There are some common plumbing problems that everyone is likely to encounter at some point, so knowing what causes these issues and how to address them can help better prepare you. That said, sometimes the issue can be invisible, which makes it hard to recognise that there is something amiss. So, how do you know if you have plumbing problems?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here at Nuflow, we\u2019ve identified the issues we come across most often as well as the common causes. It\u2019s important to be able to diagnose plumbing problems, and know what to do when they arise to make sure they don\u2019t get progressively worse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luckily, it\u2019s pretty obvious when you\u2019re facing issues with a blocked pipe or drain. The signs are immediate, whether it be a slow-emptying sink or shower water that doesn\u2019t want to go down the drain. It\u2019s best to tackle this plumbing problem quickly, and prevent it from becoming a much bigger issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are a few things that might be clogging up your pipes and drains. It could be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Nuflow, we\u2019ve even seen cases of cement finding its way into a pipe during construction and solidifying later!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It could be a quick fix, so it\u2019s always a good idea to try clearing it yourself first. You can do this by pouring boiling water down the drain to loosen up any build-ups. If that doesn\u2019t work, have a crack with a plunger or some chemical drain cleaning products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the issue still isn\u2019t resolved, you\u2019ll need to call in professional help. They can use pressure cleaners to blast away blockages, and if needed, Nuflow\u2019s pipe relining<\/a> can fix any breaks with minimal disruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The washer is a part within your tap that sits on something called a valve seat. These pieces work together to form the tap\u2019s seal at the base and stop water getting through. When the washer gets damaged, or the valve seat is corroded, this can cause the tap to leak. It\u2019s the same for the O ring, which sits just under the handle cover. If it gets worn out, water will start to drip through. It can also be a case of a bad installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The washer is a part within your tap that sits on something called a valve seat. These pieces work together to form the tap\u2019s seal at the base and stop water getting through. When the washer gets damaged, or the valve seat is corroded, this can cause the tap to leak. It\u2019s the same for the O ring, which sits just under the handle cover. If it gets worn out, water will start to drip through. It can also be a case of a bad installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you feel confident with a bit of DIY, you can take your tap apart and check the condition of the O ring, washer, and valve seat. If anything looks to be on its last legs, you can choose to replace it yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When problems persist, or you don\u2019t feel confident tackling it on your own, you may have to call in an expert. This job is much easier to do with professional plumbing tools and you can rest assured knowing it\u2019s been fixed correctly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Low water pressure can be one of the most frustrating plumbing problems out there. You\u2019ll likely know as soon as you turn on your water and are met with a disappointing drip that your water pressure is low. It makes simple tasks, like washing the dishes or showering, much more difficult than they have to be \u2013 not to mention annoying! Weak water pressure can come on with no warning or gradually get worse over time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You might find the dip in your water pressure is be due to a water main break. If your neighbours are experiencing the same thing, this is likely the cause. Otherwise, it might be due to a build-up of calcium, minerals, or sediment in your taps and showerheads, or in the pipes themselves. These build-ups significantly slow your water flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First things first, get in and get your hands dirty by giving your taps and shower heads a good clean. We recommend unscrewing the ends so you can remove the aerators, and soaking them in vinegar or other cleaning products to eliminate any calcium build up. If that doesn\u2019t solve the issue, the build-up may be in the pipe itself. A professional can clear this with a pressure cleaner, and blast away any sediment that\u2019s impacting your water flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a big one, and probably the worst plumbing problem to deal with. But how do know it\u2019s happening? Well, you could be facing a number of smaller issues that might seem unrelated, like multiple drain and toilet blockages, but these are symptoms of a much larger problem. Plus, there will be a pretty nasty smell permeating through your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your backed up sewer could be thanks to issues with the main sewer being clogged. Otherwise, old sewer lines are often made from cast iron or clay, making them prone to collapse. These materials, combined with the warm, damp soil that surrounds them, also makes it easy for tree roots to get inside, or to surround and crush your pipes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sadly, this is not a problem you can fix on your own. Call in the professionals, and they can assess the damage and let you know whose responsibility it is to get it repaired. If the sewer that\u2019s causing the issues is not on your property, then it falls to the local water authority. If it is on you to correct, the experts can suggest the easiest, most cost-effective method for resolving the plumbing problem. Find out more about responsibilities surrounding pipe ownership here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nLeaking taps <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What causes it?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to fix it<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Low water pressure <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What causes it?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to fix it<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Backed up sewer <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What causes it?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to fix it<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Call Nuflow for help<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n