Plumbing Maintenance Can Prevent Future Leaks or Catastrophic Flooding
Basic maintenance on your home’s plumbing system can go a long way in preventing bigger issues from occurring. Here are some tips that will help minimize the number of times you will have to be calling a plumber.
Fix Leaks and Clogs Immediately
These small issues can quickly turn easy repairs into larger and more expensive plumbing repairs or worse, lead to water damage and mold growth.
Most small drain clogs can be cleared with a simple solution of baking soda and vinegar.
Install properly fitting drain screens and sink stoppers to prevent food, hair, and other things from going down the drain. Preventive measures are the best way to stop a clog from forming.
Your garbage disposal is not a catch-all for residual food bits and pieces. Your disposal can last many years with proper usage, however, not everything can be chewed up by the garbage disposal. Check your manufacturer’s manual for specifics. As a general rule, never put cooking grease, coffee grinds, eggshells, pasta, or rice in your disposal.
Be sure you have a plumber’s wrench in your toolbox as well as a sturdy plunger.
Your home will have a main water shut-off valve and may have outside clean-outs. Your appliances will all have shut-off valves, including your washing machine, sink, toilet, and water heater. It’s important to know where all of these are located to prevent any leak that occurs from causing more damage.
Before winter hits, spend some time inspecting the insulation around your pipes under your home, in the basement, and in the garage. Having proper insulation prevents your pipes from freezing or bursting.
Consult with your plumber about a schedule for the routine maintenance needs for your home’s HVAC system and water heater. Also, schedule a snake of your sewer lines via your home’s clean-out at least every two years to keep pipes free of clogs and buildup.
Remember
Your home’s plumbing has a tell. When you spot one of its tics, like a leaky faucet, water on the floor around a dishwasher or refrigerator, or mildew around a sink, shower, or tub, don’t hesitate to act. It’s a sign that you have some maintenance to do.