The Most Common Plumbing Issues in Older Homes Around Etobicoke
Is your older Etobicoke home showing signs of plumbing trouble? Don’t wait for a major leak, learn what to watch for and how New Canadian Drain & Plumbing can help.
Plumbing Challenges Unique to Older Homes in Etobicoke
Older homes in Etobicoke offer charm and character, but many also hide a ticking time bomb behind their walls, outdated plumbing systems. From rusted pipes to chronically low water pressure, these hidden issues can cause everything from minor annoyances to costly damage if left unchecked. Understanding the common plumbing problems in old houses can help homeowners stay ahead of repairs and preserve the value of their property.
Old Pipes, New Problems
One of the most widespread issues in Etobicoke’s older homes is the material of the plumbing pipes themselves. Many homes built before the 1970s used galvanized steel or cast iron pipes. Over time, these materials corrode, resulting in rusted pipes and reduced water pressure.
Corrosion not only restricts water flow but also increases the risk of leaks and bursts. In some cases, mineral deposits inside old pipes can cause discoloured water and metallic tastes. If you’re noticing these signs, it could mean your pipes are reaching the end of their lifespan.
Pro Tip: A camera inspection by a licensed plumber in Etobicoke can identify if your pipes need replacing.
Low Water Pressure: More Than Just a Nuisance
Low water pressure is often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, but in older homes, it’s a warning sign of more serious plumbing issues. Rusted pipes, sediment buildup, or outdated fixtures could be restricting the flow of water. In some cases, low pressure indicates a potential leak or cracked pipe that’s losing water underground.
Don’t ignore this symptom, low water pressure can escalate into costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Learn why sewer backups are common in the area and how to prevent them in this related guide.
Leaky Fixtures and Failing Seals
Dripping faucets, leaky showerheads, or running toilets may not seem like a big deal, but in older homes, these are more than annoyances, they’re signals of aging plumbing. Worn-out washers, loose connections, or degraded valve seats are common in vintage fixtures.
Besides wasting water, these leaks can significantly increase your water bill. If you’re dealing with constant dripping or running water, it may be time to replace the fixtures or investigate a more serious underlying problem.
Clogged or Slow Drains
Plumbing systems in older Etobicoke homes often suffer from recurring drain issues. Years of grease, hair, soap scum, and even tree root intrusion can lead to slow or fully blocked drains.
Clay sewer lines and cast-iron drain pipes, commonly found in older homes, are more susceptible to cracks and root invasion. Regular drain cleaning and camera inspections can help you avoid a plumbing emergency.
Outdated Plumbing Layouts
Many Etobicoke homes have undergone renovations over the decades, but not all of those updates adhered to modern plumbing codes. Older layouts may feature inefficient pipe routing, poor ventilation, or mismatched materials, all of which can lead to recurring problems or even health hazards, such as sewer gas leaks.
These outdated plumbing symptoms often require more than a quick fix. A full system assessment by a qualified Etobicoke plumber can identify code violations and design flaws that may be impacting your plumbing’s performance.
Lead or Polybutylene Pipes
Homes built before the mid-20th century may still have lead supply lines, especially those connected to the municipal water supply. Lead pipes pose serious health risks and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, homes updated in the 1980s or 1990s may contain polybutylene piping, a plastic material known to degrade and fail over time. If your home falls into either of these categories, it’s time for an inspection and likely a pipe replacement.
Water Heater Woes
Older plumbing systems often rely on aging water heaters that may struggle to meet modern demand. Signs of trouble include fluctuating water temperatures, rusty water, and strange noises from the tank. Sediment buildup is a common issue that reduces efficiency and shortens the unit’s lifespan.
A licensed Etobicoke plumber can help assess whether repair or replacement is the better long-term investment.
Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Disaster
If your Etobicoke home is more than 30 years old and you’re seeing any of the outdated plumbing symptoms mentioned above, it’s time to take action. At New Canadian Drain & Plumbing, we specialize in resolving the unique plumbing issues in older homes. Whether it’s inspecting rusted pipes, fixing low water pressure, or replacing outdated systems, our expert team is here to help.
Call us today for a comprehensive plumbing assessment and peace of mind.
Request your free estimate now