Your plumbing system is one of the most important things to look after but it’s often forgotten. A regular plumbing inspection can help you catch problems early and save you from costly repairs down the line. If you see any of these signs it’s time to book a professional plumbing inspection. Ignoring these can cause big damage to your home and your wallet. In this blog we’ll go over the top 5 signs and how to do to avoid a potential plumbing emergencies by hiring a plumbing professional such as The Plumbers Cardiff.
1. Slow or Clogged Drains
If water in your sinks, showers or bathtubs is draining slower than normal or not at all, this could be a blockage in your drain lines or sewer systems. Over time these blockages can cause pressure to build up and pipes to burst. Slow drains may seem like a minor annoyance but can cause big damage to your plumbing system if left unchecked.
- Why this is bad: Clogged drains can cause backups in your sewer lines, creating unsanitary conditions and even damage to your home’s foundation.
- Solution: A camera inspection by a licensed plumber can find the source of the blockage and prevent costly emergencies. Regular plumbing checks can keep your drainage systems in good nick.
2. Low Water Pressure
Do you notice your water pressure isn’t what it used to be? Low water pressure can be a sign of hidden plumbing problems like leaks, corrosion in your supply lines or issues with your pressure relief valves. While it may seem like a minor issue low water pressure can cause big damage over time.
- Why this is bad: Low water pressure usually means there’s a deeper issue like leaks or corrosion which can lead to high water bills and costly repairs.
- Solution: A full plumbing inspection can find the problem. Licensed plumbers can give you a detailed report of your plumbing components and recommend repairs to get your water pressure back.
3. Bad Smells
Smells coming from your drains or water supply could be a sign of a problem with your sewer lines or sewer pipes. These smells are not only nasty but can also be dangerous, like a sewage backup.
- Why this is bad: Sewage backups can be health hazards and damage your plumbing system beyond repair.
- Solution: If you smell something foul book a professional plumbing check in ASAP. A camera inspection can find the source of the problem and local plumbers can give you a full assessment.
4. Water Stains or Damp Spots
Visible water stains or damp spots on your walls or ceiling can be a sign of hidden leaks. These leaks if left unchecked can cause mould growth, rotting of building materials and structural damage. If you see any signs of moisture get your plumbing checked.
- Why this is bad: Hidden leaks can cause big damage and costly emergencies. Mould growth due to excess moisture is also a health hazard.
- Solution: Book a home plumbing check to find and fix leaks before they cause big damage. A full inspection will ensure your home’s plumbing is in good nick.
5. Gurgling Sounds from Pipes or Toilets
Gurgling sounds coming from your pipes or when you flush your toilets could mean there’s air in your pipes or a blockage in your sewer lines. This is often an early warning sign of a bigger problem that needs attention ASAP.
- Why this is bad: Gurgling sounds usually mean plumbing problems that if left unchecked can lead to costly emergencies like pipe bursts or sewage backups.
- Solution: Get a professional plumbing inspection to diagnose the problem. Fix it early and you won’t need to fix it later.
What to Do if You See These?
If you see any of these signs don’t wait. Book a local plumber to get a full plumbing inspection. It’s important to get your plumbing system checked to avoid costly emergencies later.
For buyers, a pre purchase plumbing inspection is a must to ensure the property is in good condition. A pre purchase plumbing survey will find hidden plumbing problems that aren’t visible during a standard home inspection.
For current property owners, regular professional plumbing inspections are a preventative measure that can save you money and big damage. Make sure your sewage systems, supply lines, water heaters and shut off valves are in good nick to protect your property’s value and no surprises.
How a Plumber Can Help – Typical Plumber Inspections
Hiring a licensed plumber for regular plumbing inspections can save you from a multitude of problems down the road. Plumbers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to assess your plumbing systems, identify hidden issues, and recommend the best solutions to keep your home’s plumbing in good repair. Here’s how a professional plumber can help:
- Comprehensive Inspection: A professional plumbing inspection provides a detailed evaluation of all your plumbing components, including sewer lines, supply lines, drainage systems, water heaters, and pressure relief valves. They can spot hidden leaks, clogs, and plumbing issues before they turn into costly emergencies.
- Camera Inspections: For issues deep within your sewer pipes or drain lines, plumbers can perform a camera inspection to locate blockages, leaks, or damage that may not be visible through a simple visual inspection.
- Preventative Maintenance: Regular inspections by a local plumber help maintain your home’s plumbing system. This includes checking for hidden plumbing problems, inspecting shut off valves, and making sure your water pressure and water heaters are functioning correctly. Preventative maintenance reduces the risk of costly repairs and ensures that your plumbing is in tip-top shape.
- Pre Purchase Plumbing Survey: For prospective buyers, plumbers can conduct a pre purchase plumbing survey to give a detailed report on the condition of the plumbing system. This thorough inspection helps prospective buyers avoid purchasing a property with underlying plumbing problems, offering peace of mind and potentially saving thousands in future repairs.
- Expert Repairs: If issues are found, plumbers provide a professional opinion and offer tailored solutions. Whether it’s fixing a leak, replacing sump pumps, or installing a tankless water heater, a licensed plumber ensures that your plumbing work is done safely and efficiently.
- Emergency Assistance: In the event of a plumbing emergency, having a plumber who is familiar with your property’s condition can help expedite repairs. They can quickly identify and fix the problem, preventing further extensive damage to your home or commercial properties.
By regularly working with plumbing experts, you not only protect your plumbing system but also save money by avoiding expensive repairs and maintaining the value of your property. Whether you need a pre purchase plumbing inspection, a comprehensive plumbing inspection, or assistance with a plumbing emergency, a licensed plumber is your go-to expert for keeping your home’s plumbing in great shape.
Plumbing Inspection Cost
How much does a plumbing inspection cost? Plumbing inspection costs vary depending on the size of the property and the work required. For residential properties a home plumbing inspection usually costs between £100-£300 but a full plumbing survey will cost more. For commercial properties prices will be higher due to the complexity of the plumbing systems.
Pre purchase plumbing surveys for buyers is a small investment that can save you big money from unexpected repairs. The cost of the plumbing inspection is peanuts compared to fixing a major plumbing disaster.
So don’t wait until you’re in a plumbing emergency. Book a regular plumbing inspection to keep your plumbing system running smoothly and hidden problems from becoming big emergencies.