If you’ve ever needed to call a plumber to fix a horrible sewage backlog or clogged drain, you understand how frustrating it may be. Most of these problems, though, may be avoided with little work.
Your home’s plumbing systems are interconnected, so a little problem in one area soon spreads to others. Here are some pointers to prevent plumbing issues:
Clean Your Drains Regularly
Keeping your drains clean is an easy way to help prevent major plumbing issues like slow or clogged pipes. Food particles, hair, fats, oils and grease (FOG), and soap scum stick to the inside of your drain lines over time and restrict water flow. Regular cleanings eliminate this buildup and limit clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers.
A monthly drain flush using baking soda and vinegar are cheap, effective, and eco-friendly to keep your home’s drains clean. You can buy this cleaning solution at most grocery stores. Mix a cup of baking soda with hot water and pour down the drain. The combination will fizz and dissolve any stuck-on debris, killing germs and removing odors.
If this doesn’t clear a stubborn clog, slowly pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain in two or three stages. Boiling water is highly effective in loosening and removing small to moderate clogs without needing any chemical-heavy products or equipment.
Fix Minor Issues Right Away
Every homeowner will experience plumbing issues at one time or another. While most of these problems will require a plumbing company with professionals to resolve, homeowners can fix some. Knowing when to grab your tool belt and when it’s best to leave the DIY job to a professional can help you save money and prevent unnecessary stress.
When it comes to home plumbing, little problems can quickly become major catastrophes if left unattended. That’s why fixing minor plumbing issues as soon as you notice them is important. This includes noticing odd smells from drains, leaky faucets and toilets, and low water pressure.
Check Your Water Heater Regularly
Lower outside temperatures in the fall might make water heaters work harder. It might be a symptom of sediment accumulation in the tank or a problem with your anode rod if you discover that yours isn’t heating water as rapidly as normal or detect a metallic taste in your water.
A leaking water heater can be an energy and money guzzler. That’s because it wastes gallons of water each time the leak is in operation, causing your utility bills to climb. It also creates pools of water where rust and mold can grow, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and insects.
You can perform many essential maintenance tasks on your water heater, but consulting a professional is always a good idea. It would help if you remembered that water heaters are high-voltage appliances, so you’ll need to shut off the power before working on it. You’ll also want to remove the access panel and safety guard before checking any electrical parts.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Like any equipment in your building, plumbing systems require regular inspections to ensure they are working properly. Plumbing inspections help reduce the risk of expensive clogs and small leaks that can cost your business money.
When you schedule a plumbing inspection, a licensed plumber will check the integrity of your pipes to ensure they are safe and in good condition. A plumbing inspection can also detect hidden leaks, saving you water and money.
Leaks are more than just a nuisance—they can lead to costly repairs and cause water damage that affects other parts of your home or business. Leaks are a sign of a larger problem, so having a plumbing inspection regularly is an excellent way to prevent sewage backups, flooding, or costly pipe repair or replacement.
