Plumbing problems are prevalent everywhere, but the type of problems and their severity can vary depending on the natural climate of the region. As a result of the rain, intense heat, and typically tropical climate, Southwest Florida experiences its own set of plumbing problems. No matter if you’re a Florida native, looking to relocate, or simply want to know more about the local issues, the experts at Avis have you covered. We’ll help you learn more about the most common plumbing problems to better prepare yourself to spot them, prevent them, and resolve them.
Problem #1: Pipe Corrosion
Pipe corrosion is a problem that many know well here in Florida. This is an issue that stems from our water supply, as our drinking water comes from heavily chlorinated groundwater to remove minerals and sediments found within it. Despite ridding our water of this to keep us safe, the constant flow of chlorinated water can cause your pipes to corrode on the inside. Corroded pipes can lead to leaks, causing major damage to the walls or floors they run through.
Look For: Sudden leaks, discolored water, or bad-tasting or smelling water.
How to Prevent: Utilizing water softeners and filtration systems can help you purify water at the source, eliminating the sediment, minerals, and chemicals that cause the corrosion to occur.
How to Fix: The resolution for corroded pipes usually involves a full inspection and replacement of your piping system, or at the very least, replacement of the pipe that’s corroded.
Problem #2: Mineral Build-Up and Scaling
Pipe corrosion isn’t the only problem caused by our water supply. The minerals and sediment found in our water also contribute to excess amounts of buildup settling in your pipes and hardening over time. They can become clogged, preventing water from flowing freely and can result in burst pipes.
Look For: Clogs, low water pressure, scaling, and buildup around faucets and showerheads.
How to Prevent: By using water softeners and filtration systems, you can reduce the amount of minerals and sediment flowing and settling within your pipes.
How to Fix: Home remedies such as vinegar and baking soda or lemon juice can temporarily resolve the issue. The most permanent solution, however, is to remove copper pipes and replace them with plastic ones, which are resistant to scaling and mineral buildup.
Problem #3: Flooded Sewer Systems
Due to the frequent rain showers brought on by the rainy season and hurricanes, sewer systems are prone to flooding. When the ground becomes overly soaked, it relies on a place for the water to runoff. So if sewer systems are already flooded or there’s a lack of proper drainage, it can result in overwhelmed sewer systems, causing backups and leading to more flooding.
Look For: Water puddling in your yard, fields, streets, or in front of or around sewer grates.
How to Prevent: Make sure there is enough drainage to handle excess water and clean your septic and sewer systems regularly to prevent clogs and prepare for flooding.
How to Fix: If flooding is occurring in your sewer system, it’s best to have it inspected. Our plumbers use video inspections to determine the cause of blockage, whether it is debris or an abundance of water, and can clean your system if it’s required.
Problem #4: Tree Roots in and Around Your Pipes
We have a wide variety of trees in Florida, some of which are native to our state, and others which are invasive and cause problems for our natural landscaping (and plumbing). Because tree roots thrive on water, any leaks or cracks in your pipes may attract them, causing the pipes to become enveloped and taken over by roots. This will not only make it more difficult for plumbers to access your pipes if they need to, but it will also further damage and crack them. In addition to your pipes, tree roots can seriously damage your sewer lines as well. Having a strong attraction to water, they can also enter sewers, causing clogs, blockages, and cracking them.
Look For: Foul odors, clogged and backed up drains, toilets, or sinks.
How to Prevent: Be mindful of the types of plants and trees growing around your property and avoid planting anything near underground lines or pipes.
How to Fix: Calling a professional right away is the best way to remedy this issue before it gets worse.
Common Problems are No Match for The Experts At Avis
Plumbing systems are susceptible to many common problems, so you should conduct regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they’re functioning properly. Remember that you are not alone in dealing with these issues. With local professionals like Avis, we have the experience and expertise to navigate common problems we see regularly and create solutions that will work for you.
When plumbing emergencies arise, we’re available 24/7, 365 days a year and are local to Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and the wider Southwest Florida area.
Contact us today!
Cape Coral – (239) 542-4421
Fort Myers – (239) 481-1511
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