Plumbing problems are frustrating and often come at the worst possible times. Whether it’s a drain that clogs or a water heater that breaks, it’s important to call a plumber right away to avoid expensive damage.
Plumbers are skilled professionals who install, repair, and maintain pipes, fixtures, and appliances that distribute water, gas, and waste in homes and businesses. Akron Plumber is also trained to diagnose and fix leaks, clogs, and broken fixtures.
Pipe Leaks
Pipe leaks are one of the most common plumbing problems that can lead to serious consequences if left untreated. Whether the leak is from a drain, sewer or water supply line, it can cause major water damage and encourage mold growth in your home. While a pipe leak can be difficult to diagnose and locate, you can take a few steps to repair the problem.
Leaking pipes can be caused by a number of things, including corrosion, wear and tear, physical damage or even from bursting due to high water pressure. It is also important to consider how old your house’s pipes are, as older galvanized metal pipes are more susceptible to corrosion than PVC or copper piping.
Regardless of the cause of the leak, it’s always best to call in a professional plumber as they have the necessary tools and knowledge to assess the situation and provide a lasting solution. While you’re waiting for a plumber to arrive, you can try these three quick fixes to stop the leak and prevent further damage to your home:
The first step in any pipe leak fix is to shut off the water supply. If you’re not sure where the valve is located, turn off all of your water appliances and make sure that any electrical outlets in the area are turned off as well. Next, you’ll want to dry the area and take a look around it for any signs of further damage.
If you’re in a hurry or don’t have access to a professional, fiberglass tape can be a quick and easy way to seal the leak and help protect your home from expensive water damage. According to The Home Depot, you’ll want to make sure that the pipe is dry before applying the tape and choose a product that is appropriate for the pipe material and size. Water supply pipes, for example, require a stronger resin than other pipes.
Another option is to use a leak repair clamp. These are designed to quickly and easily secure over a damaged section of pipe, and they can be used on all types of pipes. To use this type of pipe repair clamp, clean the area thoroughly and then fold the sleeve of the clamp over the damaged portion of the pipe. Once it’s in place, tighten the screws evenly to create a solid and durable seal.
Clogged Drains
If your plumbing system’s pipes are in good shape, you should rarely have to deal with clogged drains. When you do, though, the issue can be a major disruption to your home life and may even require emergency plumbing services.
Most clogs occur when hair, soap scum, food waste and other debris stick to pipe walls over time. If you notice that water drains more slowly than usual or starts smelling foul, this is a sign of an impending clog. You can often fix a surface-level clog by pouring hot water down the drain or using a plunger. It is best to avoid using chemical drain cleaners because they can damage pipes.
It is also a good idea to use strainer inserts in your sinks and showers, and to regularly clean out your garbage disposal. Keeping these and other simple preventive measures in mind should keep your home’s drains clear, but sometimes they won’t be enough to deal with serious blockages.
When a clog occurs, it’s important to take action right away. Letting a clog linger will only cause it to get worse and can lead to flooding, water damage and expensive repairs down the line.
You can sometimes resolve a drain clog by using a homemade remedy of hot water, baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring hot water down the drain, then add the baking soda and vinegar. If the clog persists, try running a wire drain snake (available at most hardware stores) down the drain. Be sure to disconnect the snake before pulling it out of the drain.
Clogs can also be caused by tree roots or if the plumbing system was installed incorrectly when your house was built. In some cases, a clog can be the result of a broken pipe or sewer backup.
It’s important to know the signs of a serious clog so you can call for professional help immediately. If you do notice that more than one drain is clogged at the same time, this indicates that the problem is located farther down the pipes and may require more extensive repair work.
Broken Pipes
Pipes burst due to a variety of reasons. Freezing weather is the most common cause, as cold temperatures can cause pipes to expand and crack. Pipes can also break due to overuse or physical damage. Regardless of the cause, a broken pipe can be dangerous and should be repaired right away.
Some signs of a broken pipe include standing water on the floor or ceiling. If you notice these puddles, call a plumber right away as the longer you leave it, the more damage your home or business will suffer.
You may also notice a foul smell in your home. This is a sign that the pipes are leaking, and the odor is coming from the broken pipe.
Another warning sign is low water pressure in your house. This is a common issue that can be caused by a number of things, including a clogged pipe or a broken one. If you notice low water pressure, contact a plumber right away.
Finally, you should be on the lookout for any new mold or water marks in your walls or ceilings. If you see these, call a plumber immediately as it could be a sign of a broken pipe behind the wall or ceiling. The mold and water marks are likely caused by a leaky pipe and could result in major structural damage.
There are several ways to fix a broken pipe. If the pipe is exposed, you can shut off the water supply valve on the wall or ceiling by turning it clockwise. You can also try using a slip coupling to make a temporary repair. This will help take some of the pressure off of the pipe and will work on both metal and plastic pipes.
If the pipe is located behind a finished wall or ceiling, you will need to open up the drywall or other material. Start by locating the studs in the wall, which you can do by knocking on the wall and listening for a solid sound. Cut along the marks with a utility knife and a keyhole saw, being careful not to cut into any electrical wires or other pipes that run through the wall.
Water Heater Repair
When your hot water stops working, you need a Carter professional to diagnose and fix the problem. If the issue is minerals in your pipes, a new water heater installation may be in order. If your incoming water isn’t hot enough, you could have a dip tube problem or an issue with the temperature control valve.
To properly diagnose and repair a gas water heater, it’s important to understand how the appliance functions. There are a few key components involved in this operation, including the burner assembly that ignites natural gas to heat the water; control valves managing the flow rate and temperature inside the tank; a pilot flame lighting up the main burners when necessary; and a thermocouple acting as a safety device shutting off the supply of gas when the pilot light goes out.
Before starting any repairs, make sure the gas supply is turned off. To do this, attach a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank, then turn on the faucets and drain the water. After allowing the tank to drain completely, disconnect the water lines using channel-lock pliers or a pipe wrench for compression fittings and a pipe cutter for soldered connections.
Once you have disconnected the water heater, disconnect the power to it as well. Next, use a ladder to reach the top of the unit and pull out the dip tube. If the tube is caked with mineral deposits or worn out, replace it; a new one costs $20 to $50.