Plumbing Problems May Affect Your Wellbeing

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

Clogged drains, leaking pipes and other plumbing problems might seem like minor frustrations of home ownership. At the same time, ignoring these problems for too long can be detrimental to your health and well-being. A plumbing professional, JD Conrad, Vice President of Product Operations with Service Experts, a national home services provider, recently discussed some plumbing problems that, if not promptly repaired, may pose a risk to your health.

Leaks in the Walls or in Your Cabinets

Small leaks are a common plumbing concern. You’ll likely first notice a water stain on a wall or feel damp spots at the bottom of a cabinet. These are generally evidence of slow leaks and water building up over time. Many homeowners delay calling a plumber, not recognizing that even the smallest leaks trap moisture and become breeding grounds for mold.

“We start by asking customers how long that stain on the wall has been there, and most will say several weeks or months. Mold grows much more quickly than they might realize,” Conrad said. “In ideal conditions, it starts growing inside 24 hours. The spores develop within about a week and then the growth accelerates. All the while, people may begin coughing, sneezing and feeling unwell, and they don’t know why.”

“Moisture damage inside walls or in the cabinets can also attract unwanted guests, including rats or cockroaches, which spread diseases,” Conrad added.

Clogged Drainage and Sewer Blockages

“Clogged drains and leaks in the sewer lines that go ignored can contribute to the spreading of viruses and bacteria. These conditions can lead to infections including E. coli, hepatitis and salmonella. Drain clogs in your plumbing are usually noticeable and homeowners tend to call a plumber quickly because they may produce a foul odor,” Conrad explained. However, sewer lines outside the home can be easily forgotten about because they’re “out of sight, out of mind,” but trying to ignore it is a potentially dangerous mindset.

“In situations where you might have leaks under the slab, the extent of the problem can eventually surface. You’ll smell a foul stench near the pipes. You will also notice your drainage is slow, even areas outside the home might have some pooling of water in the yard” Conrad said. “These are all clues that it’s time to call a professional.”

Water Main Leaks and Stagnant Water Pools

The water main that leads from the municipal system to your home is the primary source for potable water for bathing, cleaning and more. With enough time, the water line may become damaged. Tree root intrusion is a common culprit. One of the most noticeable signs of a main water line problem is pooling water in the yard. Stagnant water, even from a clean water source, can become a breeding ground for fungi, viruses and bacteria. One especially hazardous health concern associated with stagnant pools of water is Legionnaires’ disease, from Legionella bacteria. It is a severe form of pneumonia that is capable of causing lung inflammation.

Old Lead Service Lines

Many years ago, lead service lines were the most common piping material used in home construction. While using lead for piping stopped in 1986, there are potentially six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still functioning. The slow accumulation of 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 older lines to gradually deteriorate. Homeowners first notice when they see a leak in a wall. Other times, a pipe could burst open, which will result in a plumbing disaster. Either way, a home with LSLs needs an upgrade to the plumbing system.

“If you know your home has lead pipes, you should consider planning a strategy for having them replaced,” Conrad said.

The True Value of Working with a Reputable Plumbing Technician

Unlike your heating and cooling, which homeowners are recommended to have inspected biannually, checking the plumbing is often a lower priority. However, a periodic schedule for inspections will enable us to find leaks and clogs earlier, potentially saving you money on larger plumbing bills in the future. The next time you think your plumbing system needs attention, it is best to schedule an appointment with a reputable plumber right away.

“It’s a good idea to have your system inspected biannually,” Conrad said. “You will also limit your risk by fixing faucet and showerhead drips quickly, adding more insulation to vulnerable pipes, and using caution about what goes down the drains. And it’s also important to keep an eye on the water pressure and your monthly bill. A drop in pressure or a water bill spike 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.