Ownership of an older home provides a unique experience full of charm and character. However, that can also include outdated plumbing systems that are prone to leaks and clogs.
If you’re living in an older home and experiencing issues like clogged drains, it might be time to call in a professional plumber for inspection.
Leaky Pipes
Many old homes have pipes made from outdated materials that are prone to corrosion. Galvanized steel pipes can rust and develop leaks over time, while clogs and low water pressure are often caused by lead pipe joints. Replacing older pipes with modern copper or PEX can improve both water quality and flow.
Dripping faucets and fixtures waste a significant amount of water, costing you money and increasing your utility bills. Worn washers, gaskets and seals are usually to blame for these issues, which can be easily fixed with a new replacement part.
Older houses often have sewer lines made from clay or cast iron, which are not as durable as modern PVC pipes. Over time, these deteriorate and break down, leading to clogged drains and potential damage to the home’s foundation. Regular professional cleaning and inspection of the sewer line can help prevent these problems from occurring. A professional plumber can also help ensure that your pipes are in good condition and free of intruding tree roots.
Low Water Pressure
Water pressure can be reduced for a number of reasons. A common cause is a leak in your water lines. Leaks may be visible, or they can be less obvious. If you suspect this is the problem, try running all of your fixtures to see if they have low pressure in one area or throughout the house. Faucets, showerheads, and dishwasher inlet hoses can all be sources of low water pressure. Dirt, rust, and other debris can build up in these fixtures and restrict the flow of water.
Another reason for low water pressure is corrosion. Older homes with galvanized pipe can experience corrosion that reduces the internal diameter of pipes and restricts water flow. This is a common issue in older homes and should be addressed.
A malfunctioning or clogged pressure regulator can also cause low water pressure in your home. These valves are typically preset for a specific water pressure, and they can wear out over time.
Sewer Line Blockages
Sewer line blockages are a huge problem, and they’re often caused by the wrong kinds of things being flushed down drains. Wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, and cooking grease can all clog pipes over time if they aren’t properly disposed of in the trash. Fats, oils, and grease also bind together to form “fatbergs”
that choke off lines, causing wastewater to back up into homes.
Tree roots are another major cause of sewer line problems. Roots are attracted to the warmth and moisture of sewage pipes, wreaking havoc by expanding around the inside of the pipe. Over time, this can lead to cracks and breaks.
Shifting ground and insufficient ground support can also cause problems with older sewer lines. Those shifts can lead to the sagging of the pipe, creating a low spot where waste and debris collect. This can also result in the line collapsing entirely. Sewer line collapses can be very dangerous, resulting in messy and potentially toxic wastewater backups that require emergency assistance.
Pipe Bellies
Many older homes have had bad plumbing repairs made to them, either by the original homeowner or by incompetent handymen. These improper repairs put more strain on the pipes than they can handle, which leads to leaks and clogs. If a particular area of the sewer line continues to clog repeatedly, this may be an indication of a pipe belly.
Pipe bellies are formed when buried pipes start to shift and sag. This creates downward slopes in the pipe that affect water flow and increase the risk of serious clogs.
If you’re in an older home, have it inspected for these plumbing problems by a professional plumber to avoid costly mishaps. They can also ensure the piping and materials comply with modern building codes. Depending on the extent of the issue, your plumber may recommend hydro jetting or snaking to clear minor clogs, or they may need to replace the affected section of the line. For more help with plumbing needs in older homes, sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/leak-detection-melbourne/ can provide you with a lot of information on services.