Lesser-Known Plumbing Problems

Clogged drains, a malfunctioning water heater, and backed-up toilets are the most common plumbing issues you’ll encounter. These issues are also well-known and frequently-discussed on plumbing blogs and websites. However, it’s also important to be aware of some of the less-publicized plumbing problems you may experience over the years. Although the plumbing problems highlighted below aren’t as well known among homeowners, they can cause significant damage to your plumbing and your home if they happen to you.

Burst Washing Machine Hose

Did you know that your washing machine could cause a major plumbing problem in your home? Burst washing machine hoses are one of the top reasons homeowners make insurance claims. What is a washing machine hose? Two rubber hoses provide hot and cold water to your washer on laundry day. Unfortunately, these rubber hoses are often quite flimsy and degrade over time. Furthermore, every time your washing machine shuts off the water during a cycle, it creates a shockwave in your plumbing that can break or dislodge the hoses. If not addressed quickly, a burst washing machine hose can cause a major home flood. Fortunately, you can protect yourself from this little-known plumbing problem in many ways. First, replace your hoses regularly—most plumbers recommend doing so every four years. You can have your plumber complete this task easily if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.  To provide additional protection, replace the rubber hoses with steel-braided hoses. Keep in mind that even steel-braided hoses should be replaced every four to five years. Second, find your washer’s water supply and turn off the valve whenever the appliance is not in use. This will reduce pressure on the hoses and prevent random bursting episodes. It’s also a good idea to know where your water supply shutoff is located in case you might need to shut off the water during a flood. Third, never leave your home unattended while washing a load of laundry. If a hose does burst, you want to be present so you can address the situation immediately.

Sediment Buildup Inside Pipes

The water that flows through your plumbing pipes often contains minerals, dirt, and other debris. Over time, these materials build up inside your pipes, slowly making their diameter smaller. This process chokes the pipes and reduces the amount of water that can flow through them when you turn on the tap. Too much sediment will cause a drop in water pressure or even a complete lack of water altogether. Additionally, older plumbing pipes made of galvanized or cast iron will themselves deteriorate over time, producing sediment that may clog other pipes or faucets in the process. If you notice a drop in water pressure or silt and debris visible in your water, your pipes may need to be either flushed or replaced. Contact your plumber to evaluate the situation and advise you on the best course of action. If you live in an area with hard water, installing a water softener system can reduce the amount of minerals present in your water and slow the process of sediment buildup inside pipes and drains. Regularly flushing your water heater to remove sediment inside the tank can also help to prevent transferring that sediment into your plumbing pipes.

A qualified plumber can help you handle any problem you may encounter in your home. Click through our website for a full listing of our plumbing services in Santa Rosa, Windsor, Petaluma, and beyond. You can find additional plumbing tips, information, and suggestions on our blog.