It’s important to notice early warning signs that something is wrong with your plumbing. Timely repairs are important when water is involved, so familiarize yourself with these signs of plumbing problems in the home.

1. Gurgling or Rattling Pipes Can Indicate Plumbing Problems

One sign of plumbing problems is a strange sound when you turn on the water. Do you hear rattling or gurgling when you use your faucet?

Strange sounds coming from the plumbing often mean that air is in the pipes, especially when they’re accompanied by a sputtering faucet. Air bubbles get in your pipes when a seal is damaged. This problem should be addressed right away.

2. Bad Smells Coming From Drains

The plumbing in your home does a lot of dirty work; however, it shouldn’t smell bad. Unpleasant smells coming from the drains indicate plumbing problems. Since plumbing is meant to carry wastewater away from your home, bad smells mean that something is preventing water from flowing as it should. An unpleasant, egg-like smell usually means that the roof vent stack is malfunctioning, letting sewer gas into your home.

3. Plumbing Problems Appear as Slow Drains and Standing Water

One of the most frustrating plumbing problems is when your sinks or tubs drain slowly. This problem indicates that your plumbing needs attention.

If you’re only having issues with one drain, use a drain snake to make sure it isn’t clogged with hair or soap buildup. If this doesn’t help, or if other drains in the home are draining slowly, then it’s likely a sign of a larger problem that needs to be checked out by a plumber.

4. Stains on Walls Indicate Plumbing Problems

Bubbling paint or wallpaper and dark stains on walls are clear signs of water damage. If you notice these signs in your home, and they’re not caused by a roof leak, then they’re probably coming from a pipe leaking behind the wall.

If underlying plumbing problems are causing visible water stains and moisture damage to your home, contact a professional plumber immediately.

5. Low Water Pressure

Another hint that you might have some issues with your plumbing is unusually low water pressure. If you’re experiencing weak water pressure throughout the home, and the water pressure regulator is not turned down low, then you might have a pipe leak. Low water pressure can also indicate a blockage in the pipe that is affecting the water flow.

Of all the issues that you might encounter in your home, plumbing problems are some of the most inconvenient. Left untreated, plumbing issues can lead to water damage and costly repairs. Take steps to prevent leaks. Pay attention to red flags such as strange noises and smells, poor water pressure and drainage, and visible water stains.

AWP Home Inspections provides home inspection services in West Central and Central Indiana. Contact us to schedule an appointment.