If you live in an older house, it’s best to have a plumber replace the original pipes and additional plumbing equipment. The old fixtures are prone to corrosion and additional wear and tear over time, causing inconvenient disruptions to the family’s daily routine. For a better idea of why upgrading equipment is important, below are a few problems you’ll dodge by making the switch.

3 Common Plumbing Problems in Older Houses

1. Drainage Problems

As a house settles, the shifting soil can force sewer lines running into the house out of place. Sags, or pipe bellies, can form in the piping. When this happens, the channels will continue to hold onto water and waste after the flow has stopped. This often results in clogs that cause slow drainage when flushing toilets or sewage backups inside the house.

2. Water Discoloration

Depending on when the house was built, there might be galvanized pipes in the plumbing system. This means the metal was placed in molten zinc to keep away rust. The protective coating has a life expectancy of about 40 years before it starts corroding. This means deposits can contaminate the water supply, turning it a rusty brown color. The zinc particles can also get trapped in the channels, leading to water pressure problems.

3. Fixture Leaks

The original washers, valves, faucets, and handles of plumbing fixtures can break down or get stuck in place over time. This means liquid can slowly seep out of gaps each time you use the water. This causes an increase in water consumption and the associated costs. 

If you’ve experienced any of the above plumbing problems or additional performance issues, the licensed plumbers at Wild West Plumbing Heating & Drain Service will address your concerns. Based in Kalispell, MT, the trained plumbers repair frozen pipes, water heaters, toilets, faucets, and drains to prevent leaks and restore the quality of homeowners’ plumbing systems throughout the Flathead County area. To schedule plumbing services, call (406) 752-1244, and visit the expert plumbers online to learn about their satisfaction guarantee programs.