Plumbing problems can occur in just about any area in your home, but your bathroom is a prime location, thanks to multiple plumbing elements in the room. Sinks, toilets, showers, bathtubs, and more can all encounter plumbing issues over the years. Here’s a look at some of the most common and what you can do to prevent them.
Clogged Shower or Bathtub Drain
You lose hair from your head on a daily basis. Though it is not enough for you to notice on your head, it is more than enough to clog a shower or bathtub drain over time, especially when you consider that much of that hair loss occurs in the shower. As you lather up, you put added pressure on your hair, which can cause strands to break off or fall out. As those bits of hair come together in the drain, they can form larger clumps, potentially blocking the pipe.
This is one of the most common bathroom plumbing problems, but fortunately, it is also one of the easiest to prevent. For just a few dollars, you can buy a drain cover at just about any hardware store. This simple device will trap any hair and other debris to prevent it from going down your drain while still allowing water to flow through. Don’t forget to clean it out periodically!
Low Shower Water Pressure
In order to get your hair and body as clean as possible, you need to have a decent amount of water pressure in your shower. However, minerals and other compounds in water can build up in your pipes and shower head over the years, making it more difficult for the water to flow through smoothly. If the buildup gets extensive enough, you’ll begin to notice a significant drop in your shower water pressure.
Here in Phoenix, our water is relatively hard, meaning that it contains calcium and other minerals that can solidify inside your pipes and showerheads. Hard water is often the culprit with recurring plumbing problems. The best way to stop this from happening is to install a water softener in your home. If you’re not ready to install a softener, your next best option is to get rid of the buildup. You can find chemical solutions to accomplish this job, or you can mix vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice for a similar effect. This should get things flowing once again.
Backed-Up Toilet
While it is possible for large amounts of human waste to clog a toilet, wipes and other foreign objects are more likely to be the culprits. Many flushable wipes are not as safe for your toilet as they purport to be, and other items, like feminine products, can also create blockages. Ignoring the clog will likely only make it worse, so it is best to address this problem as quickly as possible.
To keep your toilet flushing smoothly, it is best to avoid putting anything down the toilet other than toilet paper and your own waste. Be sure to educate your kids, if you have any, about proper toilet safety. It is definitely not a place for toys. For small blockages, you may be able to loosen up the clog with a plunger, though you may need to call in a plumber for more severe clogs.
Forrest Anderson Is Here to Help with Your Plumbing Problems
Whenever you run into trouble with your plumbing, you can count on the experts here at Forrest Anderson. We can handle all types of plumbing problems, and we work with customers throughout the Greater Phoenix area. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced plumbers. We’ll identify the problem and fix everything for you right away so you can get back to your day.