Top 3 Plumbing Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
A well-functioning plumbing system is essential for a safe and comfortable living environment. However, many homeowners are not aware of simple maintenance tips that could help prevent common plumbing problems and costly repairs.
Knowing where your home’s main water shut-off valve is located can save you from significant water damage in the event of a major leak or pipe burst. Familiarize yourself with the location and make sure all household members know how to turn it off.
1. Regular Inspections
Like almost any product that you use in your home, your plumbing system requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With some basic tips, such as knowing where the main water valve is, preventing clogs, using a plunger correctly, maintaining your water heater, insulating pipes in cold areas, and scheduling regular inspections, you can avoid most common problems and emergency situations.
One of the most important things homeowners can do to prevent plumbing problems is to schedule regular inspections by a professional plumber. This will allow them to catch small issues before they escalate into larger and more costly problems. For example, a slow leak in a pipe that goes undetected can cause water damage and create an environment where harmful mold can thrive. If ignored, the problem may even lead to a collapsed pipe.
During a typical plumbing inspection, a technician will start by checking the water meter to identify any unexplained increases in usage. They will also check for signs of leaks around faucets, toilets, and behind appliances. Additionally, they will test the water pressure to make sure it’s within the recommended range.
Leaky faucets, toilets, and showerheads can waste a lot of water, and they can also cause damage to the interior walls and flooring. Likewise, high water pressure can strain pipes and fixtures and lead to premature wear and tear. A professional plumber will be able to fix these issues before they become bigger problems.
Another important tip is to check hose connections regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or bulging. If you notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to replace the hoses. You should also check for rust and corrosion on metal pipes, as well as tightness in connections.
Besides plumbing, a routine inspection can also include checking for signs of pest infestation or mold growth. In addition, a professional plumber can assess the condition of your appliances and determine whether they need replacement or repair. This can help you save money on energy costs and extend the lifespan of your appliances.
2. Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues and can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Preventing clogged drains starts with the basics: regularly cleaning and maintaining all drains, including showers, sinks, tubs, and toilets. Food scraps, grease, coffee grounds, hair, and soap scum can build up over time and clog pipes if not addressed. Using a drain strainer in your kitchen sink and regularly cleaning the drains can help prevent clogs. It’s also important to only flush toilet paper and human waste, not wipes, diapers, or sanitary products, as these can solidify in the pipes and cause major blockages. Lastly, be sure to check your water pressure periodically to identify any problems before they become too serious. High water pressure can strain pipes and cause leaks, while low pressure may indicate a problem with your water supply or the size of your pipes.
Another preventive measure is to invest in a water softener if your home uses hard water. This can help reduce the amount of mineral buildup in your pipes and improve the lifespan of your appliances. Also, avoid over-tightening plumbing connections – that extra twist could strip the threads and cause a leak.
Having your drains professionally cleaned can also be a great preventative measure against clogs and more severe pipe problems. It’s recommended to have your drains cleaned every two years, though the frequency may vary based on usage and household composition.
For the best results, hire a professional plumber to clean your drains on a regular basis. They can use specialized tools to remove even the most stubborn clogs without damaging your pipes or fixtures. Additionally, a professional can help you understand the best ways to maintain your drains for maximum efficiency. This can help you save money in the long run by preventing expensive repairs and water wastage. Plus, it will give you peace of mind knowing that your home’s plumbing is working as it should.
3. Water Heaters
Dripping faucets waste water and can damage your home’s pipes and fixtures. Fixing a leaky faucet can prevent the damage and save you money in energy costs. To keep your pipes in good shape, inspect them regularly and perform basic maintenance tasks like draining the anode rod on gas or electric water heaters to remove corrosion and sediment buildup.
Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located can help you avoid significant water damage in the event of a pipe burst or major leak. Familiarize yourself with its location and make sure that everyone in your household knows how to turn it off.
Checking your water meter can also identify leaks. Watch the meter over time and notice whether its readings change. This can indicate the presence of a water leak and necessitate the services of a plumber.
High water pressure can strain your plumbing and cause leaks, especially in older homes with aging pipes. Use a water pressure gauge to test your home’s water pressure and ensure that it is within the recommended range of 40-60 psi.
Leaking and corroded plumbing fixtures are not only an eyesore, but they can damage your home’s structure and lead to costly repairs. To prevent these problems, regularly inspect your plumbing fixtures and replace worn-out washers and seals. To further extend the life of your plumbing system, flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and corrosion. You can also just call one of the many plumbers in Mesquite.
Your pipes can also be damaged by cold weather, posing an increased risk of freezing and bursting. To prevent this, insulate all exposed pipes during the winter, especially those in unheated areas such as basements and garages.
Nearly 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted each year by American households due to leaky pipes. These costly problems can be prevented with routine maintenance and preventative measures like installing drain screens in your kitchen and bathroom to catch hair, soap scum, and other debris that may block the drain. Finally, avoid pouring grease and oil down the drain as they can solidify and cause serious clogs. Instead, dispose of them properly in a container like an old coffee can.
4. Frozen Pipes
Pipes frozen in winter can burst and cause significant water damage. If your home has pipes located in unheated areas (such as basements and crawl spaces), they’re especially susceptible to freezing temperatures. Pipes that lead from outdoor hose bibs and swimming pool supply lines are also at risk. These pipes should be insulated to protect against cold weather. Insulation is available at most hardware and home improvement stores, and it’s easy to do.
The most obvious sign that a pipe has frozen is when you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out. It’s important to act quickly when you notice this sign, so that the affected pipe has a better chance of being thawed before it has a chance to expand and cause damage to your plumbing system.
Frozen pipes are most often caused by drafts and cold air infiltration around the exterior walls of your home, or at the openings where plumbing lines enter or exit the house. Ensure there are no gaps or cracks in these areas of your home, and use caulk or weather stripping to seal them. Additionally, be sure to keep your heat set at a warm enough temperature in winter, even when you’re away from the home for extended periods of time.
Another common cause of frozen pipes is not draining kitchen and bathroom sinks properly. Grease, oil, and other non-drainable materials can build up over time in your home’s drains and make them more prone to freezing. Make sure to dispose of cooking grease and oils in a trash can rather than pouring them down the drain, and only flush toilets when necessary.
In addition to ensuring your home’s pipes are properly insulated, you can further minimize the risk of them freezing by running water through them, even at a trickle. This will help keep them from freezing and provide some heating to the pipes, while also allowing you to lower your water bills. Finally, be sure to familiarize yourself with the location of your home’s main water shut off valve, and know how to quickly shut it off in an emergency.
