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Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes and How to Fix Them

February 25, 2025

Common Plumbing Problems in Older Homes

Many homes in Northampton, PA, were built decades ago, meaning their plumbing systems may be outdated and prone to problems. Aging pipes, slow drains, and inefficient fixtures can lead to costly repairs if not addressed early. At Action Plumbing Heating & HVAC, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing common plumbing problems in older homes throughout Northampton and the surrounding areas. Here’s what to look out for—and how to fix them.
1. Outdated or Failing Pipes
Older homes in Northampton often have pipes made from materials that are prone to corrosion, leaks, or even health hazards:
❌ Galvanized Steel – Rusts over time, restricting water flow.
❌ Lead Pipes – Can contaminate drinking water and should be replaced.
❌ Polybutylene Pipes – Brittle and prone to cracking.

💡 Fix: If your home still has old piping, consider upgrading to PEX, copper, or PVC for better durability and water quality.
2. Low Water Pressure
Many older Northampton homes experience reduced water pressure due to:
🔹 Pipe corrosion and buildup.
🔹 Small leaks in outdated plumbing.
🔹 Clogged faucet aerators or showerheads.

💡 Fix:
✔️ Clean aerators and remove mineral deposits.
✔️ Inspect for hidden leaks and repair them.
✔️ If pressure issues persist, consider repiping your home.
3. Leaky or Inefficient Fixtures
Aging plumbing fixtures waste water and increase utility bills. Many Northampton homes still have:
🚰 Dripping faucets that waste gallons of water.
🚽 Old toilets that use excessive water per flush.
🚿 Outdated showerheads that reduce water efficiency.

💡 Fix: Upgrade to low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to save water and improve efficiency.
4. Drain Clogs & Sewer Line Issues
Older homes often have clogged or deteriorating drain lines due to:
🔹 Years of grease, soap scum, and debris buildup.
🌿 Tree roots invading underground sewer lines.

💡 Fix:
✔️ Use a plumber’s snake or drain cleaner for minor clogs.
✔️ For severe blockages, consider hydro jetting or a sewer line inspection.
5. Aging or Inefficient Water Heaters
If your water heater is over 10-15 years old, you may experience:
❌ Inconsistent hot water.
❌ Higher energy bills due to inefficiency.
❌ Sediment buildup reducing performance.

💡 Fix:
✔️ Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment.
✔️ Consider upgrading to a tankless or high-efficiency water heater for better performance.
Why Northampton Homeowners Trust Action Plumbing Heating & HVAC
If your older home in Northampton, PA, has plumbing problems, Action Plumbing Heating & HVAC is here to help! Our experienced team specializes in:

✅ Pipe Replacement & Leak Repair
✅ Water Heater Installation & Maintenance
✅ Drain Cleaning & Sewer Line Repair
✅ Fixture Upgrades & Plumbing Inspections

📞 Call (610) 252-1256 today or visit [Your Website] to schedule a plumbing inspection for your Northampton home!

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