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Plumbing problems can be expensive to repair and might cause you considerable inconvenience. Worse, if you don't take care of them in a timely fashion, they might make you sick. Below are some of the ways household plumbing issues can affect your family’s health.

How Might Plumbing Problems Affect Your Health?

1. Bad Pipe Materials Leach Into Water

The water pipes in newer homes are usually made of PVC or cast iron, materials that leach no known contaminants into your drinking water. However, older homes—typically those built before 1986—may feature pipes of other materials, including lead, galvanized steel, and PEX or cross-linked polyethylene. These are not safe for hot and cold domestic water use, and lead, zinc, and cadmium that leach from the pipes into your household water could cause organ damage and problems with your skin and hair.

2. Pipe Leaks Encourage Mold Growth

Plumbing in La Crosse, WIAn undiagnosed or ignored pipe leak might not only cause untold amounts of damage to your home's walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture, but it could also make you ill. Interior dampness often leads to mold growth, and mold spores cause numerous problems, including itchy eyes, respiratory problems, sneezing, runny nose, and skin rashes. If you spot a pipe leak or notice unexplained excess water usage, have an experienced plumbing service inspect your system and repair any pipe leaks.

3. Sewage Backups Contain Toxic Bacteria

A clogged sewer pipe, blocked septic drain field, or an overflowing septic tank could cause sewage to back up into your house. Not only is this a colossal, smelly mess, but sewage contains a number of toxins that could put you and your family at risk, including E. coli bacteria, hepatitis, and salmonella. If you notice a sewage or septic backup, don't take any chances. Contact an experienced plumber and a professional cleaning service immediately.

 

If you're concerned about the health effects of one or more plumbing issues, contact Niebuhr Plumbing & Heating in La Crosse, WI. They've been serving the area for more than 100 years and offer 24/7 emergency plumbing service, HVAC repair, and reliable sewer cleaning. Visit their website to send them a message online or call (608) 782-1700 to schedule a consultation.

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