Living in an apartment can be a great experience - it's often convenient, less maintenance, and sometimes more affordable than owning a house. But with apartment living, there are certain plumbing issues that tend to pop up more often than you'd like.
From clogged drains to leaking pipes, these problems can cause big headaches if not taken care of early. We’ll explore the most common apartment plumbing issues in New Jersey and how you can prevent them, saving you time, money, and stress.
Clogged drains are probably the most common issue in apartment plumbing that residents face. Whether it’s in the kitchen or bathroom, drains can get blocked by food scraps, hair, soap scum, and grease.
How to Prevent It:
Be mindful of what goes down your drains. In the kitchen, use a sink strainer and avoid pouring grease down the drain. In the bathroom, use a hair catcher in the shower and clean out the drain regularly.
For tougher clogs, try using a natural drain cleaner like a baking soda and vinegar mixture, or invest in a good-quality drain snake.
Leaky faucets can add up quickly on your water bill - something residents keeping up with Ocean City happenings might notice during busy summer months. The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer.
How to Prevent It:
Replacing the washer is an easy and inexpensive fix. Preventative maintenance involves checking your faucets every few months.
A running toilet is another common issue in apartments, often noticed when you’re busy planning things to do around town. This happens when the flapper valve inside the tank doesn’t seal properly, causing water to keep flowing into the bowl. This can waste a lot of water, leading to higher utility bills.
How to Prevent It:
Check the flapper valve every so often. If it looks worn out or damaged, replace it. Also, make sure that the toilet handle isn’t sticking.
Low water pressure is usually caused by mineral buildup in the pipes. Sometimes it’s a problem with the water supply.
How to Prevent It:
If only one faucet is affected, it could be due to a clogged aerator or mineral buildup. Cleaning or replacing the aerator may fix the issue. If the problem is widespread, contact your landlord.
Cold winters can cause a big headache for apartment dwellers - frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze, causing them to expand and possibly burst. This can lead to serious water damage and expensive repairs.
How to Prevent It:
Keep your apartment warm during the winter, even if you're not home. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
Insulating your pipes, especially those on exterior walls, is also a good preventive measure. If you’re leaving for an extended period, ask a friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your apartment and make sure the heat is on.
Sometimes, you might notice an unpleasant sewer smell in your apartment. This could be a sign of a blockage or a venting problem or issue with the main sewer line.
How to Prevent It:
Make sure that all your drains are clear and free of debris. Check the toilet for leaks or cracks in the bowl. If you smell something unusual, it’s best to contact your landlord or a plumber.
Water heaters are essential, but they can cause major problems if they break down. Common issues include not having enough hot water or experiencing water that's too hot or too cold. Sediment buildup in the tank or a malfunctioning thermostat are often to blame.
How to Prevent It:
Schedule regular maintenance with a plumber. Flushing the tank every year can help remove sediment buildup, and checking the temperature setting on your water heater can prevent overheating.
Plumbing issues in apartments can be a real headache, but many of them can be prevented with a little attention and care. By staying on top of small problems like clogged drains, leaky faucets, and running toilets, you can save yourself time and money.
Remember to do regular checks around your apartment, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your landlord or a plumber if you need help. You can also scroll through our site to learn more about apartments in NJ.
