Modern plumbing is a necessity that few would want to live without. Plumbing brings in fresh and clean water to your St. Cloud home and carries away the waste. The plumbing system works around the clock behind the scenes. Yet, does your plumbing receive the periodic attention it needs? Routine plumbing maintenance by your plumbing pro can spot signs of premature failure before major repairs are needed. But, it’s also helpful to know how to recognize telltale signs of plumbing problems yourself before expensive damage occurs. Here’s what to know about spotting plumbing problems in your home.

AGE AND MATERIALS OF PIPES

Plumbing pipes have been manufactured of different materials over the decades. The different types of pipe materials have different lifespans. For example, drain-waste vent (DWV) pipes in very old homes are made of cast iron. While extremely durable, cast iron pipes will rust out. Your plumbing pro can locate sections of aged-out pipe and replace the pipe with ABS or PVC. Galvanized steel is another pipe material no longer used due to its tendency for corroding inside out. If you have this pipe material in your home, you’d be wise to consider repiping.

DISCOLORED WATER

Is the water that comes out of your St. Cloud home’s pipes crystal clear? It should be! Discolored water from your faucets and fixtures is a sure sign of trouble. As pipes age, water can leech sediment, minerals, and rust from the pipes. Yellow and brown water typically indicate rust in the pipes. Cloudy water is an indicator of air in the pipes. Green tinted water is a telltale sign of corrosion in copper pipes.

Scaling and mineral stains can be a problem, too. This is caused by hard water which can be remedied with a water softener. Now, if water discoloration is caused by municipal pipes, which your plumbing pro can tell you, a whole-house water filtration system is your best protection.

SOGGY PATCHES IN THE YARD

A leaky sewer line is a major plumbing problem that you should take care of right away. Invasive tree roots are a common cause of sewer line problems, in addition to a sewer pipe line that has corroded due to aging. One of the ways to spot a sewer line problem is by soggy spots in your yard. Also, if you have a patch of grass that is much greener than surrounding grass, you could have a sewer line problem.

PEELING & BUBBLING INTERIOR PAINT OR WALLPAPER

Take a look at the paint or other wall coverings in your entire home on the walls and ceiling. Are there any peeling, bubbling, mold, stains, or discoloration in the paint or wallpaper? These are almost always signs of water problems stemming from your plumbing system or perhaps a leak in your roof. Your St. Cloud Roto-Rooter plumbing pro can identify the problem for you.

RISING WATER BILLS

Have your water bills been creeping up without good reason? Rising water bills is another telltale sign you have a plumbing problem somewhere in your home. Even small leaks can cost you in rising bills and damage to your home, in addition to wasting a precious natural resource.

If you have noticed any of these telltale signs of plumbing problems, or if you haven’t had plumbing maintenance lately, call the professionals at MN Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. We’re available at your convenience and for emergency service 24/7. When you need a plumber, call on us (320) 207-1079!