6 Plumbing Issues You May Experience in a New House

You’re excited about your new home and can’t wait to settle in and enjoy the space. You’re confident that it will not have as many issues as an older house does but quickly get frustrated when you start to experience some.

6 Plumbing Issues You May Experience in a New House (Image Credit Pexels)

However, when addressed on time and correctly, you’ll permanently fix the issues and finally focus on enjoying your house. This is unlike an old property where some issues keep recurring. Here are six plumbing issues you may experience in a new home:

Water Heater Not Working

The water heater is one of the most critical appliances in your home, yet it’s often one of the most neglected. Not getting enough hot water signals a problem with the system. Check the pilot light if it’s still lit. If not, relight it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If that doesn’t work, call a professional to look at it. The expert will check the water heater installation if it was done correctly, the gas line for any leaks, and the unit itself for any manufacturing defects.

If the system is old, it may be time for a replacement. Water heaters typically last 8-12 years, so if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s more cost-effective to replace rather than repair. Consider assessing the condition of your pipes as well, as they often age alongside the heater; it wouldn’t hurt to take a look at the overall plumbing system while you’re at it.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues, whether you have a new house or not. They’re usually caused by hair, grease, soap scum, and other debris in older homes. In a new one, the construction debris, drywall dust, and other materials can quickly lead to a clog. Call a professional to unclog.

Afterward, use strainers in the sinks and tubs to catch debris before it goes down the drain. Periodically clean out the strainers to keep them from getting full and blocking the flow of water. Regularly clean drains with a plunger, auger, or natural cleaning solutions.

Running Toilets

A running toilet is annoying and costly as it wastes water and money. The most common problem is a leaky flapper or ballcock assembly. The first thing you should do is check the float ball and see if it’s properly positioned.

If the ball is too low, raise it to the correct level. If that doesn’t work, try adjusting the water level in the tank. If you’re still having problems, it’s time to call in a professional.

Leaky Faucets

A small drip from a leaky faucet may seem harmless, but it can waste a lot of water over time. A single drip can waste up to 20 gallons of water monthly, so fixing them as soon as possible is essential.

You may be able to repair the problem yourself by replacing the washer, O-ring, or other small parts. Check for leaks under the sinks, toilets, showers, tubs, and around all the faucets. They lead to mold growth, musty odors, and water damage.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure in a new house results from various factors, such as the water main being too small or the shut-off valve not fully open. First, check all the faucets if the problem is isolated to one or two.

If it’s only happening in one, the issue is most likely with that particular fixture. If the problem is happening throughout the house, it’s likely an issue with the main water line.

The issue could be with the pressure tank or the pump if you have a well. In any case, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.

Fix Problems Quickly

New houses are susceptible to several plumbing issues. Be on the lookout, fix quickly and, when in doubt, always call a professional. You will realize that when an issue is correctly addressed, you have saved money, time, anxiety, and effort. You will not experience the same issue for many years to come.