Tag: Low Water Pressure

Warnings that You Need a Pipe Repair

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

As the weather gets warmer, rain in eastern North Carolina will rise. Coming out of the winter season, the temperature elevation combined with this increase in precipitation puts a lot of demand on your pipes. It can bring to light problems that already exist, but it can escalate issues that may be minor. It’s important to diagnose these issues as soon as possible so that immediate action can be taken to save you time, money and headaches. Here are a couple of signs to be on the lookout for this Spring and Summer season.

Low Water Pressure

This warning sign is noticeable in the shower, washing dishes, washings your hands, brushing your teeth, etc. If you notice the water is not coming out of your shower head or faucet as powerful or consistent as it used to, do further inspection – a pipe repair might be in the future for you.

Pipe Leaks

Leaks in pipes can be heard and seen. If there is a dripping sound coming somewhere in your house, this is a clear sign that something needs to be done. Leaky pipes need to be replaced as soon as possible to avoid monetary and time consequences.

Damp Spots in Walls, Floor or Ceiling

When spotted, wet spots in your home are always a sign of a bigger issue. It is highly recommended to get the help of a professional before investing large amounts of money on something that may or may not fix the problem. While most of the time this is a major indicator of a pipe issue, it is best to be sure before going further.

Water Discoloration

If water coming out of your fixtures smells bad, is discolored, or has any unusual properties about it, this is a possible issue. It is best to further investigate before consuming or using any more water in your house.

Inexplicably Rising Water Bills

If your water bills are higher than normal and you are not sure why, your pipes could be behind it all. If you have a leaky pipe or two, water could be wasted daily. By leaking out, you may run more water because of low water pressure. This causes your bills to rise, which will get higher the longer it takes you to discover and fix it.

Weird Noises

It is possible to hear the sound of water running through your pipes in your house. If there is an uncommon noise associated with this, that’s a red flag. This noise could be the result of a blockage, a leak or pipes that are too old and need attention. Be aware of peculiar sounds, especially in the walls of older homes.

Corroded Pipes

Inspecting your pipes up close can also reveal rusty and/or corroded pipes. Even if the pipes that are located outside are rusty, that is an indication that the pipes inside the house are rusty as well. Corroded pipes can cause subsequent problems throughout the house. It can hurt entire plumbing systems, cause foul odors, stain fixtures and produce health problems.

If you need a pipe repair or are unsure, contact Eastern Plumbing today.

Preparing Your Plumbing for Warmer Weather

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

 

Spring is upon us! It’s the time of year that many people associate with fresh starts, new beginnings and rejuvenation. While spring cleaning may be on your mind, you may not have thought about maintaining your plumbing system for the new season. With proper care, you can avoid costly repairs and damage in the future. Follow these tips as you prepare your home for sunny days and warmer weather.

  1. Make sure all faucets are functioning normally. Check both inside and outside water lines. Turn each line on and off, one at a time, and listen for any unusual sounds. Low water pressure can mean you have a leak in your line, in which case you may need to call a professional plumber like Eastern Plumbing.
  2. Inspect exposed pipes. Winter weather may have cracked your pipes, which may lead to house damage. Check each pipe and keep an eye out for any green, moldy, damp or mossy areas. The excessive growth may reveal a leak.
  3. Check your toilet for leaks. For every toilet in the house, add a few drops of food coloring to the water tank. If you notice the food coloring in the toilet bowl after several minutes, you have a leak. To repair the problem, the flapper will need to be replaced. Call Eastern Plumbing for assistance in fixing your toilet.
  4. Don’t forget to check outside. Make sure your downspouts are situated away from your foundation and that your storm drains are clear of debris. Dispose of as much buildup as possible to prevent future clogs and flooding.
  5. Drain your water tank. Flush your heater to remove mineral deposits and sediment buildup. If you moved the temperature gauge earlier in the winter,  bring it back down to 120 degrees to save energy. If you’re using an old heater, consider replacing with a tankless water heater.
  6. Inspect your septic system. If your home uses a septic tank, walk around the area where the tank is stored. Any water puddles or wet spots are suspicious and should be evaluated by a professional plumber like Eastern Plumbing.
  7. Test your sump pump. The sump pump is integral to the protection of your home’s foundation, and an improperly working pump can lead to expensive water damage and repair costs. Locate the pump and pour water into the pit. Watch for the pump to run its full cycle. If it fails to turn on or drain the water, you’ll need to contact a professional plumber.

If you notice anything out of the ordinary or see any red flags listed above, contact Eastern Plumbing for a plumbing inspection. In addition to repairs, we can also help you determine best ways to save money throughout the spring and summer season by installing green technology and water conserving fixtures.

How to Solve Low Water Pressure Problems

Posted on by Eastern Plumbing

Low water pressure is an annoyance for any homeowner. Inadequate water pressure increases the time it takes for simple tasks like showering, washing dishes and watering outdoor plants, and it also increases the amount of water used which means higher water bills. A water pressure reading tells you how forceful your water is in PSI (pounds per square inch). Normal water pressure is generally around 50 PSI. If you find your water pressure isn’t desirable, there are a few steps you can take to fix the problem.

1. Identify Water Leaks.

Check visible water pipes for cracks or leaks. Damaged pipes allow water to seep out, which can negatively impact the water pressure in your home. If you are unable to identify any leaks, turn off the main water valve in your house. Check the water meter reading, wait two hours and read the meter again. If the number on the meter has gone up, it means you have a leak.

2. Check Your Pressure Regulator.

You can find a pressure regulator below the hose connection attached to your house. When a pressure regulator breaks or stops working, you will notice low water pressure coming from every faucet in your house. You’re much better off leaving this kind of plumbing repair to a professional plumber. Trying to fix a broken pressure regulator on your own can cause more damage.

3. Check the Elevation.

The position of your water storage tank can impact water pressure. If your house is situated higher than the tank, water pressure will be difficult to maintain. Whenever possible, make sure your tank is elevated higher than your house to ensure great water pressure.

4. Identify Faulty Valves.

If the main water valve in your house is turned off or closed slightly, it can dramatically impact water pressure. Valves can also unexpectedly slip without you realizing it. If you are experiencing low water pressure, locate your main water valve and make sure it is wide open.

5. Check For Mineral Deposit Buildup.

Overtime, mineral deposits can clog water pipes, block faucets and shower heads, and cause a low water pressure problem. To clean mineral deposit buildup, try using a commercial cleaner or a simple solution of white vinegar and baking soda. Scrub with a toothbrush to remove stubborn deposits. If that doesn’t do the trick, you may need to hire a professional plumber.

Remember, any plumbing task you can’t easily handle on your own requires the help of a qualified plumber. You can turn a simple plumbing problem into a dangerously costly one if you don’t know what you’re doing. Setting the standard in quality service for over 15 years, Eastern Plumbing helps thousands of homeowners in eastern North Carolina with plumbing needs. Our team of professionals consists of some of the most experienced and qualified plumbers working today. We’re available 24/7 for any plumbing emergency.