Different people have different tastes. Everybody has their very own idea of what their “dream home” would consist of. For some, they would love a brand new, custom-built house. Some may like a sprawling, huge floor plan, while others may want less space that they need to maintain. Other individuals find something charming and special about some of the beautiful older homes that exist. There is no right or wrong in noting what your dream home consists of. However, if you are one of those who like the “classic” look of yesteryear, we have a list of Plumbing Problems in Old Houses for you to be aware of. These could help keep your dream home from becoming a plumbing nightmare.

Now, don’t get us wrong. We agree the character and beauty of a timeless and spectacular home is a true sight to see. But sometimes no matter how careful we intend to be, the overall desire for certain items, such as your dream house, can make us forget to check on some important areas. No need to fret, however, we have got yo. Just remember the things we discuss below and you can avoid the Plumbing Problems in Old Houses that a less attentive buyer may not.

This is the first of a two-part blog series on Plumbing Problems in Old Houses. We will look at different types of pipes that you will want to look for and change out in this first post. Likewise, we will discuss possible solutions to any specific problems that you come across as well.

Plumbing Problems in Old Houses to Look for and Their Solutions

It is advisable in any home built before the 1990s to have a thorough investigation of any pipes in the home. This is because of many safety and health regulations that have changed and been discovered over the past 20-30 years. If there have been renovations, there is a chance the pipes have been changed out. However, it’s worth checking and below are three types of outdated pipes that could lead to huge Plumbing Problems in Old Houses if not addressed.

Old Pipe Materials to Check in an Old Home Before Purchase

1) Lead

One of the oldest metals that is used in piping. Before it was a possibility to use casting iron, lead was the ideal metal to use due to durability and malleability. Lead also was used in the solder that joined together copper pipe fittings.

As years have passed, its been discovered just how toxic lead is. Its unhealthy effects are at times deadly and are even worse when a child is exposed. Lead was actually banned nationally for usage in pipes in the home in 1986.

2) Galvanized

This is a common material used for the water lines in holes built prior to the 1960’s. It consists of iron that is coated with a layer of zinc. Eventually, the zinc erodes on these types of pipes. This leaves the iron pipe susceptible to breaking or corrosion.

Now, at times, galvanized plumbing has been known to last up to 60 years. But usually, they become completely clogged with rust, long before that six-decade number would ever approach. Most of the time, because of how these pipes deteriorate, they are fixed in sections as these Plumbing Problems in Old Houses call to leave the intact piping together until it does the same and just wears out.

3) Polybutylene

Polybutylene was at one point heralded as the “pipe of the future.” This, however, was around the time that it was discovered in the 1970’s as the rep[lacement for copper lines. This lead to Polybutylene being used in many homes built throughout the 1980s. Likewise, it would prove to lead to many Plumbing Problems in Old Houses, once the homes had aged.

Oxidants found in public water systems would eventually prove to cause a chemical reaction. This would make the material brittle, flakey, and eventually crack. There would be lawsuits and manufacturers would be forced to pay out millions. While some uses and homes still had this type of piping until the early 1990s, if you were to come across it now, with no hesitation, replacement is necessary.

Even if they do not appear to be causing Plumbing Problems in Old Houses, this piping is no longer made or rated by U.S. Building Codes and will eventually fail if not replaced.

More Plumbing Problems in Old Houses are On the Way

This is the first in a series of two posts about Plumbing Problems in Old Houses. In the second piece, we will look at bad repair jobs, bad fixtures, and failing sewer lines. Upon completion, you should have all you need to know.

To contact us at Poole’s Plumbing with any questions on this material or other areas of plumbing you find confusing, go to poolesplumbing.com

In many cases as homeowners, we don’t really put much thought into our plumbing until we notice something is wrong. A drip from a faucet, a wet spot under the sink, or for the purposes of this article, some type of issue with the toilet. Each of these is things that can draw our attention in a hurry, but in the case of the toilet, it is not necessary to wait for a crack or a leak. Thus, in this post, your friends at Poole’s Plumbing will go through several things to keep an eye on with this bathroom plumbing appliance. That way, you will know before a major occurrence when it is Time to Replace Your Toilet.

Referring back to the introduction to this post, there are certainly times when water is visible or the unit won’t flush, where you know there is some type of issue with your toilet. However, we have listed five things regarding your toilet that you can easily check on at home. If upon checking, any of these are visible, then rather than waiting for a problem, you can Replace Your Toilet, and in the long run, be sure you save yourself from a more serious problem.

Five Things that Tell You It’s Time to Replace Your Toilet. 

1) You Notice Cracks in the Toilet’s Tank

This is one thing that if you notice it, you would probably already think it’s time to Replace Your Toilet. But, just to review, you may see water frequently leaking or in puddles around your toilet. This means there is a crack in your tank somewhere. There is only one solution to this, and it is to Replace Your Toilet.

Even if you don’t actually see the cracks, when you notice the pooling of water, contact us at Poole’s Plumbing. We can advise or come out and inspect the situation. Likewise, we also can Replace Your Toilet for you and end the leaking once and for all.

2) The Toilet in Your Home is Old.

Think back and think hard. We say this because regardless of even if your toilet is in perfect working order if it is too old, you will want to Replace Your Toilet.

The cut-off date that makes one’s toilet outdated is 1994. This is because, since that year, federal regulations have made toilets much more water-efficient. Thus, the older model that you have, even if working fine is bad for both the environment and your water bills, too. Since you would. be going to Replace Your Toilet anyhow, we’d recommend looking for one with dual-flush technology for the replacement. These types are very common and save water, and thus they save you too, with each flush.

3) Wobbling or Unsteady Toilet

One thing to know right off the bat is an unsteady or wobbling toilet is never normal. Thus, when you sit down and notice this is going on, it is a good time to Replace Your Toilet.

Sure, the fix this time may just be as simple at first as tightening a few bolts. However, don’t forget the flooring under that wobbling toilet could be soaked and saturated. Either way, when you feel the wobble, it’s a good time to Replace Your Toilet.

4) Repairs are Becoming Commonplace

Another item that may seem to be common sense but is a telltale sign that it’s time to Replace Your Toilet. If you are having problem, after problem, after problem with your toilet….god chance that pattern is never going to stop.

So, even if the smaller fixes are cheaper, in the long run, you are just going to continue being met with more and more small problems until they add up to a large one. It is well worth the extra initial investment, in this case, to simply Replace Your Toilet.

5) The Toilet in Your Home Still Has A Round Bowl

Much like when we discuss the age of your toilet above, the units with a round bowl are becoming more and more outdated. We know, if your toilet is in fine, working order you may not even think of a replacement. However, there are a few reasons that changing to an oblong bowl is a good reason to Replace Your Toilet.

For starters, since the toilet model has evolved, one area of focus is comfort. Thus, a move to Replace Your Toilet from round bowl to oblong is roomier and more comfortable for sure. Additional reasoning is that they stay cleaner than the round bowl models. Likewise, they allow fewer odors to escape, which is always a good thing.

Let the Most Trusted Name in Raleigh Plumbing Replace Your Toilet

If you do look at any of these areas and think, “Hey, it’s time” to Replace Your Toilet…we got u covered. Just contact the most trusted name in Raleigh plumbers, Poole’s Plumbing. We can analyze, advise, and Replace Your Toilet as well. To reach us at Poole’s, visit poolesplumbing.com.

Whether a homeowner or a renter, everybody knows that helpless feeling when you are blindsided by a plumbing emergency. The instances we discuss below are not one’s that should come as a real surprise. However, with aging fixtures and just normal wear and tear, things eventually become a problem. In this post and the following post , we will walk you through how to identify our 8 Most Common Plumbing Problems.

Again, whether big or small or an issue you can fix or one that requires a call you will want to identify these Most Common Plumbing Problems. Here is a look at the first four of our eight problems and what usually causes them.

The Most Common Plumbing Problems: Faucets, Drains, Pipes, and Toilets

The first three of our Most Common Plumbing Problems focus on three separate areas that all are familiar with. Those are the faucet, drains, and the toilet. Listed under each problem are the signs to look for and recognize as the source of these potential plumbing headaches.

1) Dripping Faucets

The pesky drip. Everyone has spent a sleepless moment being thoroughly annoyed by a dripping faucet. This first of our Most Common Plumbing Problems should be addressed as soon as noticed, as it could turn out costly.

The possible causes to check for here are first a worn-out washer or “O” ring. This is a somewhat easy fix, as you just replace the old part. Another cause would be corrosion or possibly even bad installation. If either of these proves to be the source, give us a call at Poole’s Plumbing and we can lend a hand before the drip opens the flood gates on your pocketbook.

2) Slow or Clogged Drains

Now you see, when we say these are the Most Common Plumbing Problems, we are pretty sure that you can relate. We’ve all wondered “what is taking so long to drain.” Whether the sink or the shower, this issue can usually point to one of two things that depend on if one drain or multiple is clogged.

In each situation, whether one or multiple clogged drains, there are different things to look for. Likewise, there are different repercussions. Below is what to look for and how to deal with each.

• One Slow or Clogged Drain- When you have just one clogged drain, it usually means the issue in your home is local to that specific area. It can be caused by hair, soap scum, or other foreign objects that have made their way down the drain. A simple and routine drain cleaning should handle this problem
• Multiple Slow or Clogged Drains-  This is a big red flag. You might be dealing with some sewer line issues if you have more than one clogged drain throughout the house. You will want to give us a call at Poole’s to come to take a look. This is a serious problem and you want to get it looked at as soon as possible to prevent a sewage backup.

3) Leaky Pipes

Yes, you can see the pattern here. You have had leaky pipes before, more than likely. Hence, why we call these our Most Common Plumbing Problems. Now in the case of leaky pipes, we have listed below several things to look for that might be the cause.

• Cracked seals or cracked pipes
• Clogs or Obstructions
• Pipe Corrosion
• Excessive Water Pressure
• Pipe Joint Damage
• Incorrect Pipe Laying

In any of these instances, it is important to know that no matter the cause, get the pros at Poole’s out to look at these pipes as soon as possible. The longer they are ignored, the more damage you are at risk of having caused.

4) Running Toilets

Yes, we know the old corny joke…we won’t even say it! Seriously though, a running toilet may be among the Most Common Plumbing Problems, but it is no laughing matter. As a matter of fact, a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day. To avoid this, which can become costly, take a look, and see if any of the below are causing the problem.

• Worn Out Flapper Seals or Flush Valves
• Improper Size Flapper Chains
• Corroded Toilet Handles
• Refill Tube Issues

The Most Common Plumbing Problems Can Be the Costliest Ones Too!

As we are all aware of from these four issues above and plumbing issue, no matter how common can turn out to be a costly one. In our follow up post, we will look at four more of the Most Common Plumbing Problems and where to look to find their source.

However, in the case of those in the next blog entry or with any of the four above, call the most trusted name in Raleigh area plumbing and they will be sure the problem is ended. To reach us at Poole’s Plumbing visit poolesplumbing.com.

The smell is horrible. The comparison many give to it smelling like rotten eggs is pretty close, but it’s even worse. If you have that terrible Sulfur Smell in Your Drains permeating throughout your home, you will want it gone in a hurry.

The first item of business is answering why there is a Sulfur Smell in Your Drains. The obvious follow up to that is what is causing the smell. Luckily, the Raleigh area plumbing experts, Poole’s Plumbing is happy to help you address and figure out these types of issues. Consequently, we can help you get rid of that Sulfur Smell in Your House.

Sulfur Smell in Your Drains? Or is it From the Water Itself?

A valid question once you think there are Sulfur Smells in Your Drains is, is it for sure the drains? It could also be coming from your water itself. Thus, to test and see what the source is, you can follow the two steps bullet-pointed below.

• Pour a glass of water from your sink that you have smelled the sulfur in.
• Take it outside and smell it

Now, if you don’t smell anything from the water, the issue is definitely a Sulfur Smell in Your Drains. However, if you do smell it in the water, pour a second glass, but use a different sink. If both glasses have that awful odor, the issue is probably in the water. If only the water from the sink you initially smelled keeps the odor, you are probably looking at the drains.

What Exactly is Causing this Smell?

The Sulfur Smell in Your Drains can be from several things. First, and most common cause is a clogged or partially clogged drain. When. sinks become clogged, the drainage is much slower, and bacteria can build up in the p-trap and create hydrogen sulfide gas.

Likewise, the issue can come from a drink that has not been in use. This happens if the water in the p-trap dries up from it not being used, gas from the sewer line can rise out of the sink.

Another common offender (and we do mean offender if you had smelled this…) is a dirty garbage disposal. This one is on you people! Keep the food and bacteria out of the disposal or at least keep it clean.

What Can You Do About the Sulfur Smell in Your Drains?

Luckily, there are several things that you can do to prevent this awful stench from emitting in your home. First, always keep clean garbage disposal. Run it often and run either a disposal cleaner or ice cubes in it from time to time to keep the blades clean. Some lemon wedges or orange peels can help to emit a more pleasant scent from your disposal, too.

If the Sulfur Smell in Your Drains is coming from the bathroom sinks, one way to get rid of it and to eliminate the clog causing it. Pour a half-cup of Baking soda down the drain. Follow this with a full cup of vinegar, and then continue to flush with hot water. If this has not eliminated the smell, it’s time to call in the pros.

So, in conclusion, if you have the scent of rotten eggs or Sulfur Smells coming from your drain, it may be a simple fix. But if for one second you think it’s more serious, contact us at poolesplumbing.com. We will be happy to advise and lead the way to eliminate these odors for good!

We all love the convenience of just rinsing a dish and setting in the dishwasher to be cleaned. It’s a luxury that has almost come to be taken for granted. But that luxury can be appreciated very quickly when one discovers a problem with their dishwasher. One common issue that can develop is when you notice your Dishwasher is Leaking.

In the post below, we will take a look at why possibly your Dishwasher is Leaking. Likewise, with each possibility we explore, we will discuss a possible solution to that given issue.

Why Your Dishwasher is Leaking

Many of us have faced the situation. You see the water underneath and in front of the dishwasher. Obviously, you’ll want to put some towels down to dry up your floor, but then, our troubleshooting begins. Rest assured, when your Dishwasher is Leaking, many of the causes will leave you with an easy “do-it-yourself” fix. For exactly what to look for and how to go about fixing, see below.

Reasons that Your Dishwasher is Leaking

Before listing the possible reason that the Dishwasher is Leaking we should explain one situation to be aware of. This would be if you notice the leak happening while you run the kitchen sink. This would indicate a drainpipe issue. If that is the case, simply raise the dishwasher drainpipe above the level of the sink drain to rectify the problem

However, as with most instances, if the Dishwasher is Leaking while the dishwasher is running you could be facing any of the below problems.

Leaky Gasket

A faulty gasket on the dishwasher door is maybe the most common reason your Dishwasher is Leaking. To look and see if this is the issue, check the seal around the door. If there is a ripped or worn out area, replace the gasket and the leaking should be over.

Usage of Incorrect Detergent

If dish soap or laundry detergent is used in the dishwasher, this can cause excessive suds. Thus, the suds and water will seep out the door. To avoid this, only use the proper detergent for a dishwasher.

Cracked Hoses or Faulty Valves/Hose Connections

If your Dishwasher is Leaking and you notice the water coming from underneath, you have a water or valve issue. To address this, first either unplug the dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker. To check and find the exact leak location, first, remove the toe kick from under the dishwasher. This allows access to each part you want to check. These include the water inlet valve, recirculation hose, drain hose, and other components. Simply run a hand along each of the hoses for a leak. Likewise, look for corrosions, loose connections, or a bad solenoid valve. Replacing any old or faulty parts can fix your issues and end the leakage.

Float Switch Problem

In the case that your dishwasher is too full, the doors are more likely to leak. The float switch functions to prevent the doors from overflowing. However, if the float switch is stuck on something, it may not work properly. If you see this, replacing that switch will solve the problem.

Drainage Issues

If your Dishwasher is Leaking and you noticed it has not been draining properly, the water level can rise too high. To check and fix drainage issues, look at the filter in the. bottom of the dishwasher. Remove anything that is clogging that filter and remove it.

Leaky Pump Seal

Give a check to the seal around your water pump to check this one. If you see water dripping from the pump housing or motor, you must remove the pump and then replace the rubber seal.

Dishwasher Sitting Crooked

This may seem an obvious check, however, it is important enough to remind you. The dishwasher must be set and sitting level to work correctly. To check this and be sure, use a carpenter’s level and adjust accordingly. An even dishwasher will make it far less likely that your Dishwasher is Leaking.

If Your Dishwasher is Leaking and You’ve Tried all these Suggestions

If you’ve taken a look at the areas above and are still unsure or not comfortable addressing that your Dishwasher is Leaking, we have you covered. Simply contact us at poolesplumbing.com and we can advise or if you need to come out and take a look at the issue.

It has happened to us all. All of a sudden you notice after a flush that it is seeming to take your bowl longer than usual to fill back up. This is not a real uncommon problem. Likewise, it does not need to be something that turns into a huge problem., This of course all depends on how quickly you detect and address your Slow Filling Toilet.

Now, if you just read that and thought, “oh no, how can I tell what’s causing my Slow Filling Toilet,” it’s ok. Your friends at Poole’s Plumbing have got your back! Below we will give you three main issues to look for that could be the source of the Slow Filling Toilet. Remember, it usually takes the toilet about one minute to refill. Any longer than this you should keep an eye on the following things listed below.

Possible Causes of a Slow Filling Toilet 

As we note above, these are three possible reasons behind a Slow Filling Toilet.

Problem #1 – Water Supply Valve

Just to be clear, the water supply valve is the knob coming out of the wall just below the toilet tank. What purpose it serves is to control the water flowing into your toilet. If this is in any way closed or not functioning right, it may not be able to deliver the needed amount of water at the speed to fill it correctly. This would result in a Slow Filling Toilet.

Another possible problem could occur with the valve if debris of some type has built up. This can also make the filling speed slower due to the water flow being restricted.

Troubleshoot Tip #1 for Slow Filling Toilet

 If you check the valve and it is completely open, and still not producing enough water to fill the tank, call Poole’s Plumbing. We will give a check for debris buildup.

Problem #2 – Your Float Ball is Water Logged

The float ball is pretty self descriptional. For those not familiar, it is the ball inside your tank that sits on top of the water. Its function is to control the amount of incoming water. If this ball becomes waterlogged, it will not allow the tank to fill correctly.

Thus, the water may either fill at a slower rate or the correct amount may not enter the tank. This would also create a Slow Filling Toilet situation.

Troubleshooting Tip #2 for Slow Filling Toilet

 Check your tanks’ water level. First, remove the tank’s lid to check. Then if you can see that it’s not full or that the ball is not floating at the top, it may be waterlogged. As with the first two problems, if this happens, you could see a Slow Filling Toilet.

This is not the worst news however, as replacing a float ball is simple. Just pull the old one from the arm and put a new one in its place. Of note also though is that a float ball is somewhat dated technology now when it comes to plumbing resources. You may want to get more modern components for your replacement if the ball is no longer working.

Problem #3- Issues with the Fill Valve Tube

Your fill valve tube is inside the toilet tank as well. Quite simply when you look in the tank, it is the tube attaching to the fill valve. The tube’s function is to control the tank’s water level. Over time, with any toilet, the fill valve can start wearing down. Likewise, they can move out of alignment or become clogged as well. If any of those three problems are occurring with your fill valve tube, it can stop the tank from properly filling up.

Troubleshooting Tip #3 for Slow Filling Toilet

If you rule out the water supply valve and a waterlogged float ball, you should look at the actual fill valve. Look for any signs of wear and tear of it being in an incorrect position. It should be on the left side of the tank. Likewise, it should have a tailpiece that extends through the tank’s bottom where it attaches to the supply tube or shut off valve.

So, if you happen to notice you have a Slow Filling Toilet, this is no reason to fret. Calmly, coolly, and assuredly just take a look at each of the possibilities above and analyze. If there is an issue that you are uncertain or uncomfortable in fixing personally, give us a call! Here at Poole’s Plumbing, we are the number one name in Raleigh plumbers for over 20 years. To contact us, following the link to our “Contact Us” section at poolesplumbing.com.

Many have never before relied on a well system for their plumbing or water source. Thus, they probably cannot imagine some of the water pressure issues that can go along with this. However, for those who do have to deal with Well System Water Pressure problems, it can truly be a frustrating one.

Just because you are a homeowner whose home uses a well system though does not mean you need to suffer through the problems that can arise with this. On the contrary, the trusted Raleigh professional plumbers here at Poole’s Plumbing are once again here to help. Thus, by checking regularly and following our troubleshooting tips below, you can stay on top of your Well System Water Pressure issues and nowhere to look and fix if they resurface again somewhere down the line.

Is There a Way to Improve My Well System Water Pressure on My Own?

To begin taking a look at improving your Well System Water Pressure, first, it is advisable to learn how to test your water pressure. The ideal level for Well System Water Pressure is between 40 and 60 psi. Once you have learned to check the pressure, remember to give this a look several times throughout the year, so if levels are dropping you are in the know before any problem persists.

Where Do I Start to Check the Pressure?

In order to accurately check your Well System Water Pressure, the first step is to turn off your circuit. This will be connected directly to your well pump. Once certain that the circuit is off, use a gauge to test your system’s air fill valve. As we note above, you are looking for this to read between 40 and 60 psi. Thus, if the Well System Water Pressure is outside of that range, adjust your pressure switch accordingly.

Even After Adjusting, My Well System Water Pressure is Still Low

So, you took the first step in troubleshooting the issue and got no results. Not to worry or get frustrated, as this can happen. Many times, if the Well System Water Pressure does not fix the issue, it can mean you have a clogged water pipe. This is not uncommon, as pipes can over time become filled with debris such as mineral deposits or sediment. These types of things entering your water pipes can allow the flow. Thus, this would lead to a decrease in pressure. If you think this is where the problem lies, we recommend calling the professionals here at Poole’s Plumbing. This way, we can come out and do a diagnostic test to see if you have a blockage or if possibly your pipes are too narrow.

Time to Inspect

So, to this point our troubleshooting has our pressure checked and eliminated the prospect of a clog. The next step to check our Well System Water Pressure level is inspection. The first thing to be inspected is the water itself. If you find that you have “hard water,” this could certainly be your water pressure issue. To diagnose this, look for calcium deposits on or near your faucets. If you see these things, you will want to install a water softener. This can take care of any hard water issues.

Now, when checking your Well System Water Pressure, you may be able to detect hard water in your pipes. However, another possible cause here is a failing pressure tank or well pump. If either of these is the issue, call us here at Poole’s Plumbing. We can do a diagnostic on your well pump and pressure tank to see what exactly the cause is. Likewise, once the issue is identified, we can get your water pressure up to a normal level.

What About a Constant Pressure System?

If you do not already have a constant pressure system, the purpose they serve is to keep water pressure from dropping even when multiple water sources or fixtures in your home are being used at once. You can install this device on your water line which enters your home. This will give your Well System Water Pressure a consistently strong flow.

If in any way, you are trying to diagnose your Well System Water Pressure and you are unsure, give us a call. Likewise, if any of these steps once you arrive at them make you uncomfortable, just go to poolesplumbing.com and get in touch, so we can get out and lend you a hand.