Plumbing elements have finite lifespans. Eventually, your pipes, joints, hoses and appliances will wear out, necessitating repairs and replacements–and the earlier you catch these issues, the not as likely you are going to have to fork out more money to repair water and other collateral damage.
Here’s an Summary of the most Frequent plumbing issues in Long Beach, CA so you can keep an eye out for them and call a plumber when necessary:
Running bathroom: If your bathroom is constantly running, you could be seeing a spike on your water bills. Running toilets make an unmistakable trickling sound as water constantly attempts to fill the bowl. If you are not sure whether your toilet is operating, you can drop some food coloring in the tank. If the bowl fills up using colored water although not flushing, it is time to call a plumber.
Dripping faucets: Did you know that a leaking faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water every year? If you have discovered a constant drip drip drip from your faucets, it is probably as a result of a exhausted or misplaced washer. You can probably solve the issue yourself with common household tools and internet tutorials, but for the best results, have a plumber do the job.
Clogs in bath and shower drains: Attempt with a drain guard to decrease hair and soap from clogging up your drains. If the clog is particularly bad, you’ll have to use a snake or call a plumber to get it out, but if it appears slight, try massaging baking soda and vinegar down the drain. The bubbling action will dislodge minor clogs.
Clogged toilets: Many individuals flush items that shouldn’t be flushed, from baby wipes to children’s toys. Try a plunger first, and if that doesn’t loosen the clog, then call a plumber for help.
Jammed or clogged garbage disposal: The garbage disposal isn’t a magic bullet against food clogs, so be careful about what you are putting down there. Fats, oils and grease can still build up and jam your garbage disposal, as can large parts of fibrous food or gristle.
Leaky pipes: Leaky pipes result from age, as well as from freezing over the winter with water still in them.
Make sure that you wrap your pipes before it starts freezing in the fall and winter months, and consider running the water at a trickle to keep things moving. If you become aware of signs of water damage from or around your home, call a plumber straight away.
Sewer system backup: Sewer lines can clog up, break or be choked by intruding tree roots. If the issue is in your property, you will want to call a plumber to fix the issue–otherwise, your sewer company should be responsible.
Water heater issues: if you don’t love cold showers, then having an operable water heater is necessary. Sediment can build up, or the pilot lighting and thermostat may have issues–call a professional to inspect it once you notice issues.