Top 5 Plumbing Problems Every Calgary Homeowner Should Know
Living in Calgary comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to plumbing. The cold winter weather and temperature fluctuations can destroy your plumbing system if you’re not prepared.
To help you stay ahead of the game we’ve put together the top 5 most common plumbing problems every Calgary homeowner should know about and how to prevent them. And if you’re ever unsure, call a professional plumber Calgary homeowners trust and save yourself from costly repairs.
1. Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and most costly plumbing problems in Calgary’s cold winters. When water in your pipes freezes it expands and puts pressure on the pipes which can cause cracks or even bursts.
How to Prevent It:
- Insulate your pipes especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages or crawl spaces.
- Run a slow trickle of water through taps during extreme cold weather to prevent freezing.
- Seal any drafts near exposed pipes to keep the cold air out.
If your pipes do freeze call a professional plumber immediately to prevent a burst.
2. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a minor problem that can turn into bigger issues like slow draining water, foul odors or even flooding. Hair, grease, soap scum and other debris build up in kitchen and bathroom drains over time.
How to Prevent It:
- Use drain screens to catch hair, food particles and other debris before it enters your pipes.
- Don’t pour grease or oils down the drain as they can solidify and cause blockages.
- Flush drains with hot water and baking soda or vinegar regularly to break down buildup.
If a drain is completely clogged a plumber will have the tools to clear it safely without damaging your pipes.
3. Water Heater Problems
Your water heater works hard especially during Calgary’s cold months. Common issues are lack of hot water, strange noises and leaks.
How to Prevent It:
- Schedule annual water heater inspections to make sure it’s working properly.
- Flush your water heater regularly to remove sediment that can cause overheating or reduce efficiency.
- Consider upgrading to a tankless water heater which can be more energy efficient and provide hot water on demand.
A water heater that’s malfunctioning may also mean it’s nearing the end of its life so keep an eye on its performance and replace it if necessary.
4. Leaky Faucets and Fixtures
A dripping faucet may seem like a minor problem but it can waste gallons of water over time and increase your utility bills. Leaky fixtures can also mean more serious plumbing issues like worn out seals or corroded pipes.
How to Prevent It:
- Check your faucets and fixtures regularly for any signs of leakage.
- Replace worn out washers, seals and cartridges in your faucets before they deteriorate further.
- Fix any leaks immediately to avoid more costly repairs later on.
If you’re not comfortable fixing a leak yourself call a professional plumber to assess the situation.
5. Sewer Line Blockages
Tree roots, debris and deteriorating pipes can cause sewer line blockages which can cause sewage backups in your home—a plumbing nightmare no homeowner wants to face.
How to Prevent It:
- Don’t plant trees or large shrubs near sewer lines as roots can grow into the pipes.
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet—don’t flush wipes, sanitary products or other items that can cause blockages.
- Schedule regular sewer line inspections to catch issues before they become major problems.
If you experience slow drains or hear gurgling sounds from your plumbing call a professional to check your sewer line.
Bottom Line
Now you know the common plumbing issues in Calgary. Take proactive steps to prevent costly repairs. Maintenance, inspections and timely repairs are the key to a smooth running plumbing system all year round. If in doubt or in a plumbing emergency call a local plumber you trust.
Looking for professional plumbing services in Calgary? Contact our experienced team today for help with any plumbing issue, big or small!
