Plumbing Problems Might Impact Health, Home Comfort

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Drain clogs, leaking pipes and other plumbing problems may seem like minor annoyances of owning a home. However, putting off repairs for too long can be harmful to your health. A plumbing professional, JD Conrad, Vice President of Product Operations with Service Experts, a national home services provider, shared details about some plumbing problems that, if not properly repaired, can threaten good health.

Leaks in the Walls or Inside Kitchen, Bathroom Cabinets

Tiny leaks are a typical plumbing headache. You’ll likely first notice a water stain on a wall or see damp spots at the base of a cabinet. Both are usually evidence of slow leaks and water building up over time. Many people hope to put off calling a plumber, not recognizing that even minor leaks trap moisture and turn into breeding grounds for mold.

“We often ask customers how long that stain on the wall has been there, and most will say a few weeks or months. Mold grows much more quickly than many of us realize,” Conrad said. “Once mold has the right conditions, it starts growing within 24 hours. The spores develop within about a week and then the growth accelerates. All the while, people may begin coughing, sneezing and feeling sick, and they don’t know why.”

“Moisture damage inside walls or under cabinets can also draw in unwanted guests, including rats or cockroaches, which may be carrying diseases,” Conrad added.

Clogged Drainage and Sewer Intrusions

“Clogged drains and a leak in your sewer lines that go unrepaired can encourage the growth of viruses and bacteria. These conditions can lead to infections such as E. coli, hepatitis and salmonella. Drain clogs in your plumbing are usually easy to spot and homeowners are more likely to call a plumber quickly because such clogs may produce a foul odor,” Conrad explained. That being said, sewer lines several feet underground can be easily forgotten since they’re “out of sight, out of mind,” but that’s a potentially dangerous way of thinking.

“If you might have leaks under the foundation, the extent of the problem can gradually surface. Homeowners may smell an unpleasant odor outside. You should then see that your drains are a little slow, even areas outside the home might have some pooling of water close to the sewer lines” Conrad said. “These are all red flags that it’s time to call a professional.”

Main Water Line Leaks and Standing Water

The water main that leads from the street to your home is the primary source for potable water for everyday use. With enough time, your water main could become seriously worn down. Tree root intrusion is a common culprit. One of the most telltale signs of water line damage is pooling water in the yard. Any standing water, even from a clean water source, can support the growth of fungi, viruses and bacteria. One especially hazardous health concern connected to stagnant water is Legionnaires’ disease, caused by Legionella bacteria. It is a severe form of pneumonia that is capable of causing lung inflammation.

Old Lead Pipes

Many years ago, lead service lines were commonly used in home construction. While this practice was banned in 1986, there are an estimated six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still in use today. Too much lead in a person’s bloodstream can cause lead poisoning, which may be fatal or hinder growth and cognitive function in children.

It’s not uncommon for these pipes to gradually deteriorate. Homeowners will often see a leak in a wall. With more serious damage, a pipe could burst open, which will result in a plumbing emergency. Either way, a home with LSLs should schedule an upgrade to the plumbing system.

“If you discover that your home has lead plumbing, it’s best to start planning the process of having them replaced,” Conrad said.

The Importance of Working with a Reputable Plumbing Technician

Unlike HVAC products, which homeowners should have inspected twice a year, maintenance for the plumbing is not always treated with the same urgency. However, staying on top of routine inspections can find these leaks and clogs earlier, potentially saving you from larger plumbing bills in the future. The next time you think the plumbing needs attention, you should try and schedule an appointment with a local plumbing technician right away.

“It’s ideal to have your system inspected on a regular basis,” Conrad said. “You can also be proactive by fixing faucet and showerhead leaks quickly, insulating exposed pipes, and being more restrictive about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain. And remember to watch the water pressure and water bill. A pressure drop or spike in your total costs often indicates a plumbing problem.”

Stay ahead of major repairs and keep your home safe and healthy by learning more about the Service Experts’ Plumbing Services division.