New England is home to the nation’s most historic landmarks. Many of its cities, such as Boston and Providence, have homes dating back to the colonial period. Additionally, these cities are also home to some older apartment buildings dating back to the early 1900s. If you live in one of these apartments, you may experience some unforeseen plumbing issues. Read this guide on the top plumbing issues in old apartment buildings for more information.
Dirty Water
Older apartment buildings are notorious for dirty or contaminated water. Typically, this is due to pipe corrosion in the water main and sewer lines. After decades of wear and tear, sediment can contaminate the water supply. Sometimes this is harmless, with minor effects on taste and odor. Other times, there may be hard minerals or heavy metals in the water supply, which can seriously affect your health. Call a plumbing service to inspect and replace the pipelines if you suspect corrosion.
Outdated Fire Sprinkler Systems
Another common asset to older apartment buildings is fire safety. Many times, this includes a fire extinguisher and an overhead sprinkler system. However, broken sprinklers can cause havoc on tenants if left in disrepair. Tenant safety is one of the main reasons to regularly inspect fire sprinkler systems. Not to mention, there are hefty fines for landlords who ignore regular maintenance on their fire safety systems. Simple preventative maintenance can eliminate the risk of fines in addition to improving the health and safety of tenants.
Clogged Drains
If you notice frequent clogs in your toilet and sinks, it may be time to call a plumber. These are commonly due to a buildup of waste and debris from previous tenants. As waste builds up, it clogs the pipelines between your drains and sewers. Even if your drain doesn’t clog completely, it’s still important to resolve the issue as soon as possible. Clogged drains can cause faucets to back up, which can lead to serious implications such as water damage and flooding.
Frozen Pipes
New England winters can cause serious problems for homeowners and tenants. Frozen pipes are some of the top plumbing issues in old apartment buildings. Winter weather can cause pipes to freeze over, which can result in a crack or burst. In turn, your apartment can flood or experience significant water damage. Call a professional to insulate the pipes to prevent freezing. Letting a small stream of water constantly run to maintain water flow may also help.