From drinking and gardening to washing and sewage, healthy plumbing and running water play an important role in our businesses and our homes. But when our buildings and infrastructure suffer from poor plumbing work, our lifestyles can be impacted in a number of ways.
For example, poor plumbing work can lead to costly utility bills and affect the quality of your water. In extreme cases, bad plumbing can cause flooding in times of major weather events, impact your health, or even cause structural damage.
You may fairly presume that poor plumbing work is always the result of shoddy workmanship, unskilled “professionals”, or mistakes that were missed or poorly fixed. However, sometimes it is due to ageing or damaged pipes that have degraded over time, or honest but outdated plumbing methods that are no longer compliant with current regulations and standards.
No matter the reason, here are some clear signs that your home might have some issues caused by poor plumbing work.
Common signs of poor plumbing work
Low water pressure
Low water pressure can be frustrating and is often indicative of plumbing problems. It can be caused by a variety of issues, including clogged pipes, faulty pressure regulators, or poorly designed plumbing systems. If you notice a significant decrease in water pressure throughout your home, it’s essential to have a professional plumber assess the situation.
Persistent leaks or pooling
Leaks can be the result of loose or unaligned pipes. Whether it’s a dripping faucet or a running toilet, leaks can lead to significant water wastage and potential water damage. They can also contribute to the growth of mould and mildew which poses health risks. Some leaks are slow or occur in areas where pipes are not visible, like under sinks or behind walls. You can identify them through mysteriously pooling water on the ground or unexplained stains on your walls and ceilings.
Slow draining fixtures
When water doesn’t drain quickly from sinks, tubs, or toilets, it might be a sign that your pipes weren’t installed properly, the wrong pipes were used or there are foreign objects blocking the flow of water. Sometimes a slow drain is ignored since it’s better than no draining at all, but this situation can worsen quickly when left unaddressed.
Unpleasant odours
Foul or musty odours coming from your drains are not only unpleasant but can also be a sign of poor plumbing. These odours can come from a variety of issues, including damaged sewer lines, clogged vents, or improperly installed traps. Ignoring these odours can lead to health hazards and more extensive plumbing problems.
Noisy pipes
If your plumbing system produces strange noises such as clanging, rattling, or hissing, it could be a sign that your system is not suitable for the current pressure level, or you have loose or damaged components. These issues can wear down your plumbing system over time if not addressed.
Discoloured water
Discoloured water can be caused by rusted pipes, sediment buildup, or a deteriorating water heater, whether it’s brown, yellow, or another unnatural colour. Consuming discoloured water can be harmful, and it can also stain your fixtures and clothing so it’s important to do something about it should you encounter this problem
Having plumbing issues? Call in the professionals
Recognising the signs of poor plumbing work is crucial for preventing damage, reducing water bills and maintaining the functionality and safety of your home. When you notice any of these issues, it’s essential to seek professional plumbing services to assess and rectify the problems.
At Allen Plumbing, our team are certified Master Plumbers and can lend their expertise to preventing poor plumbing work from being an issue in your home. If you’ve come across any of the signs we’ve discussed, contact us today. We deliver fast, effective plumbing solutions that fix the problem the first time, every time.
