Most of us think of plumbing problems as an inconvenience, but did you know that they can actually impact your family's health? It can be a very serious issue that may require the services of a professional plumber to fix before it’s too late.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the potential health risks that can stem from problems with your plumbing in Springfield Missouri and the potential warning signs to look out for.
Mold And Mildew
Leaky faucets or sweating pipes can cause pockets of moisture on your home’s walls and floors. Over time, mold and mildew has all the ingredients it needs to grow and thrive.
In addition to potentially causing structural damage by eating away at surfaces, the mold spores can cause respiratory infections, itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing, not to mention severe allergic reactions for certain people.
You can eliminate the mold and mildew using various cleaning methods, but unless you fix the source of the moisture problem, it will continue to come back.
This can be especially troublesome if the leaky or sweating pipes are in hard-to-reach places, such as within your walls. You may need to reach out to a Springfield, Missouri plumbing company with the know-how and tools to target and eliminate water leaks.
Harmful Bacteria
Clogged drains are more than just an irritating inconvenience. Food particles that get lodged in your drains can become breeding grounds for bacteria, such as e coli and salmonella, if left unchecked.
Problems with your sewer line that allow sewage to seep out can also introduce harmful bacteria. The longer these issues remain, the more bacteria that can form and travel through your pipes, causing such health problems as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and headaches.
Lead Poisoning
Some older homes and businesses still use lead-based pipes in their plumbing, which are increasingly dangerous the older they get. Water running through these pipes can pick up trace amounts of lead, which can end up in your drinking water. Over time, consuming lead can cause cardiovascular, kidney, and reproductive problems and even be fatal to younger children.
The best solution is to replace your older pipes with modern, safer alternatives like PVC.
Warning Signs to Look Out For
Being aware of the signs of potential plumbing issues is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment. Unusual odors, persistent dampness, or water stains on walls and ceilings can indicate hidden leaks.
Changes in water pressure or discolored water from your taps could signal corroded pipes or sediment build-up. Frequent drain clogs or water backing up in sinks and toilets are clear signs that your plumbing system needs attention.
When to Call the Plumbing Experts
It's essential to know when to call in the plumbing experts at United Plumbing. Our professional plumbers can accurately diagnose and resolve problems that could impact your family's health.
If you notice a sudden spike in your water bill, it could indicate a leak in a place you cannot see. If you experience repeated drain clogs or a sewage backup, it's a sign of a more significant issue in your sewage system. When a plunger isn't making the problem go away, it's time to call in the plumbing experts.
Keep your family safe by getting any leaks fixed, clogs cleared and pipes replaced as soon as you see any of these warning signs. Nothing is more valuable than a clean bill of health for your family.