Defective plumbing when buying a home: what to do?

[Huxley]

The unthinkable has happened and you have plumbing problems after purchasing your dream home. The following tips will help you understand your options for dealing with the situation.

A pipe pops while you are unpacking your boxes? Naturally, you blame the seller, the inspector, the real estate agent, and just about everyone. Once you've calmed down, it's time to figure out what you can do.

Galvanized steel must go
Pretty much all older homes will have a major plumbing problem - you just found yours right away. A lot of problems are with galvanized pipes and the fact that plaque builds up inside the pipe decreases the water flow to your faucets. Here are your options:

Replace the problematic pipe (s) with new galvanized steel pipe - a cheaper option and more like a temporary fix. If your pipes are very old, there is a risk of damage during replacement.

Replace the problematic pipe (s) with copper - easier to work with for "Plumbers Bristol ", but there is also a risk of future corrosion when the zinc and iron in the remaining galvanized pipes mix with the copper and minerals in the pipe. 'water.

Replace all pipes with copper - of course, a complete replacement is expensive, but it will last a very long time and add value to your home as well.

Replace all pipes with plastic - cheaper, lighter and easier to work with than copper; this is a popular alternative. However, there is still debate as to whether plastic pipes can pass harmful chemicals into your water.

Now for the little problems
If plumbing isn't your biggest issue, repairs will likely be a bit more manageable. While costs vary widely depending on your location, here's a general idea of ​​what you might have to pay:

A toilet - a few hundred dollars;
A kitchen or bathroom faucet - at least a hundred dollars;
A bathtub - over a thousand dollars;
A kitchen sink or a bathroom sink - at least a few hundred dollars;
A water heater - a few hundred dollars.
Get out your tools and save money
If you have major repairs, like replacing pipes, you will probably need to call a professional.

For other chores, like replacing a faucet or sink, you may be able to do them yourself and save money.
Go green
In the event of a toilet replacement, you can reduce your water bill with low-flow, eco-friendly models.

The same goes for shower heads, where you can significantly reduce your water use.
If you discovered a plumbing problem after purchasing your home, don't worry. You have options and you may be able to save money by doing some tasks yourself. Find a reputable plumber, get a quote, and enjoy your new home.

Some basic plumbing concepts to know
Do you and the plumbing make two? Here are some little basics that will help you better understand your plumbing system and how to fix some small problems that are within everyone's reach.

Ancient times and modern times
At one time, irrigation systems were supplied by manual pumps operating with the help of counterweights and the distribution of water was done by means of an aqueduct bridge.

If some of these vestiges still testify today to the ingenuity of the peoples of the past, the evolution of technologies, new scientific knowledge and greater know-how have totally revolutionized the world of plumbing and mechanics.

Over time, plumbing systems have greatly improved in quality. In addition, they are now much more efficient. The water and sewer networks serve millions of citizens and meet the ever-growing needs of the industrial world.

In our residences, a water supply and wastewater drainage network, as well as an aeration system are installed.

Various materials
Plumbing and piping systems are made of rigid, heavy-duty plastic pipes, such as ABS (acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), as well as cast iron, galvanized steel and copper .

Plastic pipes are mainly used for drain and sewer pipes, while steel and copper pipes are mainly used for hot and cold water pipes.

In addition to their durability, chrome-plated copper and chrome-plated brass are also prized for their brilliance. They are therefore used as supply pipes to the various devices.

Good maintenance
A plumbing system is not foolproof. Following certain guidelines will help you keep the network in good condition and avoid costly repairs:

Install a colander in the drain of your tub and your shower will prevent hair from collecting;
As for the kitchen sink, always leave the filter cap which allows small pieces of food to be intercepted;

If you notice any odor problems coming from the sink, shower or basement toilet, the water from the siphon (a device intended to prevent the communication of stale air from the sewers and pipes with the air in the living quarters) has evaporated. It will then suffice to fill it by running a good quantity of water. Regularly draining the siphons will help ward off bad odors;
If one or more plumbing fixtures emit odors, it is also possible that the problem is related to the malfunction of the drainage system. Check to see if the vent on the roof of the house is blocked. Have it inspected by a professional who can quickly assess the condition of the system and remedy the situation. To ward off odor problems, you can use baking soda, a product that helps dissolve fat.

That said, as soon as you notice a leak in the pipe, a clogged pipe or unpleasant odors, seek help from a plumbing specialist who can spot the problem and save you from having to make major repairs if you let the problem continue.