Small-town living has a certain appeal for many people – a slower pace of life, a tight-knit community, and close proximity to nature. However, for all its charm, there are also some downsides to small-town life that many people aren’t aware of. One of these downsides is the unique plumbing problems that small towns often face.
Plumbing issues can happen to any home, anywhere. However, small towns tend to have their own unique challenges due to outdated piping systems or septic tank issues. Residents of small towns face a range of plumbing problems that are often different from those experienced in big cities.
#1. Outdated Piping Systems
Piping systems can become outdated for a variety of reasons, such as advancements in technology, changes in building codes and standards, and the age of the pipes themselves.
For example, galvanized steel pipes, which were commonly used in older homes, are susceptible to corrosion over time and can become weak and prone to leaks and bursts. It’s recommended to have a professional plumber inspect your pipes every 10 to 15 years or more frequently if you live in an older home.
In some cases, it may be necessary to replace your pipes sooner, especially if you’ve noticed leaks or low water pressure. The downsides of outdated piping systems are numerous. Leaks and bursts in pipes can cause water damage to your home and belongings, increase your water bill, and waste precious water resources.
Corroded pipes can also release potentially hazardous materials into your drinking water, which can pose a threat to your health. Outdated pipes can also be more prone to clogging, which can lead to backups in your home and costly repairs.
#2. Low Water Pressure
Homes in small towns may experience low water pressure due to issues with the municipal water supply or problems with their own plumbing systems. Low water pressure is often the result of old and poorly maintained pipes along with poor infrastructure in the town.
Low water pressure can make tasks such as showers, flushing toilets, and using dishwashers a major pain. Ideally, you want to have between 40 – 60 PSI. If you feel like your water pressure is abnormally low, it’s a good idea to find a residential plumber who can help you out.
Low water pressure has been a particular nuisance in some parts of North Carolina, and it has been affecting not just residents but also critical services. The main cause seems to be the old piping systems, meaning residents will find better luck hiring a plumber to install pressure-boosting pumps or similar solutions.
Finding a good plumber who can take care of the many needs that might keep popping up can be well worth the investment.
#3. Septic System Issues
Small towns often lack access to a centralized sewage treatment system, which is why many residents rely on septic systems for their wastewater treatment needs. A septic system is a type of decentralized wastewater treatment system that consists of a tank and a drain field.
The tank holds the wastewater and allows solids to settle to the bottom, while liquids are filtered through the drain field and absorbed by the surrounding soil. While septic systems can be a reliable solution for small towns, they are prone to certain issues that can impact the health and safety of residents.
Overloading, for example, is a situation that happens when the septic tanks aren’t emptied regularly. When this happens, they can cause backups and even overflow into your home, resulting in unpleasant odors, unsanitary conditions, and even health hazards.
#4. Hard Water
It can be pretty easy to tell if you have hard water. You will notice a high concentration of magnesium and calcium, along with other minerals, in hard water. There are a number of tell-tale signs, such as soap scum and white spots on your utensils. This is the result of high levels of minerals.
Hard water can cause a variety of problems for homeowners. For one, they often cause mineral buildup in pipes and water heaters, which can lead to reduced water flow and increased energy consumption.
This can result in higher energy bills and decreased efficiency of appliances. In severe cases, mineral buildup can cause pipes to become clogged and water heaters to fail. Hard water can also cause damage to appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers.
The minerals in hard water can also have a negative impact on our bodies and can strip skin and hair of natural oils, causing dryness, itching, and other skin irritations. Hard water is also notorious for making hair appear dull and lifeless.
These issues can be frustrating and time-consuming for small-town residents and take a toll on both the health and finances of homeowners.
#5. Frozen Pipes
Cold temperatures in small towns can lead to freezing in water pipes. As the water in pipes turns to ice, it expands and increases pressure on the pipes, often causing them to burst. This can lead to significant water damage to a home, such as damage to walls, ceilings, flooring, and personal property.
Water damage can be costly to repair and also pose a health hazard, especially if mold or mildew starts to grow. Frozen pipes can also result in a loss of water supply and higher energy bills. This is because frozen pipes can reduce the efficiency of heating systems, leading to higher energy consumption.
Small-town homeowners have to take steps to properly insulate pipes and keep their homes warm during the winter months so that pipes don’t freeze. One recommendation to avoid frozen pipes is to allow a small trickle of water to run from faucets during extremely cold weather.
Conclusion
Plumbing issues are a normal part of owning a home, and issues in small towns can be more problematic than one might initially believe. You will need to stay vigilant and be prepared to address plumbing problems as soon as they arise to avoid further damage and costly repairs.
Finding a good plumber to help you out can be very much worth investing in.
