Faulty plumbing can be a real headache and the actual problem may be difficult to locate. For example, leaking pipes can be hidden by the foundation or located deep in the walls. Hidden leaks can be an expensive problem because they waste water and increase the utility bill. Unfortunately, locating the issue can be tough because the leak could be slow enough that the water does not seep outside the wall. If the leak is under the foundation, then the moisture from it may never be visible. Plumbing experts can help because they have the tools to finds those leaks. One of these is a high frequency acoustic sampler. This tool lets the contractor listen inside the walls for the unique sounds that dripping or spraying water makes.
Another reason that a property owner may need plumbing repair is a clog in the drains. Drains clog for many reasons such as hair in the pipe traps, but a blockage in the main sewer pipes will usually require expert help. Clogs in the sewer pipe can be caused by waste blockage or it could be the result of plant roots. Plants are always seeking nutrients and a break in the sewer line provides access to some very nutrient rich water. Raw sewage will help the plant grow faster and this means that even more roots will grow. This results in a root ball that will stop just about anything. Eliminating the problem usually requires accessing the area of the pipe where the roots have gained entrance.
Toilets can also be a source of plumbing issues. A blockage in the commode can be easy to eliminate, but stopping that constantly running toilet takes more work. Inside the tank of the toilet is a valve that opens for flushing along with a couple of mechanical systems. The first of these is used to open the valve and the second controls water level. Some toilets use a simple rubber flap that can degrade over time. This is usually where the leak begins because the water seeps past the damaged valve. Other items in the toilet that can fail include the float valve. This is the device that controls water level and it can get jammed if corrosion builds up in it.