Ruptured hose leaking water in bathroom

10 Common Plumbing Issues Every Homeowner Should Know

Living in Waco, Texas, means dealing with a variety of weather conditions that can impact your home’s plumbing system. From scorching summers to unexpected cold snaps, your plumbing needs to be in top shape to handle it all. Here are 10 common plumbing issues every homeowner should know about, along with tips on how to address them and why Lochridge Priest Home Services is your go-to provider for all your plumbing needs.

1. Dripping Faucets

A dripping faucet may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste a significant amount of water over time. This issue is often caused by worn-out washers or seals. While it might be tempting to fix it yourself, a professional plumber can ensure the problem is resolved correctly and prevent future leaks.

2. Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes can cause extensive water damage if not addressed promptly. Common causes include corrosion, high water pressure, and pipe joint damage. Lochridge Priest Home Services offers a Peace of Mind Guarantee, ensuring that our licensed professionals will thoroughly inspect and repair your pipes, giving you confidence in the longevity of the fix.

3. Running Toilets

A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. This issue is often due to a faulty flapper valve or fill valve. Our expert plumbers can quickly diagnose and repair the problem, saving you money on your water bill and preventing potential water damage.

4. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are a common issue in many households. Hair, soap scum, and food particles can build up over time, leading to slow drainage or complete blockages. Regular maintenance and professional drain cleaning can keep your pipes flowing smoothly.

5. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be frustrating and is often caused by sediment buildup in pipes, leaks, or issues with the municipal water supply. Our team can identify the root cause and restore your water pressure to optimal levels.

6. Water Heater Issues

Whether it’s a lack of hot water, strange noises, or leaks, water heater problems can disrupt your daily routine. Lochridge Priest Home Services offers comprehensive water heater repair and replacement services, ensuring you have reliable hot water when you need it.

7. Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump is essential for preventing basement flooding, especially during heavy rains. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure it functions correctly. Our professionals can inspect, repair, or replace your sump pump to protect your home from water damage.

8. Sewer System Backup

A sewer system backup is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Common causes include tree root intrusion, blockages, and damaged sewer lines. Our experienced plumbers can quickly address the problem, minimizing damage and inconvenience.

9. Frozen Pipes

In colder months, frozen pipes can burst and cause significant water damage. Insulating your pipes and keeping your home adequately heated can prevent this issue. If you suspect a frozen pipe, contact us immediately for a prompt and effective solution.

10. Garbage Disposal Issues

Garbage disposals can jam or break down due to improper use or wear and tear. Avoid putting fibrous foods, grease, or hard objects down the disposal. If you encounter issues, our team can repair or replace your unit to keep your kitchen running smoothly.

If you’re experiencing any of these common plumbing issues or need routine maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact Lochridge Priest Home Services. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to provide reliable, high-quality service to meet all your plumbing needs. Call us today at (254) 304-8824 or click here to schedule an appointment. Trust us to keep your home’s plumbing, heating, and cooling systems in peak condition.

Dripping faucet in bathroom

How Dripping Faucets Affect Your Water Bill in Waco

In Waco, where the Brazos River flows and the summers can be scorching, water conservation is more than just an environmental concern—it’s a financial one. A dripping faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can significantly impact your water bill over time. Understanding how this happens and what you can do about it can save you money and contribute to a more sustainable community.

The Hidden Costs of Dripping Faucets

A single dripping faucet can waste a surprising amount of water. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a faucet that drips once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water annually. This not only affects your water bill but also places unnecessary strain on local water resources.

Calculating the Cost

To put this into perspective, let’s break down the numbers. If your faucet drips once per second, that’s 60 drips per minute, 3,600 drips per hour, and 86,400 drips per day. Given that it takes approximately 15,140 drips to make a gallon, you’re looking at about 5.7 gallons of wasted water per day. Over a month, this adds up to around 171 gallons, and over a year, it totals approximately 2,081 gallons. With the average cost of water in Waco being around $0.004 per gallon, this seemingly minor issue could add an extra $8.32 to your annual water bill. While this might not seem like much, it’s money that could be better spent elsewhere.

The Environmental Impact

Beyond the financial implications, dripping faucets contribute to water waste, which is a significant environmental concern. Waco, like many other cities, relies on a finite water supply. Conserving water helps ensure that there is enough to go around, especially during dry spells or drought conditions. By fixing a dripping faucet, you’re not just saving money; you’re also doing your part to protect the environment.

Common Causes of Dripping Faucets

Understanding the common causes of dripping faucets can help you address the issue more effectively. Here are a few typical culprits:

  1. Worn-Out Washers: Over time, the washers in your faucet can wear out, causing leaks. This is one of the most common reasons for a dripping faucet.
  2. Corroded Valve Seat: The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout. Corrosion can cause leaks around the spout area.
  3. Loose or Worn O-Rings: O-rings are small rubber rings that help seal the faucet. If they become loose or worn, they can cause leaks.
  4. High Water Pressure: Excessive water pressure can cause leaks in your plumbing system, including your faucets.

Why Choose Lochridge Priest Home Services?

When it comes to addressing plumbing issues like dripping faucets, you need a trusted and experienced provider. Lochridge Priest Home Services has been serving the Waco community and surrounding areas since 1963. Our team of licensed professionals undergoes extensive background checks, ensuring that you can trust the individuals entering your home. This is part of our Peace of Mind Guarantee.

Our No Surprises Guarantee

We understand that unexpected costs can be frustrating. That’s why we offer a No Surprises Guarantee. The quote you receive upfront is the price you’ll pay—no hidden fees or shocking numbers at the end of the job. Any additional work will be approved by you in writing before we start.

How We Can Help

At Lochridge Priest Home Services, we offer comprehensive plumbing services to address all your needs, including fixing dripping faucets. Our team is equipped with the latest tools and technology to diagnose and repair leaks efficiently. We also provide preventative maintenance services to help you avoid future issues.

Current Promotion: 0% Financing For 60 Months

While you’re addressing your plumbing needs, consider taking advantage of our current promotion: 0% Financing For 60 Months. With the hot Waco summers, ensuring your plumbing system is in top condition is crucial for your home and family.

Conclusion

A dripping faucet might seem like a small issue, but it can have significant financial and environmental impacts. By addressing the problem promptly, you can save money on your water bill and contribute to water conservation efforts in Waco. Lochridge Priest Home Services is your trusted partner for all your plumbing, HVAC, and electrical needs. Contact us today to schedule a service and take advantage of our current promotions. Let us help you maintain a comfortable, efficient, and sustainable home.