Plumbing Problems In Apartments
Many people living in apartments don’t know a whole lot about how their plumbing system works. Apartment plumbing can be very different than residential plumbing, which can cause additional issues whenever there’s a problem: clogs, overflow, etc. A lack of understanding about apartment plumbing problems can make it difficult to know the difference between a minor issue and an emergency that requires a professional plumber.
If you’re an apartment dweller, here are a few things you should know about how your plumbing works, and when you should attempt a DIY fix or call in some experts, like those at Art Rooter, Sewer & Drain Cleaning proudly serving South Florida residents since 1983.
How Apartment Plumbing Works
Apartment buildings are either multi-story dwellings or multiple dwellings, which determines the type of plumbing they have. Multi-story apartments refer to tall buildings that can’t use municipal water supply because of their height. Tall buildings require a certain system, so water is able to reach every unit inside.
Multiple dwellings have separate plumbing units that are more similar to what you’d find in a home. This plumbing system, also found in condos, has different plumbing types that include horizontal pipes and vertical stacks. These functions ensure that each drain works properly.
Vertical stacks
- connect multiple apartments or condos, and generally consist of soil and waste stacks.
- carry rainwater from the roof of the building to the drainage system.
- include vent stacks, which release trapped air in the system, as well as waste stacks
- which connect to kitchen sinks, bathtubs, and showers (or any appliance that does not transport human waste).
Horizontal lines
- carry waste to the sewer.
- connect appliances that carry water, such as sinks, toilets, and tubs, to the appropriate vertical stack.
- run underground, typically underneath concrete, and carry waste into a municipal sewer system.
Common Apartment Plumbing Problems
Living in an apartment complex can mean dealing with issues that are beyond your control – plumbing issues included. Depending on how your plumbing is set up, one person’s leak can soon become your problem. That’s why it’s important to be aware of common plumbing problems in apartment buildings, such as clogged toilets, clogged drains, overflowing tubs, and frozen pipes. In colder weather (which likely won’t affect South Floridians), it’s important to leave faucets dripping to prevent this from happening.
How To Maintain Your Plumbing
To prevent any minor plumbing issues from becoming big ones (and to increase your chances of getting that security deposit back), make sure all parts are functioning properly. Look for rust spots or broken parts that may be inside your toilet tank. The rubber flapper inside shouldn’t be cracked and still seal well. If the toilet rocks when you sit on it, it’s not sealed properly to the floor, which could cause leaks.
All the valves of your plumbing fixtures should work properly. Any of them that leak or have developed rust should be looked at by a plumber, and possibly replaced. Also be sure to inspect the bolts that hold your plumbing fixtures together.
Help For Plumbing Problems In South Florida
Art Rooter, Sewer & Drain Cleaning is one of South Florida’s leading names in plumbing, as well as solving your electrical issues, fixing or installing air conditioning, ensuring your air quality, and treating your water. From installing, servicing, and repairing, we do it all, proudly serving the Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties in the South Florida area.
If you have questions or concerns about your plumbing, our professional and knowledgeable plumbers are here to help. Call us today for an appointment or a quote at 1-888-773-1524. We also offer emergency services.
