Common Problems With Apartment Complex Plumbing

The smaller spaces and cramped living can make it difficult to install new plumbing or remedy common issues. Here are some common problems to look for and speak with your preferred plumber as quickly as possible.

Controlling Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common problem for those living in an apartment. Gravity often isn’t in your favor, and with multiple tenants using a combined system, the water use is high. Booster pumps are often placed in apartment complexes to help push water from the basement or ground floor to the upper levels. Increasing the pressure of the system will help everyone enjoy showers, wash laundry, and do the dishes without frustration.

Drainage In Multi-Story Complexes

Another problem that we see in apartments is drainage. Again, with so many people using a system, some residents could experience drain clogs, water backup, or lingering wastewater. In order to mitigate problems, apartments may have a two-pipe system, one of which disposes of solid waste while the other pipe disposes of all water.

Lack Of Space

Apartments are known to be smaller than homes, which can pose an issue when implementing plumbing. Some complexes will need more plumbing than a single-family home, so the lack of space could be inconvenient. Working on these cramped plumbing systems can be difficult for professional plumbers and can lead to major disasters if a problem occurs. Even small problems are hard to fix when they are located in difficult-to-reach locations. This is why working with a professional plumber is recommended, because a homeowner will not have the tools or skills to reach the plumbing fixtures. Inexperienced homeowners can cause further damage to the system when they try to make DIY repairs.

Services From S&B Plumbing

Our plumbers at S&B Plumbing are proud of their jobs and how they can help many different Utah residents better enjoy their homes. Whether you are living in an apartment, townhouse, or single-family home, we have the skills to improve your plumbing. When it comes to apartments, there are multiple services we offer that can make your rented space a better place to live. Services we offer that can benefit apartment renters include:

• • Emergency Plumbing Services

• • Garbage Disposal Services

• • Water Leak Detection & Repair

• • Tankless Water Heaters

• • Drain Cleaning

• • Water Filtration Systems

Do Plumbing Problems In One Unit Affect The Others?

Apartment complexes have connected plumbing systems, which means that a problem in one unit can impact the others. Shared shower and sewer lines are common in apartment complexes, so when one unit experiences backups, it can cause similar problems in the units directly below or above you.

Another common problem that affects all units is water temperature. Fluctuations in hot water use can cause cold showers or baths for neighboring units. Excessive use or a malfunction in a shared water heater could cut the available hot water in half. If you are experiencing plumbing problems, it is important to speak with your landlord as soon as possible to prevent further issues in other apartments.

Can You Install A New Showerhead Or Faucet In My Apartment?

Apartment dwellers will need to clear all upgrades with their landlord before completing. Some landlords will be thrilled with certain upgrades to fixtures, but some upgrades can be a hassle to remove or fix for new tenants. Plumbers can help you install a new showerhead or faucet in your apartment to limit damage to the surrounding area. Even if you remove the fixture when you move out, there are temporary options that can improve your apartment for the time being.

Can I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners In My Apartment?

Since apartment plumbing systems are all connected, it is recommended that you avoid using harsh chemicals in your drains. Chemicals are extremely abrasive and can cause damage to older pipe materials. Check your rental agreement for rules on drain cleaners and how to solve plumbing problems when they arise. Some apartments will let you handle plumbing problems on your own, while others have a recommended plumber they want you to contact. If you are experiencing clogs, try using a plunger, enzyme-based cleaner, or ask your maintenance team to handle the situation properly.