Older homes have a lot of charm: wood floors, cozy layouts, and character you just don’t find in new builds. But let’s be honest: they also come with their quirks. And plumbing? That’s usually one of the big ones.
At Cardinal Plumbing, Electrical and Septic, we’ve seen it all. From creaky old pipes to outdated fixtures that just can’t keep up, older homes tend to share a few common plumbing issues. The good news is that most of them are fixable when you know what to look for.
If you live in an older home or you’re thinking about buying one, here are 5 common plumbing issues you might run into and what you can do about them.
1. Leaky Pipes
Causes and Signs
One of the most common plumbing issues in older homes is leaky pipes. First things first—locate the leak. For small drips or cracks, a pipe sealant or a pipe clamp might do the trick as a quick fix. But if you’re dealing with a bigger leak or pipes that are old and corroded, it’s time to bring in the pros.
How to Fix
First, locate the leak. For minor leaks, applying pipe sealant or using a pipe clamp can be a temporary fix. However, for significant leaks or old, corroded pipes, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
2. Low Water Pressure
Causes and Signs
Low water pressure can result from a variety of issues, such as sediment buildup in pipes, corroded plumbing, or a faulty pressure regulator. You might notice a weak stream of water from your faucets or showerheads.
How to Fix
Start by checking if the issue is isolated to one fixture or affects the entire house. If it’s a single fixture, cleaning the aerator or replacing the showerhead may resolve the problem. For whole-house low pressure, it might be necessary to inspect and clean the main water line or replace old pipes. Our experts at Cardinal can diagnose and fix water pressure problems to restore optimal flow in your home.
3. Faulty Water Heaters
Causes and Signs
Older water heaters can become inefficient, leading to inconsistent hot water supply or no hot water at all. Signs of a failing water heater include strange noises, rusty water, and water that is either too hot or not hot enough.
How to Fix
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup, can prolong the life of your water heater. However, if your unit is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. We offer a range of energy-efficient water heaters and installation services to ensure you have a reliable supply of hot water.
4. Clogged Drains
Causes and Signs
Clogged drains are often caused by a buildup of hair, soap scum, grease, and other debris. Slow-draining sinks and tubs, gurgling noises, and water backing up are common indicators of a clog.
How to Fix
For minor clogs, using a plunger or a plumber’s snake can often clear the blockage. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage older pipes. For persistent or severe clogs, it’s best to call a professional. At Cardinal, we provide effective drain cleaning services to keep your pipes flowing smoothly.
5. Outdated Fixtures
Causes and Signs
Fixtures in older homes, such as faucets and toilets, can become inefficient and prone to leaks. Signs of outdated fixtures include constant dripping, rust, and water stains.
How to Fix
Upgrading to modern, water-saving fixtures can improve your plumbing system’s efficiency and reduce water bills. Replacing old faucets, showerheads, and toilets with high-efficiency models is a worthwhile investment. Our team at Cardinal can help you select and install the best fixtures for your home.
Conclusion
Keeping the charm of your older home is important, but so is making sure the plumbing can keep up. Tackling common plumbing issues early on helps you avoid major headaches down the road and keeps everything running smoothly.
At Cardinal Plumbing, Electrical and Septic, we know the ins and outs of older home plumbing. Whether it’s a leaky pipe, low water pressure, or something just doesn’t feel right, we’re here to help.
Give us a call today for friendly, professional service you can count on.
Cardinal Plumbing, Electrical and Septic
Your trusted experts for all your plumbing, electrical, and septic needs. Serving Peterborough and surrounding areas with top-quality service and customer care.