In wanting to save money, homeowners often attempt to address plumbing problems DIY-style. This is reasonable when dealing with simple plumbing issues, such as unclogging a drain or fixing a leaking faucet.
However, when certain signs arise, it’s best to call a professional plumber. But how do you know if and when you need to? Here are eight signs that should help you determine when it’s time to call a plumber:
1. Unusual and persistent noises
We’ve all heard the occasional gurgle from a sink or toilet, which is generally nothing to worry about.
However, if you hear strange noises from your pipes when you haven’t recently used any of the taps or appliances attached to them, then it’s time to call Dr. Fin Plumbing and Air Conditioning for professional help.
Here are some of the more common noises that might indicate a problem:
- A high-pitched whistling or shrieking when the water is running
- Gurgling when air passes through the drain lines
- Rattling when you turn on faucets, showers, or toilets.
What do these sounds mean?
These highly unusual noises could be caused by a buildup of air in the pipes or an obstruction, like a tree root, blocking the water flow. Or they could indicate a much bigger problem, like worn-out parts or deteriorated pipes.
When you hear these sounds, and they are persistent, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to troubleshoot and repair the issue. They can inspect the pipes and fix any damaged pieces, so you can start enjoying a quieter home again.
2. Slow-moving drains
Clogged drains are more common than you think, and if the clog is only caused by debris, such as food particles or soap scum, you might be able to unclog it yourself.
But when the drainage is truly slow-moving and nothing you do – plunging, chemical drain cleaners, etc. – seems to work, it’s time to call a plumber. This also applies if your drains aren’t draining at all, as there could be a bigger problem at hand.
Why should you call a plumber for slow-moving drains?
If your drains are truly slow-moving, chances are it’s because of a bigger problem. In other words, there might be a larger obstruction (like tree roots) blocking the pipes, or the pipes themselves may have become damaged over time.
And sometimes, your previous efforts at unclogging may have made the problem worse. It’s best to leave it to a professional when you can’t seem to fix the issue yourself.
They can inspect the pipes and clear out the blockage, or they may even suggest replacing sections of the pipe if necessary.
3. Leaks in walls or ceilings
Do you notice damp spots on your walls or ceilings? Take a close look to see if they’re caused by leaks. These can be signs of a broken or cracked pipe, and since pipes are hidden in walls and ceilings, you won’t be able to fix them yourself.
What are the signs your wall or ceiling is leaking?
Here are some signs that you may have a leak:
• Discolored walls or ceilings
• Peeling paint
• Dripping water when it’s not raining
• Musty smell in the room
• Warped or buckling floors or walls
If you see these signs, then it usually indicates a major plumbing issue, and you should call a plumber right away. A Professional plumber can get ahead of the problem before it worsens and cause more extensive damage to your home.
4. Water pooling in the yard or driveway
Do you find water pooling in your yard or driveway when it hasn’t been raining? Well, this could be a sign that there’s an issue with your plumbing. If the water appears to be coming from one spot, then it likely means you have a broken pipe underground.
Whereas when the water is pooling in multiple spots, then it could be due to a leaky septic tank.
Either way, you should call a plumber when you spot this issue in your yard.
What can happen when you don’t call a plumber?
If left unfixed, this problem can cause serious damage to your property and landscape and could even lead to health hazards. So when you spot water pooling in your yard, get a professional on the job as soon as possible.
5. Unusually large water bills
Are you getting hit with higher-than-usual water bills? Or maybe you’ve noticed that your water bills have been steadily rising, even when you haven’t changed anything in the household.
What are the common reasons for high water bills?
A few of the most common reasons for high water bills include the following:
- Leaky pipes
- Running toilets
- Worn-out parts
- Broken water heater
If you suspect that any of these issues may be causing your high water bills, then it’s time to call in a plumber. They can inspect the plumbing and pinpoint the source of the problem, so you don’t waste time and money.
6. Water main issues
The water main is a pipe that supplies water to your house from the city. Some signs you have water main issues include the following:
- Low water pressure
- Discolored or murky-looking water when you turn on the taps
- A sudden increase in your water bill
If you notice any of these signs, then it’s best to get a plumber to come out and inspect the water main. This could indicate an issue with the pipe or connections, which can easily lead to bigger problems if left unchecked.
What causes water main issues?
The most common causes of water main issues include corrosion, tree roots growing in the pipe, and mineral buildup. When this happens, it can cause a blockage in the pipe, preventing water from flowing properly to your house.
7. There’s a bad smell coming from your plumbing
As you go about your daily routine, you suddenly notice an unpleasant smell coming from the plumbing. People describe the smell as similar to rotten eggs, and if this is the case, it usually indicates a problem with your sewer line.
What causes bad smells from the plumbing?
The most common cause of bad smells from plumbing is when wastewater isn’t draining properly or when a clog has formed somewhere in the pipe. This usually means the clog has gone unnoticed for some time, so when you notice the smell, it’s best to call a plumber immediately.
8. An overflowing toilet
One of the worst (and most common) plumbing issues is when the toilet overflows. The next time you flush the toilet, watch out for signs that the bowl is starting to fill up when it shouldn’t. This usually means a clog in the pipes, and you need to call a plumber immediately.
What are the causes of an overflowing toilet?
The most common culprits of an overflowing toilet include foreign objects in the toilet, the buildup of waste in the pipes, or a broken flapper valve.
We don’t recommend you DIY when it comes to fixing a clogged or overflowing toilet, as this is a job best left to the professionals.
Conclusion
The question of when to call a plumber doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. The key is to be aware of certain issues and when to call in the professionals.
No matter what plumbing issue you encounter, it’s best to always err on the side of caution and give your local plumbing experts a call before things get worse. They can quickly diagnose the issue and get your plumbing running smoothly again.