Health Risks of Poor Plumbing

There is no doubt that poor plumbing can lead to inconvenient and expensive problems. However, most people overlook the risk that poor plumbing can pose to your family’s health, especially the problems that go unnoticed and issues you get used to dealing with.

Here are some common plumbing problems that lead to health issues.

Sewer gases
Plumbing is designed to prevent gasses from the sewer system from entering your home. Poor venting or incorrect piping from drains can allow these gases into your house. The smell is only a small part of the problem, as some of these gases can be toxic and even explosive.

If you have concerns about your venting or piping, call in a professional to review and correct these issues.

Sewer backup
Poor drainage and flooding can lead to a full sewer backup that can overflow into your house. If you have problems with slow flushing toilets or live in a flood-prone area, call in a plumber to assess your system and provide you with solutions to protect you from a possible backup.

Scalding
Even though water must be stored at a high temperature to keep pathogens at bay, the supply from your pipes must stay below 120°F to prevent scalding.

Make sure your system has the correct valves, and that fixtures are set to limit the output temperature of your water to avoid scalding.

Mold and mildew
Hidden leaks can cause mold and mildew buildup in your home. This could be caused by old pipes that have corroded or are not connected correctly.

Take time to inspect areas in your home where piping is hidden in the walls. Look for evidence of moisture and listen for the sound of dripping. If you notice any problems, call in a professional to address these issues before they become larger.

Lead
Older homes are more likely to have lead pipes that can leach into your water supply over time and cause serious health problems for your family. Some pipe fittings may also contain lead. If you live in an older home and have concerns about your piping, contact a professional to review options for replacing outdated lead pipes and pipe fittings to protect you and your family.

If you need help addressing any plumbing problems, Tiger is here to ensure the safety of you and your family. Give us a call or schedule service online.

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