Plumbing Problems Can Threaten Your Health

By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Clogged drains, leaky pipes and other plumbing problems might seem like minor hassles of owning a home. That being said, ignoring these problems for too long can be dangerous to your health. A licensed plumber, JD Conrad, Vice President of Product Operations with Service Experts, a national home services provider, recently discussed some plumbing problems that, if not promptly fixed, may pose a risk to your health.

Leaks Behind Walls or in Your Cabinets

Tiny leaks are a common homeowner concern. You might first notice a water stain on part of the wall or feel damp spots at the base of a cabinet. Both are generally evidence of slow leaks and water building up over time. Many people hope to put off calling a plumber, not realizing that these leaks trap moisture and turn into breeding grounds for mold.

“We start by asking customers how long since they noticed the staining, and most will say a few weeks or months. Mold grows faster than many of us realize,” Conrad said. “Once mold has the right conditions, it could start reproducing inside 24 hours. The spores establish themselves within about a week and then the growth explodes. All the while, people are experiencing coughing, sneezing and feeling sick, and they don’t know why.”

“Moisture damage inside walls or beneath your cabinets can also attract unwanted guests, including rats or cockroaches, which can carry diseases,” Conrad added.

Drain Clogs and Sewer Blockages

“Clogs in your drainage and leaky sewer lines that go ignored can promote the growth of viruses and bacteria. These conditions can lead to infections including E. coli, hepatitis and salmonella. Clogged drains in your plumbing are usually easy to spot and homeowners are more inclined to call a plumber quickly because such clogs can produce a bad smell,” Conrad explained. But at the same time, sewer lines several feet underground can be easily forgotten since they’re “out of sight, out of mind,” but that’s a potentially dangerous approach.

“In situations where you might have leaks under the slab, the extent of the problem can gradually surface. You’ll smell sewage outside. You will also notice your drains are clearing a little slow, even areas away from the home might have some pooling of water where the sewer is” Conrad said. “These are all signs that it’s time you called a professional plumber.”

Main Water Line Leaks and Stagnant Water Pools

The water main leading from the meter to your home is a source of potable water for daily use. With enough time, the water line may become damaged. Tree roots are a common culprit. One of the most noticeable signs of a main water line problem is pools of stagnant water in the yard. Stagnant water, even from a clean water source, can spread fungi, viruses and bacteria. A serious health concern associated with stagnant pools of water is Legionnaires’ disease, caused by Legionella bacteria. It can lead to severe cases of pneumonia that also causes lung inflammation.

Old Lead Pipes

A long time ago, lead service lines were commonly used in home construction. While lead pipes were discontinued in 1986, there are approximately six to ten million lead service lines (LSLs) still functioning. The slow accumulation of lead in a person’s bloodstream can cause lead poisoning, which may be fatal or severely affect growth and cognitive function in children.

It’s not unusual for this kind of plumbing to eventually wear out. Homeowners may see a leak in a wall. Other times, a pipe could burst open, which will result in a plumbing emergency. Regardless, a home with LSLs should schedule replacement.

“If you discover that your home uses lead plumbing, it’s best to start planning the process of having them replaced,” Conrad said.

The Importance of Working with a Certified Plumbing Technician

Unlike your heating and cooling, which homeowners are encouraged to have inspected biannually, checking the plumbing is often a lower priority. However, regularly scheduled inspections can find these leaks and clogs sooner, potentially saving you from pricey plumbing bills in the future. The next time you think your plumbing system needs attention, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a reputable plumbing professional when you can.

“It’s ideal to have a plumber inspect the pipes every two years,” Conrad said. “You will also limit your risk by fixing faucet and showerhead leaks quickly, adding more insulation to vulnerable pipes, and being more restrictive about what you put down drains. And remember to watch your water pressure and your monthly bill. A pressure drop or spike in your total costs usually signals a plumbing problem.”

Stay ahead of major repairs and keep your home safe and healthy by learning more about the Service Experts’ Plumbing Services division.