Glendora is home to many older houses that date back to the end of the orange grove era. However, even the most newly developed homes in Glendora aren't immune to plumbing and drain issues. As a homeowner, understanding common plumbing problems can save you time, money, and headache. In this article, we'll explore some frequent plumbing issues our Glendora Plumbers face— and share practical tips to help you avoid unexpected and costly repairs.
Leaky Faucets
A leaky faucet is not just a a small annoyance; it can also lead to higher water bills. This is one of the most common plumbing issues our glendora plumbers encounter. The constant dripping is usually caused by worn-out washers or gaskets which is typically a side effect of high water pressure or hard water buildup. Fixing a leaky faucet is a straightforward task that you can often do yourself with basic tools.
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Before you start, make sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the Handle: Use a screwdriver to remove the handle and access the valve.
- Replace the Washer or Gasket: Once you reach the valve, replace the worn-out washer or gasket with a new one.
- Reassemble the Faucet: Put the faucet back together and turn the water supply on to test your repair.
Note: Some older faucets that may be damaged with hard water may not be repairable.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are another frequent issue in many Glendora homes. Whether it's the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or mainline stoppage, clogs can cause water to back up and lead to unpleasant odors and potential water damage if not noticed quickly.
Preventing Clogged Drains
- Use a Drain Strainer: Install a strainer in your sinks and showers to catch hair and food particles.
- Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain: Grease can solidify and cause blockages in your pipes.
- Regularly Clean Drains: Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean and deodorize your drains monthly.
- Schedule regular drain cleaning if you have roots in your sewer system.
Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water, increasing your water bill. This issue is often due to a faulty flapper valve, which can be easily replaced.
How to Fix a Running Toilet
- Remove the Tank Lid: Carefully take off the tank lid to access the internal components.
- Inspect the Flapper Valve: Check if the flapper valve is sealing properly. If not, it may need replacement.
- Replace the Flapper Valve: Purchase a compatible flapper valve from a hardware store and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions(TOTO toilets require a non universal flapper).
- Test the Toilet: Once replaced, flush the toilet to ensure the running has stopped.
Low Water Pressure
Experiencing low water pressure can be frustrating, especially when showering or washing dishes. This problem can be due to several factors, including buildup of rust in old galvanized pipes, leaks, or issues with the water supply line.
Improving Water Pressure
- Check for Leaks: Inspect your home for any visible leaks and repair them promptly.
- Clean Faucets and Showerheads: Mineral deposits can clog fixtures. Remove them and soak in vinegar to dissolve buildup.
- Inspect the Water Pressure Regulator: If you have one, ensure it's functioning correctly. You might need a professional to adjust or replace it.
- Clean aerators often to remove rust buildup that may be in the pipe.
Sewer Problems
Many homes in Glendora were built 1950-1968. What does this mean? It means many homes have original cast iron plumbing and terra cotta clay plumbing. Cast-iron pipes are notorious for rusting and rotting away, causing repetitive plumbing problems. On the other hand, clay is brutal piping that is notorious for offsets and intrusion also leading to ongoing plumbing problems. Read more about different types of pipes used of sewers and drains.
Sewer/Drain Tips
Drain Cleaning: regularly clean your drains to prevent soft buildup from solidifying and becoming a Repair, wether drain cleaning, Hydro jetting, or descaling.
Water Heater Issues
Water heaters are essential for a comfortable home, but they can encounter issues like not producing enough hot water or making strange noises.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips
- Flush the Tank Annually: Sediment can build up in the tank, affecting efficiency. Flushing it once a year can help.
- Check the Thermostat: Make sure it's set to the correct temperature.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for signs of water leakage around the heater.
Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is a serious issue that can cause extensive water damage to your home. This is often due to old corroded pipes, or in some track homes, hard water affecting thin copper.
Preventing Burst Pipes
- Water softening: Hard water is a common enemy of thin copper. Water softeners are not only good for your skin, but good for extending the life of your pipes.
- Repipe: If you have had multiple leaks, the writing is on the wall. Nothing lasts forever and repiping may be the best long term investment for your home.
- Regular Inspections: Have a professional inspect your plumbing system regularly to identify potential weak spots.
- Check Pressure: high pressure is partnered with hard water damaging pipes, ensure that your pressure is kept to a safe PSSI to minimize risk of pipe burst due to pressure
Conclusion
Understanding and addressing common plumbing problems can prevent small issues from turning into costly repairs. By following these maintenance tips and performing regular checks, you can keep your Glendora home's plumbing system in excellent condition. Remember, while some plumbing issues can be resolved with DIY methods, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber for more complex problems to ensure your home's plumbing remains safe and efficient.
