5 Plumbing Problems Costing You Money

An ostrich hiding its head in the sand to avoid danger is actually a myth. But it is no myth many Michigan homeowners will ignore plumbing problems, hoping they will just go away. 

Not As Simple As Drip, Drip Go Away

In actuality, this way of thinking can be a costly mistake, as problems rarely disappear on their own. They typically evolve into a larger and more expensive plumbing dilemma. Our Team Bob’s Heating, Cooling, Plumbing plumbers recommend addressing concerns when you initially notice them to help you save money in the long run.

These Five Common Plumbing Problems Can Cost You Money

Here are what our pros consider to be the top most commonly seen plumbing issues:

1. Leaky faucet

Literally akin to throwing money down the drain, having a leaky faucet is probably the most common problem our plumbers see on a daily basis. The amount of wasted water could be costing you 10 percent more on your water bill. 

Don’t believe it? According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a leaky faucet can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water each year. This equates to about 270 loads of wash. The good news is that frequently, a leaky faucet is a simple repair.

2. Running toilet

A running toilet can also be wasting thousands of gallons of water a year, contributing to a higher water bill. This, too, can be a straightforward fix, depending on why the toilet is continually running. 

Sometimes the repair is as simple as unkinking the flapper chain in the tank or straightening the flapper sitting askew on the drain. Both of these problems are allowing water to continually leak so the tank never refills. Replacing the flapper valve, the float, or fill tube might be all it takes.

3. Wrong-sized sump pump

Ensuring your sump pump is the correct size for your home is more important than you may think. If your pump is too small, it may become overwhelmed and continually activate to keep up with the flow of water in your Traverse City home. This can lead to higher energy bills or pump burnout. 

Or the pump may not be able to keep up at all, and you may end up with a flooded basement. These problems are prevented and/or remedied with the correct-sized sump pump. Call one of our Team Bob’s Heating, Cooling, Plumbing highly trained and experienced plumbers for an assessment if you suspect your pump may be the incorrect size for your home.

4. Water heater making noises

If your water heater starts making loud banging noises, do not think the sounds will go away. Typically the cause is accumulated sediment in the bottom of the tank. When you turn on your hot water, the sediment moves around, causing air bubbles to rise. Between the bubbles and sediment, you may get banging noises. 

Ignoring this issue costs you money, because it decreases the life of your tank. So be sure to call one of our expert plumbers as soon as the noises begin. And keep in mind it might be wise to get your tank annually drained and flushed to avoid this in the first place.

5. Dripping sounds in walls or ceiling

Hearing dripping sounds in your Traverse City home’s walls or ceiling can indicate a water leak in the hidden plumbing. This can definitely lead to costly repairs––rotted wood, plaster, or drywall and mold growth. You most likely know what small amounts of water can do to rocks, wearing them away over time. Suffice it to say, the materials in your home are much easier to wear away and damage. 

If you hear dripping sounds, call one of our plumbers to investigate immediately. Ignoring drips will only cost you more money as time goes on. Better to know sooner than later.

Team Bob’s Heating, Cooling, Plumbing Is Here for All Your Plumbing Needs

These are a handful of the more common plumbing problems our Team Bob’s Heating, Cooling, Plumbing plumbers handle on a regular basis in Traverse City, Michigan, area homes. If you notice any of these plumbing issues in your home, save yourself money in the long run by calling us at 231-941-4064 or request service online. We are here to help.