How Plumbing Problems May Affect Your Wellbeing

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

Clogged drains, broken pipes and other plumbing problems may seem like minor annoyances of owning a home. That being said, ignoring these problems for too long can be harmful 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 promptly fixed, may pose a risk to your health.

Leaking in the Walls or Inside Kitchen, Bathroom Cabinets

Tiny leaks are a frequent homeowner concern. You’ll likely first notice a water stain on a section of the wall with nearby plumbing or feel moisture at the base of a cabinet. Both of these are often evidence of slow leaks and water pooling over time. Many people hope to put off calling a plumber, not understanding that even the smallest leaks trap moisture and create breeding grounds for mold.

“We start by asking customers how long since they noticed the staining, and most will say a few weeks or months. Mold grows faster than they might realize,” Conrad said. “Once mold has the right conditions, it could start reproducing inside 24 hours. The spores develop within about a week and then the growth takes off. All the while, 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 pests, like mice or cockroaches, which can carry diseases,” Conrad added.

Clogged Drains and Sewer Blockages

“Clogged drains and a leak in your sewer lines that go ignored can encourage 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 tend to address them quickly because drain clogs can produce a foul odor,” Conrad explained. However, sewer lines several feet underground can be easily ignored because they’re “out of sight, out of mind,” but trying to ignore it is a potentially dangerous mindset.

“Whenever you might have leaks under the foundation, the extent of the problem can slowly surface. Homeowners may smell sewage near the pipes. You will also notice your drains are clearing a little slow, even areas outside the home might have some pooling of water where the sewer is” Conrad said. “These are all clues that it’s time you called a professional plumber.”

Water Main Leaks and Standing Water

The water main leading from the meter to your home is the primary source for clean water for daily use. After enough time, the water line may become seriously worn down. Tree roots are a common culprit. One of the most noticeable signs of a main water line problem is pools of stagnant water in the yard. Stagnant water, even from a clean water supply line, can support the growth of fungi, viruses and bacteria. A serious health concern associated with standing water is Legionnaires’ disease, caused by Legionella bacteria. It is a severe form of pneumonia that also causes lung inflammation.

Old Lead Service Lines

Decades ago, lead service lines were commonly used for home plumbing. While lead pipes were discontinued in 1986, there are likely six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still operational. The slow accumulation of lead in a person’s bloodstream could lead to lead poisoning, which may be fatal or hinder physical and mental development in children.

It’s not unusual for these pipes to eventually deteriorate. Homeowners will often see a leak in a wall. With more serious damage, a pipe may completely rupture, resulting in a plumbing emergency. Regardless, a home with LSLs requires replacement.

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

The Importance of Working with a Reputable Plumbing Technician

Unlike HVAC products, which homeowners are encouraged to have inspected on a regular basis, plumbing system maintenance is often a lower priority. However, a periodic schedule for inspections could help detect leaks and clogs sooner, potentially saving you from larger plumbing bills in the future. If you suspect your plumbing system needs attention, it is best to schedule an appointment with a reputable plumbing professional as soon as possible.

“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 leaks quickly, adding more insulation to vulnerable pipes, and using caution about what should and shouldn’t go down the drain. And remember to keep an eye on the water pressure and your monthly 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.