Old homes come with unique plumbing problems that modern homes don’t have. Even though old houses can sometimes feel outdated, they often have unique quirks and issues. Old homes, especially older homes that have been left undisturbed, can develop all sorts of problems. From slow, leaky faucets to hidden water leaks, old houses can have plumbing problems that seem innocuous but can turn into big headaches if left unaddressed. Here are some of the most common issues in older homes.

Poor Plumbing Connections

It’s not uncommon for older homes to use common plumbing methods decades ago. While these methods are often effective, they can also make modern plumbing connections difficult. For example, older plumbing techniques often rely on compression to secure joints. This means that many joints in older homes are held together with threads. Unfortunately, these threads often get rusted or damaged over time. It becomes challenging to find if a leak occurs in one of these joints.

Old, Cracked Pipes

One of the most common plumbing issues in old homes is cracked pipes. Over time, even well-maintained pipes can become brittle due to age or poor construction. When a pipe’s integrity is compromised, it might crack. If this happens in an older pipe, it might leave a hole or crack in the pipe. In some cases, this can result in water pressure issues. Another issue that can occur with cracked pipes is leaking. Even if there are no open cracks, the pipe might be leaking somewhere else. If the crack is large enough, it could result in major water leaks. The best solution for cracked pipes is to have them either replaced or repaired.

Slow-Running Faucets

Another common issue with old plumbing is slow-running faucets. This might seem like an issue with the water pressure, but it’s usually a sign of a leak in the pipe. Slow-running faucets typically occur when the pipe is leaking, and it’s not uncommon for this issue to happen with old pipes. The best solution for slow-running faucets is to find the source of the leak and repair/replace the pipe. If the faucet is old and close to the end of its lifespan, it might just need to be replaced with a more modern model.

Leaky faucets

Another common issue with old pipes is leaky faucets. This is usually the result of corrosion on the pipes’ internal parts. This corrosion can cause a leak in the pipe or pipes around the faucet. If a leaky valve or leaky pipe nut causes water to leak out of the faucet, it can cause the pipes around it. Fortunately, these leaks are easy to find and repair. The best solution for leaky pipes is to use a stop-leak valve with a one-minute turn-off. If you’re not comfortable installing one of these, call a plumber to do it.

Hidden water leaks

Hidden water leaks are another issue that can occur in older homes. Leaking pipes usually cause these, but they can also occur due to poor construction or other issues. If you notice a dripping faucet or additional leaks in an old home, don’t try to fix it yourself. Instead, call a plumber to find the source of the leak and fix it. The best solution for hidden leaks is to call a plumber. These leaks are often difficult to spot and require specialized tools to find.

Conclusion

These were just some of the most common issues with old plumbing. Many other problems can occur, and many solutions for these issues can also occur. Keeping old plumbing systems well maintained can prevent many of these issues. Remember that any plumbing issue should be taken seriously and addressed as soon as possible.

 

For more information on different plumbing issues, contact Vinny’s Jersey Plumbing, located in Wayne, New Jersey.  We also service other towns in New Jersey, such as Parsippany, Hackensack and Lincoln Park.