5 Common Plumbing Issues in DuPage County and How to Avoid Them

Plumbing problems are no fun; while some issues are small and can be easily fixed by the homeowner, others may require the expertise of a professional plumber so the problems don’t persist. Here are 5 common plumbing problems and how to avoid them:

1. Sump pumps can malfunction, leading to basement flooding or outdoor clogs. “If your sump pump is over 7 years old, it may malfunction when you need it most,” explained Mike Krejci, professional plumber with Jay’s Plumbing. “It’s smart to have a battery backup system in case your home loses power during a storm. Make sure the discharge from the sump is far enough from your house so it doesn’t pool by your foundation and cause clogs and backflow into the home.”

2. Running toilets cause water to be wasted as it goes down the drain. “You can put food-grade dye in the tank and see if it leaks into the bowl after half an hour,” said Krejci. “A leak may only require a gasket or flapper change, but if the toilet is old, it may need replacement.”

3. Water heaters need to “breathe”, so they should be free of debris and lint on the outside. “Water heaters should also be drained annually to get sediment out of the bottom of the tank,” added Krejci. “An anode rod should be used to protect the tank’s interior, and should be switched out every three years.”

4. Visible leaks and drips of any kind should be fixed immediately to avoid mold growth and other problems. This is true for drips coming from faucets, water heaters, sinks, and the like.

5. Sewer line maintenance should be performed annually. “This is the growing season, so tree roots are seeking water and can grow into the sewer lines,” said Krejci. “Leaves and other debris can clog the lines, so it’s crucial to have them inspected and maintained each year.”

For more information, please contact:

Jay’s Plumbing

1509 Ogden Avenue

Downers Grove, IL 60515

630-434-9200

office@jaysplumbing.net

www.jaysplumbing.net