What do a leaky faucet, constantly running toilet, and dirty air ducts have in common? They can cause severe damage if left unattended. Although these issues may seem insignificant initially, the prolonged effects will be something you can no longer ignore. For this reason, it is crucial to fix the problems when they are small before they turn into something bigger and more expensive.
In this blog, our experts discuss common household problems that many homeowners often overlook and their long-term effects on the health and safety of your home.
Leaky Faucets
Even though the fix can be relatively quick and easy, most people tend to ignore a leaky faucet. It might seem like a minor leak that drips an insignificant amount of water daily, so what’s the issue?
Environmental Damage
Just one household leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water daily. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average household leak will waste up to 10,000 gallons yearly. Wasting this much water is destructive to our environment and your wallet.
Increased Bills
A few drips at a time are just a small amount of water. Wrong. The tiny droplets become much more significant as the days pass. The leak can cause your water bill to increase by over 10% if left unfixed.
Drain Damage
Due to the constant flow of water dripping into your pipes, the water can become stagnant and attract pests such as drain flies, cockroaches, and fruit flies. If these pests can lay their eggs and reproduce successfully, it can lead to an infestation which will add to your list of things that can cause damage to your home.
The extra water flow will cause minerals to build up within your pipes and sink, causing stains and clogs. When drains begin to clog, bacteria will grow and cause your pipes to release an unpleasant odor. Additionally, the mineral stains in your sink can be impossible to remove and will require the purchase of a new sink.
Constantly Running Toilet
If your toilet never seems to stop running after you flush, it can be a relatively easy fix. Broken components or loose handles are common reasons your porcelain throne never ceases to run and can be fixed by enlisting the help of a professional plumber.
If left unattended, you are estimated to lose 22 gallons of water daily or 8,000 gallons yearly. This increase in water usage depletes the water supply and increases your water bill by over 4%.
Dirty or Clogged Air Ducts
Health Issues
If you or your family members experience sickness more often, it could signify that your home’s air ducts are dirty or clogged. Decreased fresh air can cause frequent sneezing, coughing, or headaches. Other signs that your air ducts require cleaning include:
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Fevers
- Sore throat
- Upper respiratory infection
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Due to decreased airflow, your heater or air conditioner might overheat. When overheating happens, the carbon monoxide levels will elevate and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. This toxic gas can lead to severe sickness and death without proper ventilation.
Improper Cooling
When air filters are not regularly changed, they allow dust and debris to travel through the air ducts, causing clogs and decreased airflow. When the airflow diminishes, proper amounts of air will cease to pass through your HVAC system and cause the copper coils to freeze, resulting in AC failure. When AC fails, your home will begin to rise to an uncomfortable temperature and can become dangerous to you, your family, and your furry friends.
Total HVAC Replacement
If too much dust and debris accumulate within your HVAC system, it can cause your entire unit to overheat and require significant repairs or replacement. These side effects are not cheap but are easy to avoid if the air ducts are properly maintained.
Call Our Experts!
At Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling, we offer reliable and affordable solutions for your air conditioning and plumbing maintenance and repair needs, backed by warranty options. For more information on how we can help fix your pesky issues and prevent bigger problems from developing, contact our experts today at (800) 717-1793!
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