The kitchen is a heavily used part of any home and as such, it can experience plumbing issues from time to time. If not attended to quickly, these problems can lead to a number of costly and time-consuming fixes.
Some of the most common kitchen plumbing problems include: clogged drains, leaky faucets and broken pipes. Fortunately, these problems are relatively easy to fix if caught early.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common kitchen plumbing problems homeowners face. When a drain becomes clogged, water is not able to flow through it, which can cause significant buildup and lead to even more issues in the future.
Fats, grease and oil that get poured down the drain can stick to the inside lining of pipes, creating a sticky substance that blocks water flow. Food scraps and other non-food items can also clog drains, as can soap scum and hair.
Regular drain cleaning with baking soda and vinegar can help prevent clogs, as can using a power auger to physically remove the blockage. For serious clogs, you may need to call in a professional plumber. In many cases, however, you can use a plunger to dislodge most clogs, particularly those caused by grease. Just be sure to use a drain strainer and be mindful of what goes down your sink! Otherwise, it’s likely that a clog will rear its ugly head at the most inconvenient time.
Leaking Faucets
A leaking sink can be an annoying problem that leads to water damage and higher utility bills. You may also notice wet spots on the ceiling, cabinetry, or drywall. A dripping faucet can cause rust and mineral buildup, as well as water rings on the kitchen countertops.
Screeching sounds coming from your sink are a sign that you need to replace a washer. In addition, a leaky spout can be caused by a worn out O-ring seal or by water sediments that corrode valve seat.
You can fix a leaking faucet by first removing the handle, packing nut, and stem screw. Be sure to plug the drain with a towel or old rag to avoid losing small parts down the pipe. Once you’ve removed the parts, clean them with warm vinegar to remove stubborn mineral deposits. Once the parts are cleaned, put them back together and reassemble your faucet. A new O-ring can be purchased for less than $20 and will fix most leaking faucets.
Bad Smells
A foul smell in your kitchen sink is a sure sign that something’s wrong with your plumbing. The odors may be coming from your drain itself or from a clog. Grease often ends up in the drain and if you’re not careful, it can solidify inside your pipes and cause a major blockage that stinks.
If your sink is draining slower than usual or you hear a deep gurgling sound, it’s time to call a plumber. These are all signs of a food or grease clog.
If the odors are coming from your garbage disposal, it could be because of avocado skins, bones or other items stuck inside of the blades and motor. A plumber can dislodge these items safely and get your disposal back up and running smoothly. You can also call a plumber if you’re experiencing little to no hot water in your home. A faulty gas pilot or broken dip tube can cause the water heater to fail.
Leaking Pipes
Pipes leaking through cracks or ruptures are not only inconvenient, but they can also cause water damage and lead to mold growth in your home. Even small leaks need to be fixed quickly to prevent further damage and save on your utility bills.
Many things can cause leaking pipes, from clogs to degradation and shifts in your home’s foundation. Grease, hair, and other debris can build up and block drains over time. Corrosion on the inside of pipes restricts water movement and can eventually crack or burst. And if your house is older, a professional plumbing review may be in order to ensure that all the piping is safe and working properly.
It’s easy to ignore problems like a leaking sink or clogged drain, but ignoring these issues can result in major issues down the road. If you think you have a problem, make sure to turn off your water main and call a professional plumber. You can go online to websites such as https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-melbourne/ for more plumbing services.
