Knowing when to call a plumber is essential for every home and business owner. Here are five of the top plumbing problems requiring a professional.
The Water Heater Stops Working
When you think about hot water, you might picture a relaxing, warm shower. Your water heater’s purpose is not only to help you begin your morning pleasantly, but also to make sure your dishwasher and washing machine carry out their jobs correctly. With the average life span of a water heater averaging between eight and 12 years, it’s important to regularly maintain the system. If the water heater ceases functioning altogether, do not attempt to replace it on your own. A licensed professional must install a typical natural-gas-powered water heater to prevent gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Pipes Freeze
If you discover a frozen pipe, turn off your water main and call a plumber immediately. Believe it or not, you may be one of the lucky homeowners. If a skilled plumber repairs the frozen pipe before it bursts from the pressure, you could avoid widespread water damage and a hefty homeowners insurance claim. According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, the average plumbing supply system claim was over $5,000 nationwide, after deductibles. Out of all claims, frozen pipes were the cause 18 percent of the time.
A Permit is Required for Renovations
Undertaking a home renovation with your personal skill set is an admirable pursuit. However, unless you are certified in the plumbing field, it is not ideal to attempt to install plumbing lines on your own. An experienced plumber knows how to apply for town permits, gain approval and carry out the work to the satisfaction of a home inspector. The thousands you spend on piping materials will go to waste if you must tear out the system and pay a plumber to redo the work.
A Pipe Leaks
Even the smallest of leaks can escalate quickly. Leaks that begin behind walls and in ceilings can result in soggy, destroyed drywall and the beginnings of mold growth. You may feel confident enough to patch a small section of PVC pipe underneath your sink, but be aware that pipe patch jobs only fix the problem for the moment. According to Redbeacon, an online service that connects qualified pros with homeowners, it generally costs between $109 and $275 to repair a pipe leak. Paying for a repair when you first discover a leak will be more cost-effective than waiting until it becomes worse and causes water damage to your home.
The Sewer is Clogged
A clogged sewer will emit a bad odor and may cause wet patches in your yard or basement. If you do not have a sewage backflow valve installed in your plumbing system, you could experience an overflow if the main sewer line becomes blocked. If you begin to notice water backing up into your bathtub or a basement drain, contact a plumber right away to inspect the main line for a clog. Trained professionals will be able to diagnose the reason for the clog – whether a tree root or an obstruction – and either replace the line section or attempt a repair with high-powered jets of water or an auger.
If you follow these five guidelines on when to call a plumber, you will keep your home’s plumbing system in mint condition and eliminate the possibility of future plumbing problems.