Plumbing Tips For Those Who Live In Older Houses
Posted on: 6 March 2023
When you live in an older home, you get used to some things not working perfectly. This is likely true of your plumbing as well. Plumbing was not always as well-planned years ago, and pipes and fixtures do age. As such, you may benefit from some of the following plumbing tips for people who live in older homes.
Fix leaking faucets.
When a faucet starts leaking, it is easy to shrug your shoulders, say "it's old," and figure the tiny drops of water don't matter. But leaking faucets waste a lot more water than you might assume, and leaks tend to only get bigger over time. This is not a plumbing emergency, but it is not something to ignore, either. Often, you're best off replacing a faucet, rather than repairing it, when it is old. If you just have parts that have failed to be replaced, another part is likely to fail soon. A new faucet will give you years of good use without the need for so many (if any) repairs.
Watch for rust in the water.
Some older homes are still plumbed with galvanized steel pipes. These pipes eventually start to rust when the galvanization wears off the inside of them, exposing the steel to water. If your water has been reddish-brown in color, especially when you first turn it on after having let it sit, then you have rust in your pipes. This is a sign you need to have those pipes replaced soon before they rust through. A plumber can install copper or PVC pipes in their place, as these materials won't rust.
Rattling may not be a bad thing.
If you ever hear rattling or pounding noises coming from your pipes, you may be very alarmed. It is a good idea to have a plumber take a look at the pipes just in case, but chances are, everything is okay. Pipes sometimes make these noises when they expand and contract due to changes in temperature. It's normal. In newer homes, the pipes are usually secured in ways that prevent the noises from happening or keep them quieter, but plumbers did not always take these steps in older homes. If the noises bother you, then you can have the pipes secured.
With the tips above, you will have an easier time living in a home with older plumbing. Don't hesitate to talk to a plumber if you have any questions.
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