6 Signs It’s Time To Call In A Plumbing Pro

Many homeowners consider themselves to be handy—and frankly, it’s a great skill to have. But when it comes to plumbing repairs, small DIY projects can turn into near-disasters quicker than you can say, “Do you hear that drip?” 

Did you know that the average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water PER DAY?  That is a lot of water coursing throughout your house. Remember, there’s a whole maze-like system of pipes inside your walls and underneath your floorboards that can host any number of cracks, leaks, mold, and more. A leaky faucet is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to your home’s plumbing.

So, when exactly should you set aside your “I can do it myself” confidence?  Here are the six signs that it’s time to call in a plumbing professional.

1. You suddenly have low water pressure. Low water pressure is often an obvious sign that something has gone wrong with your plumbing system. The fix could be as simple as cleaning the aerator of a faucet, which can be done with a little vinegar to break up any sediment. Or the problem might be something as serious as a cracked pipe. If you notice the low pressure in more than one sink or tub then it’s time to call a professional. A pipe leaking under your foundation could lead to serious—and seriously expensive—damage if not addressed promptly.
   
   
2. You can’t get hot water quickly or it becomes lukewarm too soon. Sure, if your spouse or kids are running hot showers for an hour, it makes sense that you’d run out of hot water! But, it shouldn’t take long for it to heat back up. If you experience wild temperature swings, there might be something wrong with your water heater—an easy fix—or it could be a more worrisome flaw in a pipe. A licensed plumber can help you determine if your heat loss is coming from a pilot light that’s gone out or if the problem is more serious. They’ll also know how to inspect your pipes, thermostats, fuses, and other heating elements.
   
   
3. You notice water stains on your floors or ceilings. You don’t have to be a professional to know that stains are a bad sign. Stains indicate that water has been leaking and pooling long enough that it’s already created damage in your home. If you spot discoloration on your floor (or even the ceiling!) call a professional right away so that they can get on top of the problem before it gets any worse.
   
   
4. You hear or see dripping water coming from any of your faucets or pipes. The sound of a “drip drip drip” from a faucet or showerhead can not only be aggravating, but it can also cost you. Some estimates average that a drip every two seconds can add $60 a month to your water bill. Faucet leaks can often be handled by “handy” homeowners with a quick fix as easy as tightening a nut or applying some plumber’s tape. But if a leak persists, the issue may be more serious. A cracked pipe or building pressure may be a contributing factor and can only properly be addressed by a licensed plumber. Let the professional handle this plumbing repair while you tackle other items on your “to-do list.” Most plumbers charge by the hour so, unlike the possible expense of a persistent drip, a short service call won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
   
   
5. You have drains that keep clogging or toilets that always seem to overflow. We’ve all had to face down an overflowing toilet armed with a reliable plunger in one hand. But if you’re confronting messy overflow consistently then there’s likely a much bigger issue under the surface. The same goes for stubborn drains that always seem to be clogged!  If you have attempted a DIY fix and feel like you’re living in plumbing “Groundhog Day” then it’s time to get some extra help. Did you know excess water in pipes is typically released to toilets because it’s the lowest point in the drainage system?  So, your clog might be somewhere else in the plumbing entirely!  As for clogged drains?  Even though they are one of the most common issues faced by homeowners, a little elbow grease might not be enough. In that case, plumbers can use cameras to look deeper into the pipes to find persistent threats: everything from hair to grease build-up or even issues in the city’s aged pipes and problems with your septic tank.
   
   
6. You notice a sudden spike in your water bill month over month. Nobody likes a surprise charge, especially when you’re on a tight budget, but a sudden surge in your monthly water bill could indicate that there’s a major leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Don’t let this excess water drain your wallet or worse, cause major damage to your property.

If you notice any of the signs above—or if you ever smell sewage—don’t hesitate. Call in a professional and let them handle all of your plumbing woes. Mr. Holland’s Home Services is always here to help, with 24-hour plumbing services available. Our dedicated team proudly serves Milwaukee and all of Southeastern Wisconsin. With one simple phone call, we will proudly serve you as well!