Introduction
With the population density ranking itself high globally, majority of Singaporeans live in the HDB (Housing & Development Board) flats, which are considered as the apartments. While HDB flats are designed in such a functional manner, it is common for every household including HDB flats to face plumbing problems such as leakage, choked sinks and drains, water heaters, and many more. Even minor plumbing issues, if not addressed right away, can lead to pipe blocks, floods, damages, and development of mold which are unhealthy. Please read on as we take a shot at addressing the five most typical plumbing issues in HDB households and the ways on how one can try to resolve them.
#1: Leaky Faucets
A dripping tap is perhaps one of the most prevalent problems in plumbing in HDB-flats. The constant dripping not only causes one to spend a lot of money on bills but can also be a very annoying problem especially when one wants to take a nap or simply unwind at the comfort of their home. Usually, it is a simple and quick repair which can be done without the professional help of a licensed plumber by any homeowner. It just requires searching for the make and model of the leaking faucet, looking for the matching replacement parts which includes rubber washers and O-rings, shutting off the water supply, dismantling the faucet, and replacing the worn parts. It is useful to have the manufacturer’s instructions by your side for references. Any given kitchen or bathroom faucet is comprised of the same internal components so basic repair work is easy as long as you know that.
#2: Blocked Drainage System; Sinking
The other common plumbing problem- blocked drain and sinks whereby water is backed up, overflows, has a bad smell or slow flowing. Among HDB flats, the areas that are most prone to blockage comprise water traps located beneath sinks and vulnerable bathroom drainage pipes. Some of the common causes of clogged drains include: food particles and grease, soap scum and other detergents, and hair among others. Of food particles, grease tends to attach itself to the interior of pipes as hair and fibers cling to any bends and joints of the piping system. In this case, the best strategy is precautionary, one should fit drain guards, avoid emptying oils into sinks, avoid clogging showers with hair and ensure that the drains are occasionally cleansed by enzymatic drain cleaners that help to break any debris and allow for free and smooth flow. Things like hair and grease buildup may require the use of an auger or plumber’s snake in the pipes. To install the drain, simply place the hooked end into the drain aperture and then rotate clockwise while applying pressure. Dislodging the hair/debris wad should help clear the pipe because the clogging was caused by the hair/debris wad.
#3: Water Heater Dripping
Without fail, every HDB flat requires the use of water heaters, which are fundamental appliances. Nonetheless, like any other mechanical apparatus, water heaters if in use for several years may begin to misbehave with a leakage from the bottom of the tank or its pipes. This is often a sign that the tank linings or joints that are used in the construction are wearing out and therefore need replacement. For electric water heaters, ensure that the pressure release valve does not produce constant dripping since it can be as a result of high pressure or a bad release valve. It is recommended that the power supply to the water heater and the water valve supplying the tank be turned off prior to draining the tank. Then check the heating element, pipes and other fittings for crack signs and rusty areas. If any part is rusted, they should be replaced, and then the should be placed back in their rightful position. Also, it is recommended to replace heaters that are quite old and have been in use for over 8 years of use and where one is aiming at preventing leaks or bursting.
#4: Low Water Pressure
Loss of pressure in the pipe line is commonly the cause of low water pressure problems such as pipe blockages or frequent usage of water in the building. In the case of low pressure problems it is even worst since the problems are most likely to affect the units on the upper floors. Basically, there are some tips or home remedies that may help to solve the water problems for some time they are as follows: Check the main shut-off valve to ensure that it is fully open, you should remove the faucet aerators and rinse them with water, check for kinks or blockages on the pipes and if the building uses water pumps then they should be checked too. Rinse each faucet to make sure of the flows, to check if the problem has affected only a few outlets. If flow rates remain low across the board, it is advisable to seek help of your managing agent or licensed plumber and ask them to check the whole plumbing system of the flat or building pressure pipes. As a result, they will be able to identify and fix the problem as a fundamental issue where needed.
#5: Noisy Pipes
Frequently they are not associated with very big plumbing problems, nevertheless they can certainly be a source of constant problem inside homes. This is a phenomenon referred to as water hammer which makes loud gushing, banging or hammering water pipe sounds each time the faucets are turned on or off or any time the toilets are flushed. It refers to the surging pressure or force that goes through the piping system at the moment when the distribution of water ceases. The loudness suggests pipework which has not been fixed tightly enough to the brackets. Some of the measures that people take while fixing the issue on their own include putting pipe hangers and brackets on visible pipe lines, clamping the shaking parts, packing insulation on the pipes to reduce sound and tightening turns and valves slower. For interior concealed pipes, only your licensed plumber will have the specialized muonographic equipment to locate areas that needs rectification works with a high level of precision.
Conclusion
Here are 5 of the most common plumbing problems that occur in the many HDB flats found in Singapore which affect innocent uses of household water supply and drainages on a daily basis. Fortunately, most common issues such as leaking taps, clogged sinks and low water pressure can easily be resolved using quick fix handyman tips. If it becomes serious, always seek help from certified plumbers – neglecting plumbing issues could lead to expensive water damages in your home, mold formations, and even vectors breeding grounds (e. g. , mosquitoes in water stagnation areas). So, stay alert and practice the necessary habits and repair the plumbing flaws as soon as possible!
