Plumbing is an essential part of our homes. Plumbing carries gas and water to our homes and directs wastewater and sewage away from the home. Our homes also have various outdoor plumbing fixtures that contribute to the value and function of our homes. Too often, we are more concerned about plumbing problems that occur within the structure of our homes. We forget that outdoor plumbing fixtures can also be affected by problems. Below, we take a closer look at outdoor plumbing fixtures and the problems that affect them.
Outdoor faucets and hose bibs are crucial for providing access to water from outside the structure of the house. You can attach a hose to your outdoor faucet or hose bib when washing your car, irrigating flower beds or for any other outdoor function that requires water without having to enter your home. Some of the most common problems experienced with outdoor faucets and hose bibs include:
• Freezing
When the temperatures fall below freezing, exposed faucets and hose bibs can freeze. If there was water in the faucet or hose bib, this will freeze too. Water expands when it freezes. This requirement for more space will lead to the bursting or cracking of pipes.
• Leaking and dripping
It isn’t uncommon to experience leaks with outdoor faucets and hose bibs. These fixtures are exposed to harsh elements of the weather. They are also subjected to heavy duty use. This can lead to wearing out of seals, damaged washers or the connections becoming loose over time. All of this can cause leaks.
Sprinkler systems are essential for maintaining lush green lawns. They provide a worry-free way to ensure that your grass and flower beds are kept hydrated. However, like other outdoor plumbing fixtures, they can experience problems. Some of the common problems experienced by sprinkler systems include:
• Clogged sprinkler heads
This occurs when dirt, debris or even mineral deposits clog the sprinkler heads. This causes uneven watering of the lawn. If the clogging is bad, the sprinklers may be completely blocked.
• Leakage
Leaks in the pipes or connections can lead to waste of water. Leaks can also cause damage to your landscape when the problem is not addressed.
• Misaligned sprinklers
The sprinklers must be aligned properly in order to irrigate the lawn efficiently. Misalignment can result in waste of water or water damage.
Mains water lines supply our homes with potable water. They are the lifeline of our homes. However, like other outdoor fixtures, they can also be damaged. Some common problem experienced with mains water lines include:
• Freezing and bursting
Exposed mains water lines can freeze during winter. The water within these pipes also freezes. This can lead to the bursting of these pipes. Frozen pipes often mean that the supply of water to your home will be cutoff until the problem is resolved. Burst water pipes can mean the loss of gallons of water and high water bills.
• Corrosion
This is especially common when dealing with older pipes. It can lead to the weakening of the pipes and reduced water flow. It can also result in leaks.
• Construction damage
Renovations, house expansions or even landscaping can result in damage to mains water lines. This can occur during excavation of the property.
With decades of experience, you'll get the job done right, the first time!
