How to Fix Common Plumbing Issues in a Mobile Home in Arizona

Fix Your Plumbing in a Mobile Home in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide

As a mobile homeowner in Arizona, there are dozens of benefits to enjoy, including affordability and flexibility. However, mobile homes come with their share of maintenance needs, like any home. One of the more common issues involves plumbing. This article will guide you through common plumbing issues in mobile homes and how you can fix these issues yourself.

Understanding Mobile Home Plumbing

Before we dive into the details, it’s crucial to understand how mobile home plumbing works. Plumbing in a mobile home is somewhat different from that of a site-built home due to the structure and construction process of manufactured homes.

Mobile home plumbing systems typically consist of three parts: the water supply system, the drainage system, and the venting system. You can usually find the plumbing underneath the home, within the belly area.

A single-wide mobile home plumbing diagram will show that the pipes run from the fixtures (like sinks, showers, and toilets) down to the main waterline, with the water supply lines usually being smaller than the drainage pipes. The plumbing system may be a bit more complex in a double-wide manufactured home plumbing diagram, as it often features a cross-over system to ensure water flows properly throughout the home.

Common Mobile Home Plumbing Problems and Solutions

With a basic understanding of mobile home plumbing, let’s now delve into some common problems and how you can fix them.

Leaks

Leaks are a common plumbing problem in manufactured homes. Leaks can occur due to the age of the plumbing fittings, poor initial installation, or even physical damage from the movement of the house.

Identifying a leak is usually easy; you might notice water pooling under your home or an increase in your water bill. Once you’ve located the leak, the next step is to fix it. You’ll need mobile home plumbing parts like new pipes or fittings, a pipe cutter, and possibly some cement or sealant. To repair a leak, first, turn off your water supply. Next, cut out the damaged part of the pipe and replace it with a new piece, securing it with appropriate fittings. Ensure all connections are tight and secure before turning the water back on.

Clogs

Clogs are another common issue that can affect the plumbing in mobile homes. Clogs can occur in any part of the plumbing system, and things like food debris, hair, or even tree roots invading your pipes can cause them.

You might need a plunger, a plumber’s snake, or a hand auger to fix a clog. For more challenging clogs, a power auger might be necessary. Remember, if the clog is stubborn, it’s best to call a professional to avoid damaging your pipes.

Freezing Pipes

Although freezing temperatures are not as common in Arizona, they can occur in the colder months or at higher altitudes. When this happens, the water in your pipes can freeze, causing them to burst.

To fix a frozen pipe, you first need to locate it. Look for pipes that are bulging or have frost on them. Once you’ve found the frozen pipe, you can use a hairdryer or a heat lamp to slowly thaw the pipe. To prevent pipes from freezing in the future, consider insulating them or using heat tape. Remember that prevention is the best way to avoid damage from freezing pipes.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be due to various issues, including clogged pipes or aerators or a problem with the water supply line. If you notice low water pressure, check your aerators first — these are the small screens at the end of your faucets. If they are clogged, you can clean them or replace them.

If the aerators are not the issue, you may need to inspect your pipes for clogs or leaks. Sometimes, the problem may be with the water supply line, and you might need to contact your water supply company.

Sewer Gas Smell

Occasionally, manufactured homeowners might notice a sewer gas smell. This smell can be due to dry p-traps, which are designed to keep a small amount of water to prevent sewer gases from coming back up into the home. If you don’t use a fixture regularly, the water can evaporate, allowing the gas to enter your home.

Simply flushing toilets and running water down sinks can solve this issue. If the smell persists, you may have a broken seal or a cracked vent pipe, which would require repair or replacement.

Water Heater Issues

Water heater problems frequently happen in manufactured homes, ranging from insufficient hot water to leaks or unusual noises. You can usually trace the root of these issues back to thermostat malfunctions, sediment build-up in the tank, or simple wear and tear over time.

If you lack hot water, check the temperature setting, and consider whether a faulty heating element may be the culprit. For leaks, inspect the heater for any visible cracks or damage, as an unrepaired leak can lead to significant water damage. Unusual noises such as popping or hissing often indicate sediment build-up, which you can fix by draining and flushing the tank. However, persistent noises may mean you have a larger problem requiring professional assistance.

When to Call a Professional

While homeowners can fix many common mobile home plumbing issues, knowing when to call a professional is crucial. Plumbing repairs can quickly become complex, and attempting to fix something beyond your skill level can lead to more damage and more expensive repairs. If you’re dealing with persistent leaks, severe clogs, or other complex issues, hiring a professional plumber with experience with mobile home plumbing is best.

Make Your Mobile Home Worries Disappear with Phoenix Mobile Homes

Your mobile home’s plumbing doesn’t have to be a never-ending concern. If your home has ongoing issues or if you’re ready to move on without the stress of repairs, Phoenix Mobile Homes is ready to help.

We provide cash offers on mobile homes in any condition, meaning you can bypass the daunting repair tasks and progress with your life. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote. Let Phoenix Mobile Homes be your partner in crafting an easy, hassle-free solution for your mobile home needs. Let’s create a stress-free tomorrow together.