Problems around the house always seem to appear at the wrong time (usually when you can least afford a repair bill!). It’s usually the fear of repair costs that leads many homeowners to ignore warning signs of a bigger problem. Ignorance can be bliss, but not when it comes to plumbing. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s highly likely you have an underlying problem, and it’s time to call a plumber.
Changing Toilet Water Levels
The first sign of a bigger plumbing problem often appears in the toilet because it is the main drain to the sewer. Watch for any, or a combination of, these symptoms:
- Your toilet keeps running after flushing
- Water rising and taking a long time to drain after flushing
- Low water levels in the bowl
- Unpleasant smells
- Gurgling or rising water levels in the bowl when other taps are in use
A blockage in the toilet itself is not such a serious problem, but if the issue is further down in the pipes, you need a plumber before the problem gets worse.
Slow Running Drains
Slow draining sinks are easy to ignore or simply accept as a part of life. However, it is important to remember that the longer you ignore this symptom, the worse it will get. Small blockages are usually easily fixed with a plunger, but if the blockage doesn’t clear, it’s best to enlist the services of a local plumber to check things out. Always try and minimise how much waste (food scraps, hair, paper etc.) goes down your drains.
Strange Noises and Suspicious Smells
Smells, stains and noises are never a good thing when it comes to plumbing! Musty smells in one room of your house, strong smells from toilets, showers, sinks or bathtubs, stains on the bathroom ceiling or walls, and rattling pipes are all signs of a deeper issue. You might have a water leak, or there could be a blockage in the system. Only a professional plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it.
Worried about a blocked drain? Funny smells coming from your sink? Call your local residential plumber – Healthy Plumbing. We service Nowra and all areas of the Shoalhaven.