7 Telltale Signs It’s Time to Call a Plumber

Plumbing repairs can cost a staggering $5,000, which shows how important taking immediate action is. 

Calling a plumber promptly is essential for reducing the risk of damage and extending the lifespan of your appliances. But, if you’re not sure what to look out for, it’s difficult identifying the telltale signs. Maybe that’s why you’re here; you’re not sure what to call a plumber and are searching for advice.   

Hit the nail on the head? No worries, we’ve got you back. Here are seven signs that it’s time to call a plumber. 

1. Reduced Water Pressure 

A major reason to find a plumber is if you’ve noticed a drop in water pressure. Test the faucet in your bathroom to check how strong the pressure is because it could be a clogged aerator. If this is the case, clean the component for an easy fix. 

But, in the worst-case scenario, water pressure is a result of cracked or broken pipes that a local plumbing service can deal with.  

2. No Hot Water 

Homeowners should Google “plumber near me” if there’s no hot water. Sure, if a family member has had an hour-long shower there may not be any, but this shouldn’t happen randomly. Also, a major red flag is that it takes several hours to warm the water.

Often, you won’t have hot water if the tank is too small for the system. Or, it could be because there’s a drip in one of the pipes that cause the tank to shut down. Luckily, a reliable plumber can pinpoint the reason why the temperature is fluctuating. 

3. Water Leaks 

You should contact an emergency plumber if you’ve noticed water leaks.

For instance, you may notice water leaking from shower heads, toilets, or faucets that can seep into your home’s foundation and cause structural damage. If this isn’t dealt with immediately, it can cost a fortune in repairs, so get in the habit of looking out for this.  

Further, listen out for banging sounds in the pipes. This could indicate water pressure or flow issues because the air pockets fill up. Plumbers will test this by draining the water’s plumbing system and installing hammer arresters to prevent further issues down the line. 

4. Soggy Patches in Your Yard

Hasn’t rained and there are soggy patches in the yard? Then, it’s time to call a local plumber for their expertise. 

First, evaluate your irrigation system to check for signs of leaking. If everything looks normal, there could be an issue with the sewer line or water underground. Although it’s tempting to take matters into your hand, there’s a risk of furthering the problem and racking up even higher water bills.  

5. Drains Aren’t Draining

Drain problems are another telltale sign that you have plumbing issues. This is often caused by clogged pipes in the sinks, toilets, or bathtubs. To prevent this, take out a plunger and use it to unclog the pipes.

But, if you haven’t noticed any improvement, it’s wise to call a plumber. These professionals have essential tools like a camera that can look deeper into the pipes to determine the long-term issue. For instance, pipes may be clogged with hair, grease, or even fat if it’s the kitchen sink. 

Also, seek professional help if clogged drains are a consistent problem because it could be a serious issue.  

6. High Water Bills 

Another common red flag is high water bills, especially if there has been a drastic change. Again, this could be a water leak somewhere in your house, which is costing you a fortune. You should also look out for mold growth or discoloration caused by water damage.  

Further, homeowners should regularly check on the water heater. You should be worried if it looks like it’s sweating because that’s a sign of a slow, steady leak. Note, it may be damp in the surrounding area or around the pilot light and is often caused by cracks in the piping. 

7. Smells of Sewage 

Homeowners should seek professional help if they notice the smell of sewage. In most cases, this is because of a clogged pipe that produces a foul odor. For example, the drainpipe may have poor ventilation or could build up over an extended period.  

How to Find a Reliable Plumber 

Not all plumbers are created equal, so knowing how to find a reputable one is essential.

Start by asking friends and family for recommendations, especially if they’ve had recent plumbing issues. The beauty is that loved ones will be honest about the service will help you avoid any dodgy plumbing companies. Also, if you’ve got a regular HVAC contractor, ask them for guidance because most reputable will happily share references. 

Further, check out third-party review sites to learn more about the contractor’s services. This will stop you from falling for any claims made on the candidate’s website as it will be biased. 

Homeowners should also compare the competition. After enough research, you’ll learn more about the industry and get an idea of the going rates. You should also narrow down the list by only choosing companies that have received industry-related awards.  

Call a Plumber Today

Hopefully, you now know when to call a plumber. 

There are many signs that you need professional help, such as no hot water or reduced pressure. Homeowners should also be mindful of water leaks and the consistent smell of sewage as that’s a major red flag. Good luck! 

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