Rental property ownership has many responsibilities, and plumbing is one of its most important aspects. Plumbing issues are a nuisance to tenants and can be expensive for property owners if not fixed as soon as possible. In this article, the four most frequent plumbing problems that rental property owners encounter will be highlighted, along with advice on how to fix and avoid them.
- Faucets and Plumbing Accessories That Leak
Dripping faucets are among the most typical plumbing issues in rental houses. Although they are not a significant problem, they can cause more problems in the future. A constant drip, on the other hand, can cause wastewater and also lead to increased water charges. Furthermore, it can lead to the deterioration of the fixings and promote the growth of mold, which will definitely reduce the quality of the property.
How to Address and Prevent Leaky Faucets
Regular Inspections:
Ensure that all the faucets and fixtures in your home are checked frequently to see if they are leaking.
Tighten Loose Fittings:
In case of any loose fittings, ensure that you fix them to avoid any dripages.
Replace Worn-Out Parts:
Defective washers and seals are among the most probable reasons for leakage. Sometimes, replacing the two can work the issue.
Upgrade Fixtures:
If a faucet or fixture is in need of replacement, it is recommended that the owner replace it with a water-efficient one to save on water as well as money on the bills.
- Clogged Drains
Another common problem in rental homes is clogged-up drains. Tenants may not know how to dispose of products appropriately; hence, blockage in the sink, toilet, and showers may be experienced. Clogs develop when hair, soap scum, particles of food, and other materials that are not easily decomposed clog the pipes.
How to Address and Prevent Clogged Drains
Use Drain Screens
Advise tenants to avoid the use of hair and debris in the sinks and showers by installing drain screens.
Educate tenants
Give directions on what should and should not be flushed, such as fats and oils, pieces of food in the kitchen sink, and anything non-degradable in the toilet.
Regular Drain Cleaning
It is advisable to hire a professional drain cleaner to clean the drainage system at least once a year to prevent blockages.
Prompt Action
If a clog occurs, it is advisable to fix it to avoid further harm to the plumbing system.
- Running Toilets
A running toilet is not only irritating but also costs you extra money on your water bill. This problem tends to stem from a flapper or fill valve that is located in the back of the toilet tank. Fortunately, it is quite simple to repair with simple hand tools and replacement parts.
How to Address and Prevent Running Toilets
Identify the Problem:
It may also show signs such as the sound of running water or the water level in the tank being too high.
Replace Faulty Parts:
If the flapper or fill valve is weak, it should be replaced to prevent running water.
Adjust the Float:
At other times, simple things like adjusting the float in the toilet tank can help to solve the problem.
Regular Checks:
This means that one should always check the different parts of the toilets to ensure that they are functional.
- Water Heater Problems
Water heaters are used to supply hot water to tenants and are an important part of any rental home. Some of the common problems that people experience with their water heaters are leakage, inadequate heating, or an erratic supply of hot water. Such problems can be a great source of discomfort to the tenants and may call for expensive maintenance services.
How to Address and Prevent Water Heater Problems
Annual Maintenance:
The water heater tank should be flushed at least once a year to remove sediments that impair its efficiency.
Check for Leaks:
One should always check the water heater to see if it is leaking or if it has formed rust-like patches.
Monitor Performance:
Tenants are recommended to report any problems they might have with the hot water supply to enable early solutions.
Replace When Necessary:
If your water heater is old or tends to develop problems, it may be advisable to replace it just in case it fails you at some point.
Through these actions, the following benefits will be realized: your rental property will be in good shape, tenant satisfaction will be achieved, and minimum repair costs will be minimized. At Rooter Man Plumbing, you can get the most efficient plumbing services for your home or business.
