A couple painting and fixing up a bare white room.

As a homeowner, it’s important for you to never ignore the warning signs of a potential problem. By catching issues early, you can prevent an even bigger headache in the long run. Here are five signs your home may need repair.

Slow Drains

Always take note of a slow drain. There’s definitely a clog developing in your pipes. Hair, grease, food, and soap can also cause a blockage. Although you may be tempted to use store-bought drain cleaners, steer clear of these products at all costs. They contain toxic ingredients, which can gradually wear out your plumbing. With the use of a hydro jetter, a plumber can safely blast away built-up gunk.

Stinky Smell

If a musty odor starts to linger in and around your home, this is a definite red flag. There’s a good chance your sewer line has cracked. A tree root may have invaded the underground pipe, thus causing it to spring a leak. This is a problem that needs to be repaired as soon as possible. Not only can a busted sewer line attract troublesome pests, but it also puts your home at risk of sustaining water damage.

Hollow-Sounding Floors

A hollow-sounding floor tends to be bad news. Termites may have started to wreak havoc. These insects are responsible for causing millions of dollars in structural damage to homes and businesses. This is why experts recommend getting an annual termite inspection. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of money. Because subterranean termites build nests in the ground, they often go completely unnoticed for months.

Cold Spots

When temperatures start to drop during the winter, you and your family will be spending more time indoors. Cold spots in your home point to an underlying problem. HVAC repair is likely needed. Faulty air ducts could be to blame. Holes and cracks in the ducts can allow more than 30 percent of the unit’s heat to escape. However, don’t rule out a dirty air filter as being the problem.

Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

A circuit breaker is designed to shut off your power when the electrical load is too high. It’s a built-in safety feature. To be on the safe side, you should call in a licensed electrician. He may need to update home’s wiring to add additional circuits.

If you suspect a home repair is needed, don’t wait to take action. You definitely don’t want things to get worse. While some issues can be prevented with routine maintenance, others are simply beyond your control.