If you’re a homeowner, you’re probably all too familiar with the stress that can come along with plumbing issues. A leaky sink, a toilet that won’t flush, or a burst or frozen pipe can quickly turn into an expensive inconvenience. But, with simple preventative maintenance, you can avoid many of these common problems and keep your plumbing system in excellent shape.
SHOULD I SCHEDULE REGULAR MAINTENANCE?
Setting up a regular maintenance schedule is one of the best things you can do for your plumbing system. Regular maintenance can help you catch small problems before they turn into big ones, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in the process.
How Can Annual Flushes Improve My Water Heater’s Performance?
A maintenance task that can significantly enhance the performance and lifespan of your unit is a water heater flush. Over time, sediment and mineral deposits build up inside of the tank, reducing heat generation and overall efficiency. This buildup not only forces your heater to work harder, potentially leading to higher energy bills, but it can also cause future damage. Schedule an annual water heater flush and be certain that your unit is operating at peak efficiency. A tank also improves water quality, keeping your water clear, safe, and free from contaminants.
How Can I Prevent Damage by Checking for Leaks?
The plumbing appliances in your home are connected to your main water line. Because of this, they can cause serious damage if they start leaking. Take a look around your refrigerator, washing machine, and water heater to inspect for any signs of leaks or standing water.
What Items Should I Avoid Flushing?
Toilets are designed to handle toilet paper and human waste only. Flushing anything else or items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, food products, or grease will cause blockages. These clogs can significantly damage your plumbing system.
How Does Water Pressure Impact My Plumbing?
Too high or too low water pressure can cause a range of problems, from slow draining sinks and showers to burst pipes. Check your water pressure using a pressure gauge and adjust it as it may need. Installing a water pressure regulator can also help you keep a consistent water level and prevent further damage to your pipes.
Should I Inspect My Faucets and Shower Heads?
Leaky shower heads and faucets can waste a lot of water and lead to higher utility bills. It’s important to regularly check your fixtures for signs of leakage, like corroded valve seats, worn-out washers, and aged O-rings.
How Can I Keep My Drains Clean?
It is important to know that chemical drain cleaners like Drano and Instant Power can do more harm than good. While they may be a quick and convenient solution, using them runs the risk of seriously damaging your pipes and harming the environment. Always consider using drain snakes or safe and effective bio-cleaners to clear stoppages and keep your drains running smoothly.
Why Are Sewer Drain Inspections Important?
Your drains need regular maintenance to prevent clogs from building up. Get a professional inspection of your sewer line scheduled at least once a year to find and address any potential issues before they become expensive problems.
How Do I Prevent Frozen Fixtures?
Before the freeze of the winter sets in, always drain, insulate, and shut off outdoor hoses, faucets, and sprinklers to prevent frozen pipes that can cause serious damage and expensive repairs.
When Should I Call a Professional?
While tips like these can help you maintain your plumbing system and prevent many common problems, some issues are best left to the professionals! If you think you may not be able to handle a plumbing issue on your own, don’t hesitate to call a licensed plumber for help.