4 Common Plumbing Emergencies that Homeowners Face

Having running water indoors is one of the hallmark conveniences of modern life—but with dozens of feet of piping running through the average house, every homeowner will likely face a plumbing problem sooner or later. If you live in an older home that has older plumbing in Alexandria, VA and you can’t remember the last time you had your pipes inspected, you will probably experience a plumbing emergency sooner rather than later. Call a professional if you have any of the following issues:

Pinhole Leaks

Sudden, seemingly inexplicable spikes in your monthly water bill may be caused by pinhole leaks.
As pipes age, especially metal pipes, corrosion can slowly eat away at the walls until the pipe begins to develop tiny leaks. Though these leaks often aren't large enough to cause flooding or noticeable drops in pressure, they can increase your water usage and thus cause your bills to go up. Some leaks can be patched, but if the corrosion is severe

you may need to have the entire section of pipe replaced.

Clogged Drains

Sometimes, homeowners pour cooking grease down the drain or flush items such as paper towels and facial tissue, operating on the age-old “out of sight, out of mind” principle. These items don’t simply get washed away into the sewer, however. Grease will coat the inside of your pipes until water can barely drain anymore, and certain types of paper product can become stuck inside the drains and block water flow. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as these may do more harm than good, depending on what material your pipes are made from.

Leaking Water Heaters

Older holding-tank water heaters operate continuously, because the heating element has to keep the water at the temperature set on the thermostat. These appliances also contain a large tank of standing water, and depending on the mineral content of water in your municipality, the lining of the tank or the dip pipe inside can corrode over time. A leaky water heater can cause water damage to your home’s floors and walls, and the warm water can also be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Burst Pipes

Old pipes can burst for any reason, and depending on the location and the water pressure in your home, a pipe burst can pour our dozens of gallons per minute. Make sure that you know where your home’s main water shutoff valve is located so that you can quickly stop the flow of water in the event of a burst pipe. If left unattended, a burst pipe can cause expensive water damage and promote mold growth.

For more information on common plumbing issues in Alexandria, consult the FAQ on our site or visit the main page for general information.