Have you been debating updating the old pipes and leaky fixtures in your bathroom for a while now? We’re here to help you decide whether it’s time. Here are five signs to watch for and what to do if you notice any of the following problems in your home.
If your water pressure is low when you’re running the water at the faucet or taking a shower, this could be a sign that your pipes are corroding and, unfortunately, there’s not much you can do other than replace them. As pipes degrade, corrosion builds up, and the diameter inside the pipe becomes smaller, restricting water flow.
If your piping system isn’t old enough to be degrading, low water pressure could be due to a number of other things, such as a clog, a malfunctioning water heater, or a leaky pipe. If you’re not sure of the source of the problem, call a plumber to inspect your plumbing system for you.
If your water has any rust in it or has a foul smell (like rotten eggs), your water heater may need to be replaced. The rods in water heaters that prevent bacteria and corrosive elements from entering your pipes can break down over time. When they do, they can’t perform their jobs properly, and your water quality can suffer.
Other signs of poor water quality include a metallic taste or brown, red, blue, green, or yellow discoloration.
If you notice wet areas, water damage, or mold on walls or ceilings, you have a leak that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Call your plumber to fix the leak or replace old piping if necessary. If you have a minor leak in a faucet or showerhead due to a worn pieces or loose part, it could be easy to fix on your own. Check out our article, “6 Reasons Your Faucet Might Be Dripping” to learn about several simple fixes.
Minerals in water can eventually lead to corrosion in plumbing, especially in older homes. Old fixtures can also wear down over time due to normal use. If your defective hardware can’t be easily repaired or becomes a safety hazard (e.g. pieces of metal chip off and enter the water stream), replace it. This can often be done without a professional’s help.
This one is really more a matter of personal preference than necessity. If the fixtures in your bathroom look like they were pulled straight out of The Brady Bunch or they’re scuffed, chipped, and unattractive, replacing them with modern fixtures can help freshen up your bathroom.
If you need your water heater, bathroom plumbing fixture, or any other plumbing system in your home inspected or repaired, contact RFV Plumbing & Electric. If you live in the Roaring Fork Valley and your problem has to do with plumbing, we can fix it!