Like any other system in our homes, plumbing systems encounter issues on occasion. Detecting and addressing these problems quickly can save homeowners money and avoid costly repairs down the road. 

From dripping faucets to clogged drains and toilets, there are several common household plumbing issues that should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent costly damage, water wastage, and health hazards. Here are four of the most common. 

Leaky Faucets 

The drip-drip-drip of a leaky faucet may seem like a minor nuisance, but over time it can add up to a huge waste of water. This can cause your water bill to spike and can lead to costly repairs down the road. In addition, the constant dripping can lead to moisture build-up that creates an ideal environment for the growth of mold and mildew. 

Fixing a leaky faucet is usually a relatively simple task. Start by drying up any standing water and turning off the water supply. Next, remove the handles and secure hardware to reveal the valve cartridge or stem. These pieces are typically responsible for the dripping, and it's worth taking a look at them to see what the issue is (you can clean the parts with white vinegar as you remove them to ensure they don't cake up with future water sediment). 

While fixing a leaky faucet might seem like an inconvenience, the long-term costs of ignoring the problem could be much more costly. The constant dripping can wear away at fixtures, and moisture build-up can lead to mold and mildew that can be dangerous for household members with weakened immune systems or allergies. It is important to call a professional plumber for leak detection in Melbourne or where you live. 

Clogged Drains 

Your home's plumbing system is a complex network of drains and sewer lines. A clog in any part of this system can stop liquid flow and cause other problems that require professional attention. 

Many clogs are caused by food scraps, coffee grounds, hair and soap scum that stick to pipe walls over time. These clogs can happen in kitchen sinks, bathroom drains and tub/shower drains. If you notice slow-moving water, foul odors or a gurgling sound as water drains, it's likely a sign of a blockage. 

To help prevent clogs, don't pour grease, fats or oils down any drain. Instead, let them cool and harden before disposing of them in the garbage or trash can. You can also reduce the buildup of minerals in your pipes by having a water softener installed. Also, plant trees and shrubs carefully to avoid having roots intrude on drain lines. Finally, regularly use a drain cover to keep debris out of your drains. 

Running Toilets

A toilet that runs constantly wastes water and significantly increases your utility bills. It can also lead to expensive water damage to your home and property. Fortunately, many running toilet issues can be resolved by a simple fix at home. 

Flapper Valve Problems 

In most cases, a running toilet is caused by the flapper valve not closing completely or the chain connecting it to the flush handle is too short. In these situations, the toilet tank fills and overflows. 

Another common cause of a running toilet is the refill tube being too long and creating a suction effect. To resolve this issue, simply pull out the refill tube and trim it to be exactly above the opening of the overflow tube. This will help the tank to stop refilling and keep the flapper closed. 

Frozen Pipes 

When water freezes, it expands, putting a lot of pressure on metal and plastic pipes. This pressure can cause them to burst and flood the home. It's important to be aware of the risks and signs of frozen pipes so homeowners can call a plumber before they experience extensive, costly damage. 

The most common warning sign is turning on a faucet and only receiving a trickle of water. Other symptoms include a rotten egg smell coming from drains, frost on exposed pipes and strange noises such as banging, humming or hammering. 

Pipes that are most at risk for freezing are outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines and water supply pipes in unheated spaces like basements, crawl spaces, attics or garages. Keeping your thermostat at a warm temperature and insulating any exposed pipes can help prevent freezing. It's also a good idea to check for air leaks throughout the house that could let cold air in, as this can also increase the likelihood of frozen pipes.