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Owning an older home comes with charm and character, but it can also come with a unique set of plumbing challenges. Plumbing systems in older homes are often made from outdated materials that may be more prone to wear and tear. At Goodman Plumbing, we have extensive experience working with older homes and helping homeowners prevent costly plumbing problems. In this post, we’ll discuss common plumbing issues in older homes and how you can prevent them from disrupting your household.

1. Inspect for Lead or Galvanized Pipes

One of the most important steps in maintaining the plumbing of an older home is inspecting the type of pipes used. Homes built before 1980 often have galvanized steel or lead pipes, which can cause serious issues over time. Lead pipes pose health risks, while galvanized pipes are prone to corrosion and rust buildup, leading to poor water quality and reduced water pressure.

If your home has these older types of pipes, it’s important to consider repiping with modern materials like copper or PEX. While repiping can be an investment, it will improve your home’s water quality and reduce the risk of leaks or pipe failures down the line.

2. Prevent Clogs with Proper Drain Care

Older plumbing systems are often more susceptible to clogs, especially if the pipes are narrower or have accumulated buildup over the years. To prevent clogs, avoid flushing items that shouldn’t go down the drain, such as grease, food scraps, or non-flushable products like wet wipes and paper towels.

It’s also a good idea to install drain guards in sinks and showers to catch hair and debris before they enter the pipes. Regularly cleaning your drains with a simple mixture of baking soda and vinegar can also help keep them clear and prevent buildup.

3. Watch for Signs of Pipe Leaks

Leaks are a common issue in older homes, especially if the pipes are outdated or have weakened over time. Small leaks can go unnoticed for months, but over time they can cause water damage, mold growth, and even structural issues. Be on the lookout for signs of leaks, such as:

• Water stains on walls or ceilings
• Damp or musty smells
• Sudden spikes in your water bill

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to call a professional plumber to assess and repair the problem before it becomes more serious.

4. Check Your Water Pressure

Older plumbing systems may struggle to maintain consistent water pressure due to pipe corrosion, sediment buildup, or outdated fixtures. Low water pressure can be frustrating, and it may indicate an underlying issue with your plumbing. If you experience weak water pressure, it’s important to have your plumbing system inspected to determine if pipes need to be replaced or cleaned.

Additionally, high water pressure can strain older pipes and lead to leaks or bursts. Installing a pressure regulator can help keep your water pressure at an ideal level, extending the life of your plumbing system.

5. Maintain Your Water Heater

Older homes often have aging water heaters that may not operate as efficiently as newer models. To prevent issues like inconsistent hot water or tank leaks, it’s important to have your water heater inspected annually. Flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup can help improve the heater’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.

If your water heater is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it with a modern, energy-efficient model to avoid unexpected breakdowns and reduce energy costs.

Contact Our Philadelphia Plumber Today

Preventing plumbing issues in older homes requires regular maintenance and attention to detail. By inspecting your pipes, caring for your drains, and monitoring your water pressure, you can avoid many common plumbing problems that older homes face. If you’re concerned about your home’s plumbing or need assistance with repairs or upgrades, contact Goodman Plumbing today!