How to Spot Signs of Plumbing Problems

Many homeowners dread plumbing problems. These issues seem to occur out of nowhere, causing water damage and inconvenience at any time of the day or night. However, making a monthly check of your home’s plumbing can provide the clues you need to address a plumbing issue before it causes a disaster. Keep reading to learn how you can spot signs of plumbing problems in your Houston home.

Check Your Water Pressure

Water pressure is often a gauge of a home’s plumbing health. In many cases, a noticeable drop in water pressure is due to sediment buildup inside your pipes. This is a sign that the pipes are nearing the end of their usable lifetime and must be replaced. If you aren’t sure whether your water pressure is starting to suffer, you can purchase a water pressure gauge at your local hardware store. Check the water pressure at various points outside your home, both with and without the water running inside. Make note of your readings and compare them each month to spot a progressive problem with your water pressure.

Check Your Faucets

Leaky faucets are a common source of wasted water—and wasted money on your monthly utility bills. Once a month, check every faucet inside and outside your home for leaks or drips. This task is especially important if you have faucets in little-used areas of your home, such as a garage or basement. If you spot a leak, contact your plumber to address the issue as soon as possible. The sooner your leak is fixed, the sooner you will enjoy paying less for water each month.

Check Your Washing Machine Hose

One of the most common causes of home flooding is a broken washing machine hose. Most homes employ a simple rubber hose to connect the washing machine to its source of water. However, rubber hoses should be replaced every three to five years to prevent breakage due to age. Check your hose regularly and replace it immediately if you see indications of wear or cracking. Additionally, the next time you replace your hose, consider purchasing a steel braided hose rather than a rubber one. These hoses are more durable and less likely to cause problems, but should still be replaced every five years.

Check Your Floors, Walls, Ceilings, and Yard

Hidden leaks can cause extensive water—and mold—damage to your home if they aren’t caught and addressed. Every month, do a quick check of your home’s walls, ceilings, and floors. Look for signs of water damage such as dark stains, rust or mold, bubbling wallpaper, and cracked or buckling tiles. When you’re done checking your home’s interior, take a walk through your yard to search for spongy, soggy patches that could indicate problems with your water main or sprinkler system. If you do encounter signs of a leak but aren’t sure of the source, contact your plumber to perform an assessment of your home’s plumbing to find the problem and fix it.

Could your home use a plumbing check-up? Visit our website to find out more about our residential plumbing services or to request a residential plumbing assessment in the Houston area. Take a look through the articles on our blog for more tips on home plumbing troubles and how to spot them.