Cars and homes today are filled with all kinds of technology that help make our lives more comfortable. However, there is so much of it that when we notice small changes in performance, like a strange noise or a small leak, we are often tempted to dismiss it until the item completely breaks down. Sometimes this works out, and the issue resolves itself. But at other times these small problems turn into big headaches that cost many times more to repair than if we had just dealt with them in the first place. This short guide explains how you can tell which warning signs should never be ignored.
1. Persistent Drips or Leaks
In their relatively short history, cars have become very robust and safe pieces of machinery. However, we must not forget that they are filled with several liquids which pose a danger to humans because they are toxic, flammable, or unsafe to mix with other fluids. That is why you should not ignore it if you spot oil, brake fluid, or coolant underneath your vehicle. And it is not just that these liquids can be dangerous themselves. They are a sign that something is going wrong with your engine, like a failing gasket or a worn rubber seal. It is best to get these seen to straight away before a full breakdown ensues.
Leaks are warning signs that should also not be ignored inside your home. You might think that a constant drip from a showerhead or pipe is harmless, but if this later turns into mould or starts to cause water damage to your floors and walls, it becomes drastically more expensive to repair than a leaky showerhead. A quick web search for plumbers in your area, e.g. “leaking shower repairs Sydney,” can save you a lot of money.
2. Strange Noises
If a component in your car has become damaged over time due to wear and tear, you will typically notice that it starts making unusual noises before it completely breaks down. Squeaky fan belts are a common example, but you might also notice a grinding sound when you apply the brakes or a knocking engine. These are not necessarily signs your car is on the way out, but you should urgently take your car to a mechanic who can investigate the noises before they lead to more serious problems.
Similarly, unusual noises are usually sure signs that something is wrong at home. Rattling, whistling, or creaking pipes and fixtures should be causes for concern. This is because there could be signs of trapped air or something else blocking the pipes which could cause them to burst. Catch it early enough, and the blockage can normally be removed for a small fee.
3. Performance Issues
When it comes to your car’s performance, the time to pay attention is when you notice warning signs like slower-than-usual acceleration, or a delay between when you put your foot on the accelerator and the car speeding up. Overheating is another sign that something is wrong under the hood, too. You will be much better off getting the issue seen as soon as you can rather than waking up one day to find that your car will not start when you need to get to work. Then, it will not only be more expensive to fix, but you might lose a day’s pay too.
The same applies at home. If you notice a sudden drop (or increase) in water pressure, or the performance of other home technologies like your oven, heating, or air conditioning, it could be a sign that something major is about to go wrong. Get it looked at right away and you will likely only have to pay for a repair rather than a replacement.
4. Visible Damage
Damage you can see on your car will only get worse over time as you use it more. Cracks in the windshield or tyres will become larger, rust spots will expand, and tyre bulges will get bigger and bigger until they burst, potentially damaging other parts of the car.
Visible damage is also useful for identifying leaks around your home before they cause too much water damage. You may not be able to spot small leaks or drips on your pipes, but looking out for damp patches on the wall, peeling paint, mould, or water stains can help you see that water is seeping into unwanted places.
While some tiny variations in performance are normal for any type of technology we use, whether it is a car or a shower, the warning signs above are the ones that you really do not want to ignore if you want to save yourself a lot of trouble in the future.