5 Signs Your Plumbing System Needs Urgent Attention

August 21, 2023

If the bathroom floor is flooded with sewage, then it’s obviously too late to prevent a plumbing catastrophe. But if you spot any of the following signs, then you still have a shot at averting a serious plumbing issue.

Weak water flow

If multiple faucets have a weak water flow, then there may be an issue involving the water main, hot water heater or the supply line. Each of these issues will require a professional inspection and repair.

That smell!

A home’s plumbing system has traps and drains responsible for keeping sewer gas from seeping into the home. Vents channel sewer odor up to the roof and drain traps serve as a barrier to sewer odors coming up through the sink drain. If you suddenly smell sewer gas, then the cause may be a dry trap or a cracked vent line. A dry trap can be fixed by refilling it with water or checking for leaks. A cracked sewer vent will take more work and may require digging through drywall to find and repair the vent.

Discolored pipes

If the pipes under your sink are changing colors — especially around a union — then you can be sure the cause is moisture. This moisture can be caused by a leak from the sink, drain line or supply line. If the leak is coming from the supply line then the issue is very serious and should be checked out ASAP.

Clogged or slow drains

Slow drains can often be easily fixed by removing the clog near the drain. But, if the issue is further down the pipe, then it’s best to reach out to a qualified plumber. It may even turn out that slow drains are being caused by something more serious, like tree roots, obstructing the sewer line.

Frozen pipes

During winter, it isn’t uncommon to have frozen plumbing pipes cause a sudden drop in water pressure. If water supply lines run through a crawl space, attic or other unheated space, then the ice is holding the water back. Once the ice begins to thaw, you may be faced with a leak.

Call An Expert

Reach out to Hamilton Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Rooter to learn how to keep your plumbing pipes from freezing.