4 Plumbing Issues to Check Before You Buy a House

 Buying a house is an exciting yet stressful time. We’ve heard from many homeowners that it ended up costing them more time and money than originally intended due to existing plumbing issues they weren’t aware of when purchasing the home. To be sure you know exactly what you’re getting into before buying, we recommend always checking for some common plumbing issues before signing any final contracts. Here’s what to look for when checking plumbing in your potential new home: 

Faucets, Sinks and Toilets

Testing the sinks and toilets throughout the house will give you an understanding of the water pressure, and the general health of the plumbing. You should:

• Check underneath all sinks for signs of leaks
• Turn on all faucets and flush all the toilets
• Watch how quickly the water drains down the sinks
• Check around the base of each toilet for signs of leakage or rust

Main Sewer Drain

There are several issues you might encounter with the main sewer drain, like tree roots growing into it, or breakdown due to age. Unfortunately checking the main sewer drain isn’t as simple as flushing a toilet. You’ll need a licensed plumber to conduct an inspection and verify that there aren’t any issues or signs of damage. A damaged sewer drain can be very costly to repair, so it’s critical that you have this checked before buying a house. 

Water Heater

Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, and one you’ll rely on every day. When it comes to the water heater in your potential new home, check for the following:

• Any unusual noises coming from the tank when you switch it on
• Discolored water, or water with particles coming out of the hot water tap
• The age of the hot water heater. If it’s more than 12 years old, chances are it will need replacing soon
• Rust or corrosion on the tank

Water Meter and Supply

Looking at the water meter is a telltale way to check for leaks. Shut off all of the faucets throughout the home and take a look at the water meter. Is it still turning? That means the plumbing system has sprung a leak somewhere. 

If you’d like more information about how to check out any potential plumbing issues before you buy a house, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today and visit our website at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/check-for-these-plumbing-issues/

Signs Your Hot Water Heater Needs to be Repaired or Replaced

 Your hot water heater is an essential appliance in your home, but because it’s out of sight, it’s easy to forget it exists until something goes wrong. Most homeowners are not in the habit of regularly checking on their hot water heater, so when it breaks or malfunctions it can quickly become an urgent situation. Here are three of the most common signs that your hot water heater needs to be repaired or replaced. 

Irregular Water Temperature

You’re enjoying a relaxing, hot shower after a long day, when suddenly the water starts running cold. It’s happened to most of us before and it’s definitely not a pleasant experience. If you notice your water temperature is fluctuating often from hot to warm or cold, there might be an issue with your hot water heater. Mineral deposits build up over time and can cause irregular water temperatures, so the best thing to do is ask a professional to inspect your hot water heater. 

Discoloration of Water

If you’re getting yourself a glass of water from your kitchen sink and notice the water has small dark particles floating in it, or the water is brownish in color, it’s time to have your hot water heater checked. Sediment leaking into your drinking water can be a health hazard if it goes untreated. Your tank will need cleaning as soon as possible if you’re encountering this issue. 

Running Out of Hot Water Too Fast

It’s possible that one of the heating elements in your hot water heater is malfunctioning if your water only stays hot or warm for a short amount of time.  Most new models of hot water heaters are able to provide homes with a steady and lengthy supply of hot water, but it can be a big inconvenience when the heater stops working in your time of need.

If you’d like more information about hot water heater repair, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today and visit our website at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/

Originally published at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/hot-water-heater-repair/