Connections
A leaky pipe is probably the most common plumbing issue that the average person faces, and it’s usually pretty simple to diagnose and fix. However, this doesn’t diminish how serious the consequences can be if you don’t catch the problem quickly. Even a small leak in a bad place, like behind a wall, can cause major structural damage and allow for mold to gain a foothold in the building.
Addressing the actual leak is the priority, but it’s also important to figure out the source. All plumbing connections should be checked periodically to make sure they are still tight and intact. Signs of corrosion or material failure could indicate a problem with internal pressure or an external environmental cause that needs to be corrected.
Water Heater Failure
Fall is when you should really think about your water heater. The prospect of cold showers in the wintertime isn’t very appealing. There are different ways that the appliance can fail, so it won’t necessarily stop working completely. It’s easy to get used to drops in performance when they happens over time, but don’t let complacency lull you into neglecting professional inspection and maintenance.
Clogs Indoors or Outside
Clogged drains and pipes are a serious problem no matter where they occur. As tree leaves change color and fall to the ground, they can cause real challenges for outdoor drainage systems. This includes problems for gutters as well as surface-level and buried pipes. On the inside of the building, any kind of clog from a bathroom or kitchen fixture can escalate and lead to more serious problems, including major pipe leaks or a sewer line blockage.
Find a Plumber for Any Season
Don’t let a fall pipe problem become a winter disaster. Jeff’s Custom Care offers professional plumbing solutions in Waukesha, WI, including water heaters, sump pumps, and repiping, so contact our customer service team to learn more about our company and the services we provide.