Plumbing Problems Can Affect Your Wellbeing

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

Clogged drains, broken pipes and other plumbing problems might seem like minor hassles of owning a home. However, ignoring these problems for too long can be harmful to your health and well-being. A licensed plumber, JD Conrad, Vice President of Product Operations with Service Experts, a national home services provider, explains how some plumbing problems that, if not properly taken care of, may pose a risk to your health.

Leaking Behind Walls or Inside Cabinets

Minor leaks are a typical homeowner concern. You might first notice a water stain on part of the wall or feel damp spots at the base of a cabinet. These are usually evidence of slow leaks and water building up over time. Many homeowners delay calling a plumber, not understanding that even the smallest leaks trap moisture and become breeding grounds for mold.

“We often ask customers how long since they noticed the staining, and many tell us several weeks or months. Mold grows much more quickly than they might realize,” Conrad said. “Under the right conditions, it starts growing within 24 hours. The spores establish themselves within about a week and then the growth explodes. While this happens, people are experiencing coughing, sneezing and feeling sick, and they don’t know why.”

“Moisture leaking into walls or beneath your cabinets can also be a magnet for unwanted guests, including rats or cockroaches, which can carry diseases,” Conrad added.

Clogged Drainage and Sewer Intrusions

“Clogged drains and a leak in your sewer lines that go unrepaired can contribute to the spread of viruses and bacteria. These conditions can lead to infections such as E. coli, hepatitis and salmonella. Clogged drains in your plumbing are usually noticed more quickly and homeowners tend to call a plumber quickly because they may produce a foul odor,” Conrad explained. However, sewer lines several feet underground can be easily forgotten since they’re “out of sight, out of mind,” but trying to ignore it is a potentially dangerous approach.

“Whenever you might have leaks under the slab, the extent of the problem can slowly surface. You will probably smell sewage outside. You should then see that your drainage is slow, even areas away from the home might have some pooling of water where the sewer is” Conrad said. “These are all red flags that it’s time to call a professional.”

Main Water Line Leaks and Stagnant Water Pools

Your main water line that leads from the municipal system to your home is the primary source for potable water for bathing, cleaning and more. With enough time, your water main could become seriously worn down. Tree roots are a common culprit. One of the most telltale signs of water line damage is pools of stagnant water in the yard. Standing pools of water, even from a clean water supply line, can spread fungi, viruses and bacteria. One especially hazardous health concern associated with stagnant pools of water is Legionnaires’ disease, caused by Legionella bacteria. It leads to severe pneumonia that is capable of causing lung inflammation.

Old Lead Plumbing

Many years ago, lead plumbing was the most common choice used for home plumbing. While using lead for piping stopped in 1986, there are approximately six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still functioning. Too much lead in a person’s bloodstream eventually causes lead poisoning, which may be fatal or severely affect physical and mental development in children.

It’s not uncommon for these pipes to gradually fail. Homeowners may see a leak in a wall. In some cases, a pipe may completely rupture, resulting in a major plumbing issue. Regardless, a home with LSLs needs replacement.

“If you’re aware your home has lead service lines, it’s best to start planning the process of having them replaced,” Conrad said.

The Importance of Working with a Reputable Plumber

Unlike your heating and cooling, which homeowners are recommended to have inspected biannually, checking the plumbing is not as common. However, a periodic schedule for inspections can find these leaks and clogs earlier, potentially saving you from pricey plumbing bills in the future. If you suspect the plumbing needs attention, it is best to schedule an appointment with a local plumbing technician when you can.

“It’s best to have a plumber inspect the pipes on a regular basis,” Conrad said. “You will also limit your risk by fixing faucet and showerhead drips quickly, wrapping exposed pipes in insulation, and using caution about what goes down the drains. And remember to monitor your water pressure and your monthly bill. A pressure drop or a water bill spike usually signals 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.