Common Plumbing Issues in Apartment Buildings and When to Call a Plumber | Knoxville, TN
Thursday, October 10th, 2019
Photo By Artazum at Shutterstock
An average family of four uses 400 gallons of water every day. Now multiply this volume of water by the number of units in an apartment. This will give you a fair idea of the magnitude of plumbing problems which can arise in a building.
The pipes, fixtures, and fittings have to hold up to the heavy use of water in an apartment building. The fluctuating water pressure also affects the plumbing fixtures negatively. Therefore there is a wide range of plumbing problems which can arise in an apartment building. The complicated plumbing structure in an apartment building makes the job of plumbers in the Knoxville, TN area exceptionally difficult. However, a trained professional can help resolve all sorts of plumbing problems.
When a plumbing issue arises in one apartment, it usually affects the neighboring units. Therefore, instead of trying DIY techniques, it is always safer to rely on a professional plumber. Knowledge of some of the most common plumbing issues will help you be better prepared to identify the need of a professional. Some of the most common plumbing issues which can arise in an apartment building include the following.
Clogged Toilets
The drainage system in an apartment building has to work really hard. It is designed to handle a specific type of waste which can dissolve in water. Often times, people throw objects in the toilets which are not water soluble. Paper, debris, toys, and other hard objects when thrown in the toilet are likely to clog it. This problem can arise anywhere, but it is a serious concern in apartments. This is because a clogged toilet in one unit can affect the drainage system of the entire building.
Clogged toilets are not only a plumbing concern but can also pose a serious health threat. The foul smell and stagnant waste can be the breeding ground for many microorganisms.
Solution
This dreaded problem of clogged toilets is an emergency plumbing situation. In that case, you can’t sit back and wait. Instead, try using some basic DIY techniques like a plunger with a bell flange. Seal it around the bottom of the bowl and work firmly. Then flush several times to clear the toilet.
In case of a major clog, a plunger won’t help. So, without wasting any time, immediately call a professional. Trained plumbers know how to address this dirty problem without damaging your plumbing fixtures.
Clogged Drains
Another most common plumbing problem experienced by almost all households is clogged drains. But the problem is multiplied in case of a residential apartment. When a drain gets clogged, and if the residual backup is large, this can result in the clogging of multiple sinks. In the lower units of the building, this problem can even lead to flooding.
Clogged drains are a common, but a serious, plumbing concern which needs to be addressed. Otherwise stagnant water in the sink can make the use of sink impossible.
Solution
Many people try DIY techniques to solve this common problem. Some people rely on chemical drain cleaners which can dissolve the clog. Others use homemade concoctions like baking soda and vinegar. However, all these techniques have a short lived effect on clogged drains. If you need to resolve this problem permanently, seek assistance from a plumber. They have the right equipment and training to identify the size and location of the clog. Therefore, a professional can help you identify the right type of cleaning for your drains.
Frozen Pipes
When the weather changes, it can affect the health of your plumbing fixtures. This is because the water which runs through your plumbing fixtures may freeze during winters. This causes internal pressure on the pipes. As a result, the pipes can be cracked or may even burst. This is a common plumbing problem experienced by people living in the apartments in the Knoxville, TN area. In case the pipe burst, immediately call in a professional.
Solution
A lot of people try using DIY techniques to solve the issue of frozen pipes. They often rely on the use of a hair dryer to thaw the pipes. Rags or towels soaked in warm water can also help in thawing the frozen water. This method requires repeatedly changing warm towels every half an hour so that the pipes get enough heat. However, these methods are only effective if the pipes are in the right state. Apart from limited effectiveness, thawing frozen pipes by yourself is a big hassle.
If you already notice some cracks in the pipes or if the pipes burst, you immediately need assistance from a plumber. They will guide you whether you need a pipe repair or replacement. In fact, it is ideal to call in a plumber before the winters in the Knoxville, TN area begin. He will guide you about the right type of insulation for your pipes which can save you from a lot of hassle during winters.
If you are looking for a professional plumber in the Knoxville, TN area to solve your plumbing problems, contact My Professional Plumber. Whether you live in an apartment or a single unit home, our team of professionals is prepared to solve all your plumbing concerns. We are available 24/7 and on weekends without any additional charge. To know more about our services, visit our website or call now at 865-622-4101.