Plumbing Problems Can Impact Health, Home Comfort

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

Drain clogs, broken pipes and other plumbing problems can seem like minor hassles of owning a home. That being said, leaving plumbing problems unaddressed for too long can be hazardous to your health. An expert plumber, JD Conrad, Vice President of Product Operations with Service Experts, a national home services provider, explains how some plumbing problems that, if not promptly repaired, could pose health risks.

Leaking Inside Walls or in Your Cabinets

Minor leaks are a typical plumbing headache. You might first notice a water stain on a wall or see moisture at the bottom of a cabinet. These are generally signs of slow leaks and water building up over time. Many people hope to put off calling a plumber, not realizing that even minor leaks trap moisture and become breeding grounds for mold.

“We start by asking customers how long since they noticed the staining, and most will say several weeks or months. Mold grows faster than many of us realize,” Conrad said. “Under the right conditions, it could start reproducing inside 24 hours. The spores disperse within about a week and then the growth accelerates. While this happens, people may begin coughing, sneezing and feeling sick, and they don’t know why.”

“Moisture trapped in walls or in the cabinets can also be a magnet for unwanted guests, such as rodents or cockroaches, which may be carrying diseases,” Conrad added.

Clogged Drains and Sewer Blockages

“Clogged drains and leaky sewer lines that go ignored can promote the growth of viruses and bacteria. If it gets bad enough it can even cause infections such as E. coli, hepatitis and salmonella. Drain clogs inside the home are usually easy to spot and homeowners are more likely to address them quickly because they can produce a bad smell,” Conrad explained. That being said, 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 way of thinking.

“In situations where you might have leaks under the foundation, the extent of the problem can eventually surface. You’ll smell sewage outside. You may also find your drains are clearing a little slow, even areas around the exterior of the home might have some pooling of water where the sewer is” Conrad said. “These are all signs that it’s best to call an Expert.”

A Leak in the Water Main and Standing Water

Your main water line that leads from the meter to your home is the primary source for potable water for everyday use. After enough time, your water main could become seriously worn down. Tree roots are a common culprit. One of the most telltale signs of a main water line problem is standing water in the yard. Any standing water, even from a clean water source, can support the growth of fungi, viruses and bacteria. A dangerous health concern connected to stagnant water is Legionnaires’ disease, from Legionella bacteria. It leads to severe pneumonia that causes lung inflammation.

Old Lead Service Lines

Many years ago, lead pipes were the most common piping material used for home plumbing. While this practice was banned in 1986, there are likely six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still being used. The slow accumulation of lead in a person’s bloodstream could lead to lead poisoning, which may be fatal or significantly impact physical and mental development in children.

It’s not uncommon for this kind of plumbing to gradually wear out. Homeowners first notice when they see a leak in a wall. With more serious damage, a pipe could burst open, resulting in a plumbing emergency. Regardless, a home with LSLs needs an upgrade to the plumbing system.

“If you know your home has lead plumbing, it’s best to start planning how and when you’ll get them replaced,” Conrad said.

The Importance of Working with a Certified Plumbing Professional

Unlike HVAC systems, which homeowners are encouraged to have inspected on a regular basis, plumbing system maintenance is not always treated with the same urgency. However, staying on top of routine inspections could help detect leaks and clogs sooner, potentially saving you money on larger plumbing bills in the future. If you suspect the plumbing needs attention, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a local plumber when you can.

“It’s best to have a plumber inspect the pipes on a regular basis,” Conrad said. “You should also do your best at fixing faucet and showerhead drips quickly, wrapping exposed pipes in insulation, and using caution about what goes down the drains. And don’t forget to monitor the water pressure and any changes to the water bill. A pressure drop or spike in your total costs can be a sign of 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.