*This is a collaborative post.
Moving into an older house can be an absolute pleasure. Packed with history and oozing with character, you really get the feeling that these kinds of homes have been lived in, making it a lot easier to settle in and feel properly comfortable.
Atmosphere aside, however, there can be some practical issues with living in these older structures. Here, we take a look at one common issue in particular – plumbing – exploring some of the specific problems that are likely to pop up.
Bad water pressure
One of the most common (and annoying) plumbing problems in older homes is low water pressure. While it might be just about ok if only one tap is being used, if someone is washing up while someone else is showering, the effect can be nothing short of infuriating.
Unfortunately, there isn’t just one cause behind water pressure issues. It could be anything, from an old and worn-out water pump to seriously blocked water pipes. To get to the bottom of the issue and sort it out, you’ll likely need to get a plumber from somewhere like Able Plumbers to come and check out your plumbing system.
Inefficient boilers
Older, inefficient boilers can be another common issue in some older homes. Boiler technologies are constantly evolving, and the increases in efficiency that we’ve seen in recent decades are quite impressive.
While in most buildings, the boiler is replaced every 20 years or so, you do come across cases where a truly ancient option is still somehow in use. If you’re not sure what boiler you have installed in your home, it’s worth asking your plumber about whether it’s time for an upgrade next time they come over to service it.
Easily blocked pipes
There are a range of different issues that can arise with pipes in older homes. Deposits can start to slowly build up, resulting in frequent blockages and water pressure problems. While these can be tackled to a certain extent with chemicals and blockage rods, at a certain point, you may need to get the pipes replaced.
Pipes last between 50-100 years in most cases, so this won’t be a regular job that needs doing. When it does need to be done, however, it can end up being a pretty big job.
Leaking taps and joints
Over time, taps and other joints in your plumbing system can start to develop leaks. Not only are these just annoying, but they can end up being a monumental waste of water, and can result in serious structural damage if they’re not contained in a sink or other water container.
You don’t need to get your taps and joints upgraded all at once, but it is worth doing it at some point. Not only will it increase the efficiency of your water usage, but it will also end up saving you money in the long run!
Getting these common issues sorted out is a bit of a hassle, but if you’re in love with your home, it’s absolutely worth it. Not only is it practically beneficial, but it will also ultimately increase the value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment all around.
Yep! I think we have had all these things since we have lived here. The water pressure is still a problem but we have fixed the rest. Old houses are great apart from the problems which come with them. x
I grew up in an older house, and I can remember my parents regularly having to hire poles to try and unblock the drains!
There have been times when I was on first-name terms with plumbers due to the need for frequent repair visits. One of them told me that plumbing problems seem to follow people around when they move house. It certainly felt like that at the time.
I like the idea of changing taps to maximise water efficiency. Newer ones always look much more stylish, too.
I think we have every single one of these issues! Apart from boiler issues as luckily ours was replaced a couple of years ago.