How Plumbing Problems May Affect Your Wellbeing

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

A clogged-up drain, leaky pipes and other plumbing problems might seem like minor frustrations of home ownership. At the same time, leaving plumbing problems unaddressed for too long can be dangerous to your health. An expert plumber, JD Conrad, Vice President of Product Operations with Service Experts, a national home services provider, recently discussed some plumbing problems that, if not properly taken care of, may pose a risk to your health.

Leaking Behind Walls or Inside Cabinets

Tiny leaks are a frequent plumbing worry. You might first find a water stain on part of the wall or see moisture inside a cabinet. Both of these are generally evidence of slow leaks and water pooling over time. Many people hope to put off calling a plumber, not realizing that even the smallest leaks trap moisture and create breeding grounds for mold.

“We often ask customers how long it’s been since the stain appeared, and many tell us a few weeks or months. Mold grows much more quickly than they might realize,” Conrad said. “In ideal conditions, it could start reproducing within 24 hours. The spores establish themselves within about a week and then the growth takes off. As the mold spreads, people are experiencing coughing, sneezing and feeling unwell, and they don’t know why.”

“Moisture trapped in walls or beneath your cabinets can also be a magnet for unwanted guests, like mice or cockroaches, which may be carrying diseases,” Conrad added.

Clogged Drains and Sewer Blockages

“Clogged drains and leaks in the sewer lines that go unresolved can encourage the spread of viruses and bacteria. If it gets bad enough it can even cause infections such as E. coli, hepatitis and salmonella. Drain clogs in your plumbing are usually noticed more quickly and homeowners tend to call a plumber quickly because such clogs may produce a bad smell,” Conrad explained. That being said, sewer lines outside the home can be easily ignored because they’re “out of sight, out of mind,” but this could be a potentially dangerous approach.

“Whenever you might have leaks under the foundation, the problem may gradually surface. Homeowners may smell sewage near the pipes. You will also notice your drains are clearing a little slow, even areas away from 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 leading from the meter to your home is the primary source for safe water for everyday use. With enough time, your water main could become seriously worn down. Tree roots are a common culprit. One of the most evident signs of damage to your water main is pooling water in the yard. Any standing water, even from a clean water supply line, can encourage fungi, viruses and bacteria. One especially hazardous health concern connected to stagnant pools of water is Legionnaires’ disease, from Legionella bacteria. It can lead to severe cases of pneumonia that is capable of causing lung inflammation.

Old Lead Service Lines

Decades ago, lead plumbing was the most common choice used for home plumbing. While using lead for piping stopped in 1986, there are potentially six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still in use today. Lead seeping into a person’s bloodstream could lead to lead poisoning, which may be fatal or hinder physical and mental development in children.

It’s not uncommon for these older lines to eventually wear out. Homeowners will often 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 should schedule re-piping.

“If you’re aware your home still has lead plumbing, you should consider planning the process of having them replaced,” Conrad said.

Why It’s Important to Work with a Reputable Plumber

Unlike your heating and cooling, which homeowners are recommended to have inspected twice a year, 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, hopefully 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 trusted plumber right away.

“It’s best to have your system inspected biannually,” Conrad said. “You can also be proactive by fixing faucet and showerhead leaks quickly, insulating exposed pipes, and using caution about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain. And don’t forget to monitor the water pressure and water bill. A drop in pressure or a water bill spike 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.