Your plumbing system is a crucial part of your home’s daily function. Over time, it can wear down, leading to costly repairs and inefficiencies. Therefore, it is important to identify signs that it needs an upgrade.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the same to help you ensure your plumbing system’s efficiency. If you’d rather speak to our expert plumbers directly for consultation and reliable solutions, call 0208 050 2707 today. We’d love to help you!
Not sure if your plumbing system is still in good condition? Let the experts assist! We are here to help you with inspections, advice, repairs, upgrades, and emergency callouts – whatever you need!
Meanwhile, let us take a look at the top signs that your plumbing system needs an upgrade.
1. Frequent Leaks Or Drips
Constantly fixing leaking taps or pipes is a major sign that your plumbing system is outdated. Leaking taps, toilets, or shower heads not only waste water but can lead to significant damage over time.
Whether it’s a small drip or a persistent leak, old fixtures or pipes may need replacing to prevent water wastage and costly damage to your home.
2. Low Water Pressure
Experiencing low water pressure in your taps or shower is frustrating, especially if it happens regularly. The cause could be corrosion or blockages in your old pipes, reducing water flow. As pipes age, mineral deposits or rust can build up inside them, and they narrow the passage while affecting water pressure.
If you’ve tried cleaning aerators and filters without improvement, it’s likely time for a pipe replacement. It’ll help restore water pressure and improve your shower experience and the efficiency of all water-based activities in your home.
3. Discoloured Or Smelly Water
If the water from your taps looks brown or yellow or smells unpleasant, it’s an indication that something is wrong with your plumbing. This could be due to old, rusted pipes or contamination in your water supply.
Pipe replacement or a plumbing system upgrade is necessary to ensure your water is clean, safe, and free of harmful contaminants. Additionally, older pipes, such as those made of lead or galvanised steel, can leach dangerous substances into your water, making a plumbing upgrade essential for your health and safety.
4. Constant Clogging Or Slow Drains
Frequent clogs or slow drainage can often indicate a problem with the pipes, whether they are corroding or clogged with debris. Over time, the build-up of sediment or grease can cause pipes to narrow, which leads to slow drainage or recurring blockages.
If you’re using harsh chemical drain cleaners regularly or dealing with persistent clogs, it may be time for drain repair or even a sewer replacement.
5. High Water Bills
If you notice a sudden spike in your water bills without an apparent cause, your plumbing system may be the culprit. Leaks, outdated fixtures, and inefficient appliances can all lead to unnecessary water waste.
Water efficiency is an essential factor in reducing your utility bills. A plumbing system upgrade can help eliminate leaks, replace inefficient fixtures, and improve the overall water usage in your home, saving you money in the long run.
6. Outdated Fixtures
Old plumbing fixtures such as toilets, taps, and shower heads can make your home look dated while also being less efficient. Outdated fixtures often consume more water than necessary, increasing your water bill and decreasing overall efficiency.
Upgrading to modern, water-efficient fixtures not only improves the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom or kitchen but also helps conserve water. With eco-friendly options available, this mindful action can contribute to sustainability as well.
7. Strange Noises
If you hear unusual noises like banging, gurgling, or whistling sounds coming from your pipes, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. These noises could be caused by air trapped in the pipes, high water pressure, or worn-out plumbing components.
Air in the pipes occurs when there’s a blockage or when the water pressure is too high, leading to these disturbing sounds. If left unresolved, these issues can worsen over time. Consider upgrading your plumbing to eliminate these noises and ensure the smooth, quiet operation of your plumbing system.
8. Pipe Damage Or Cracking
If you notice visible damage to your pipes or experience frequent bursts, your plumbing system is likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Cracks and damage in pipes can lead to severe water damage and flooding if not addressed immediately.
Old pipes, especially those made of materials like lead or cast iron, can crack or weaken over time due to corrosion or age. Pipe replacement is essential in these cases to prevent further damage and ensure your plumbing system operates safely and effectively.
Plumbing System Upgrade Cost
The plumbing system upgrade cost will depend on several factors, such as the size of your property, the extent of the work required, and the materials used.
Here’s an average cost breakdown of what you might expect:
- Pipe replacement: Replacing old, corroded pipes typically costs between £2,000 and £4,500 for a full system upgrade, depending on the size of your property and the complexity of the work involved.
- Drain repair and sewer replacement: For issues with your drainage or sewer system, the cost can range from £1,000 to £3,000. It depends on the severity of the problem and the amount of digging or disruption required.
- Plumbing fixture upgrades: Replacing outdated fixtures like taps, toilets, and shower heads can range from £100 to £500 per fixture, depending on the quality and type of fixture you choose. For a full upgrade, expect to pay between £1,000 and £2,500 for replacing multiple fixtures.
- Water efficiency improvements: Installing water-saving devices such as low-flow toilets and energy-efficient shower heads can cost between £500 and £1,500. This depends on the number of fixtures being upgraded.
- Labour costs: Plumbing work is typically charged at an hourly rate, ranging from £50 to £150 per hour. This varies based on the plumber’s experience and location. For a full system upgrade, you can expect labour to cost between £500 and £2,000.
Overall, the total average cost of a plumbing system upgrade can range from £2,000 to £10,000. For a transparent, tailored, and free quotation, call our team on 0208 050 2707.
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If you’re in Bromley and need help with your plumbing, look no further than our team of expert plumbers. With over 100 years of combined experience, we can efficiently diagnose and resolve any plumbing issue in homes and businesses across Bromley.
Our local expertise ensures that we can quickly identify and fix issues, including those related to your Thames Water supply. As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on offering responsive and professional plumbing services, including a 12-month guarantee on all our work.
We specialise in everything from routine maintenance to emergency plumbing services. Contact us today to conduct a diagnosis of your plumbing system and receive tailored solutions.
