A drip in the faucet here, blocked drain there, plumbing problems can arise anytime. Some are easy enough to fix yourself, however others require the assistance of a trained professional. Having an understanding of common plumbing problems can save you money on repair costs down the road. There are several major plumbing issues to be on the lookout for: Leaky Pipes A common problem is leaky pipes. They can be due to a variety of causes. Pipes can corrode over time because of normal wear and tear, or the aging process. Other times, the pipes may leak due to serious issues, like the rupture of a pipe. If an leaky pipe isn't fixed immediately this can cause severe problems for the house and the homeowner. The water that escapes from pipes can damage the ceilings and walls. This also creates a humid, damp environment, which makes it ideal for mold growth. Mold can also result in structural damage to ceilings and walls, and lead to costly repairs. Most people do not realize the existence of a leaking pipe until after they have paid thousands of dollars for repairs. Professional plumbers can quickly and efficiently identify and fix any leaks inside the house. Drain Blockages Clogged drains are among the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. If left untreated, a blocked drain can cause mold to grow leaks, water leaks or sewage back-ups within your house, and may cause damage to your structure. The drain pipes that are in your home are intended to take care of the waste. However, they may become blocked with particles like hair, soap scum, and food scraps. When this debris gets accumulated in your bathtubs, sinks and toilets will not function properly. There may be noises coming from the pipes as water and air gurgle. If your home's drains get slow or clogged they could be a sign that the main sewer line is experiencing been blocked. Avoid this problem by taking measures to restrict what is going down your drains including avoiding so-called flushable sanitary wipes and other products and using kitchen rags rather than cloths to clean dishes. Be sure to place cooking grease in the garbage bin instead of down your sinks. Sewer Backups Sewer backups are among of the most difficult plumbing issues homeowners could confront. They're not only unpleasant and unattractive, they also expose residents to dangerous bacteria that can cause them to become sick. Raw sewage can Have a peek here also pose a threat to porous materials such as floors, drywall or furniture. Stop the water valve immediately if waste has backed up in your home. The house. Switch off the power if wastewater is near outlets for electricity. Typically an issue with a sewer backup happens when your house's drain pipes or your main sewer line gets clogged. Be aware of gurgling sounds when you drain or flush your toilet. This means there is the presence of a blockage. You can't control some things that can cause a backup in your sewer system, like earthquakes, shifting of land, or the aging of your pipes. If you live in a home with older cast iron or clay pipes, think about having the pipes replaced to avoid an eventual backup. Low Water Pressure If you've tried everything outlined above to boost the water pressure in your home and still not enough pressure, it may be time to get a plumber. Professional plumbers can quickly diagnose and resolve problems with pipes, which can include blockages. A plumber in Canberra can also safely turn off the water supply for the entire home, if needed. They can ensure that leaks aren't caused by corroded pipes or household members. Another cause of low water pressure is the branches that connect your water spout to the fixtures. They can become corroded or clogged due to acidic, unbalanced pH water and other issues that cause a wear and tear on the piping. The plumber will determine whether the piping can be cleaned, or if it is required to be replaced. They'll also look over your home for leaks. If you have an apartment with multiple stories it is recommended to start at the lowest level and turn on faucets from the bottom up to test your water pressure in every area of the home.