Plumbing systems must be maintained just as other systems in the home need regular maintenance. This system remains hidden in cabinets, under floors, and behind walls. As a result, many people forget to perform this maintenance. When they can no longer bathe, cook, do laundry, or wash dishes, they quickly discover how vital it is.
The Importance of Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Regular maintenance of residential plumbing systems costs less than repairs. Nobody wants to be mid-shower only to find they have no hot water or be washing dishes, only to have the water stop suddenly. Any leak in the system can lead to disaster, as water can do significant damage to a home in a short period. Maintaining the system ensures problems are called quickly so they can be addressed before they escalate.
Leak Checks
Homeowners should regularly check the plumbing system for leaks because a small leak can waste gallons of water and lead to high water bills. Imagine opening the water bill only to find thousands of gallons of water have been lost to a running toilet that the family did not catch quickly. Sadly, this happens more than people realize. If there is a sudden loss in water pressure or the water bill increases drastically one month, there is likely a hidden leak in the home. If the leak cannot be found, call a plumber for help. Leaks can lead to structural damage to the house and attract pests.
Slow Moving Drains
Slow-moving drains are often a sign that there is grease, soap scum, or hair on the drain walls. Homeowners need to act quickly before the drain becomes completely blocked. Baking soda and vinegar may remove some blockages, but they cannot address any blockages deep in the drain. A professional plumber will be needed to locate and remove this clog or blockage. Call them before water begins backing up into the home.
Take Care With Drains
It’s easy to send things down the drain and hope they wash away. These drains are narrow and can easily become clogged with hair, soap, grease, and food particles. Even the wrong type of toilet paper or using too much toilet paper can lead to blocked drains. Invest in mesh drain covers for drains in the kitchen and bathroom to prevent items from going down unintentionally. Limit the use of toilet paper to only what is necessary, and only put toilet paper and human waste into the drains. Other items can damage the pipes and clog them. This includes items such as facial tissue and paper towels.
Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
When a person discovers they have a plumbing system issue, they may head straight to the store to pick up a chemical drain cleaner. These products are rarely able to clear a clog completely; they may create a pathway for water and waste to move through the pipes, but the problem will recur quickly. Furthermore, the chemicals found in these drain cleaners are caustic and can harm people and the pipes.
Insulate the Pipes
People often assume frozen pipes are only a problem for those who live in cold climates. Plumbing systems in homes located in warm climates are at greater risk of problems because homeowners often overlook the need to insulate pipes in case temperatures drop below zero. Pipes and crawl spaces aren’t the only ones that need to be insulated, either. Basements, attics, and other unheated areas in the home may have plumbing system components that are at high risk of freezing. Any exposed pipes should be covered with pipe insulation sleeves to reduce the risk of problems.
If a plumbing problem arises, homeowners may try to fix it themselves. It’s best to work with a licensed plumber to ensure the issue is fixed quickly and correctly the first time. Doing so prevents costly water damage and provides the homeowner with peace of mind. They know the system will work as intended when they need it.
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