Homeowners are often faced with unexpected costs. Anything from a flooded basement to a broken appliance can throw off the family budget and cause homeowners to dip into their savings account. One of the largest unexpected costs for your home can come from a water line or sewer line replacement. We put together some warning signs to look for to know if it might be time for a water or sewer line replacement.
1. Low Water Pressure
When you turn on a faucet or run the shower, does the water pressure seem lower than usual? If you notice low water pressure in your home, or if you feel like your water pressure has recently decreased, it could be an indication of a water line issue. Your main water line provides water to your home and if it’s leaking or clogged, it can result in low water pressure.
2. Backed-Up Toilets
Backed-up toilets and showers, especially in the basement or lower floor, can be a sign of a sewer line problem. If your sewer line breaks or clogs, waste and fluid will go back up the path of least resistance; most likely this is a first floor or basement bathroom. While back-ups can happen that are not related to sewer lines, keep this possibility in mind the next time you have bathroom problems.
3. Rusty Tap Water
Rusty tap water can be a signal that your water line pipe has started to corrode. Most older homes have water lines made from galvanized piping. These pipes can corrode and mix with the water, producing rusty tap water. Your water should be clear, so if it’s not, contact a professional to determine the cause.
4. High Water Bills
When water is leaking underground, you most likely won’t always see the signs above ground. However, your water bill might be a telltale sign there’s an issue and can signal that water is escaping from the pipes in your home. If you notice a significant increase in your water bill, it could be a sign that there is a leak in your water line. Furthermore, your high water bill could be a result of your sump pump constantly running to remove the water flowing into your home as a result of a broken water line. If you find yourself with a high water bill, make sure it’s not a water line issue.
5. Wet or Flooded Basement
While there can be many causes for a flooded basement, don’t forget to rule out a water line or sewer line issue. Both can cause flooding, especially in your basement. For example, if your water line has a leak, water can seep through the walls of your basement and cause a flood. Your sewer line can also cause flooding if there’s a blockage in the line or there’s a backflow issue. If you think a water or sewer line issue might be your problem, contact a professional to help fix your flooding problem.
Unsure if You have a Water or Sewer Line Problem?
If you’re not sure if you need a water or sewer line replacement, Constellation Home is here to help. Our certified plumbers can diagnose any issue and check for leaks, clogs, and backups. We provide water and sewer line repairs and line inspections using a camera to view blockages or leaks from inside the pipes. This service is recommended every five years to stop any problems before they start. If you’re interested, contact us today.
