Getting regular plumbing maintenance can save you money in the long run. It also prevents plumbing problems from occurring, and it can help you avoid a lot of headaches down the road.
Understanding what can and cannot be flushed or poured down drains can also help avoid clogs. This is something your staff should be educated about, and clearly communicate to building occupants.
Check Your Water Heater
Plumbing leaks and burst pipes are expensive. Fortunately, most plumbing issues are easy for do-it-yourselfers to fix. Some fixes are simple, like replacing water heater parts or cleaning the lint trap on your washing machine. However, others require a licensed plumber to inspect and repair properly.
Many plumbing problems can be avoided by regularly examining your home’s plumbing system. This includes checking for potential concerns like slow-draining sinks, dripping faucets, wet spots near pipes and signs of corrosion or rust. In addition, you should inspect your shut-off valves and exposed pipes for leaks and wear.
You should also make sure your kitchen and bathroom drains are free from obstructions such as food scraps, hair, paper and cigarette butts. These can lead to clogged sinks and pipe blockages. Lastly, you should have your water pressure tested. Excessively high water pressure can damage your plumbing over time, so reducing this stress is important for the longevity of your pipes.
Inspect your water heater for sediment build-up, which causes corrosion and reduces efficiency and the life of your tank. Flush out your water heater to remove sediment and to increase its lifespan. To do this, turn off the power to your water heater, then disconnect the hot and cold water supply line and drain the tank. To test the heating element, set your multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the red probe to one of the screws on the water heater and the black probe to the other screw. If the reading is between 10 and 30 ohms, the heating element is functioning correctly.
Water-saving techniques not only protect the environment, but can also cut energy costs and save you money on your utility bills. You can conserve water by using low-flow appliances and fixtures, fixing leaks promptly and using rainwater for outdoor irrigation.
In addition, you can reduce the amount of water and energy your home uses by removing weeds, which compete with plants for moisture, and by limiting fertilizers, which promote excessive growth that requires more water to maintain. Finally, you can help protect your home’s plumbing system by ensuring your gutters are clear and that tree roots don’t infiltrate or damage the pipes.
Unclog Slow Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. They are not only inconvenient, but they can cause permanent damage to your pipes and waste lines if left untreated. To help prevent drain clogs, regularly remove hair, food particles and other debris from your sinks, bathtubs and showers. It is also recommended to use a drain stopper or strainer that will allow the debris to pass through and be caught, rather than flushed away. Another easy way to prevent clogs is by not flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Other things that should not be flushed include cotton balls, tissues, paper towels and feminine hygiene products.
If a clog is unavoidable, try using household items to dissolve it. For example, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, then immediately follow with hot water to clear the pipe. The vinegar will fizz and break down any remaining grease or food particles, while the baking soda will scour the inside of your pipes. If this does not work, you may need to call a plumber, and one that would know their way around things, much like the Newark plumbers.
Another way to keep your drains clean is by occasionally using a homemade drain cleaner. Mix a paste of equal parts baking soda and vinegar, and then apply it directly to the clogged drain. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, and then pour hot (but not boiling) water down the drain to flush it.
Finally, consider using a drain snake for serious clogs. A drain snake can be purchased at most hardware stores and is relatively simple to use. Simply insert the snake into your drain, and then crank the handle to break up or dislodge the clog. Make sure you wear rubber gloves while doing this to avoid getting any harsh chemicals on your hands.
Keeping up with routine maintenance on your home’s plumbing system can significantly extend its life and prevent costly repairs. Be sure to check your water meter to ensure that no one is using water in your house. If you notice that your meter is increasing, it is likely due to a water leak somewhere in the plumbing system.
Check for Leaks
A leaky pipe or fitting can lead to expensive damage in the home and may cause stains on walls and ceilings. Leaking faucets, toilets, and appliances can also waste water and contribute to high utility bills. Leaks in exposed pipes in unfinished spaces such as basements or crawl spaces can also contribute to mold and mildew. Regularly inspect all of these areas for signs of water stains and puddles. If a leak is detected, shut off the water to the fixture in question, and call in a plumber to fix the problem before it worsens.
One of the most obvious indications of a plumbing leak is an unexplained increase in your water bill. Other clues include water stains or dampness on the floors around fixtures and in the basement, and gurgling sounds from toilets. Also, be wary of a drop in your water pressure or discolored or scalding hot water.
You can prevent leaks by regularly checking the condition of your pipes, insulating any exposed plumbing in cold climates, and disconnecting outdoor hoses before winter. It’s also important to know where your water meter is located and to familiarize yourself with how to use it so you can shut off the water to individual fixtures in the event of an emergency.
Plumbing systems are a critical part of our modern lives that provide clean drinking water, sanitation, and comfort to building occupants. When properly maintained, they can help protect natural resources, save energy, and support the health and vitality of communities and neighborhoods. But many homeowners don’t think about their plumbing until a problem occurs—and by then, it could be too late. With proper maintenance, however, you can catch problems before they turn into major disasters and save money on your energy and water bills in the process. Enter your zip below to get matched with top-rated pros in your area!
Contact a Plumber
A plumbing system is a complex network of pipes, valves and devices that bring clean water into buildings and flush waste out. Properly maintained plumbing systems protect occupants’ health, conserve natural resources and support community vitality. Unchecked, however, they can create a host of problems including lowered water pressure, clogged drains, excessive energy costs and even water damage to building structures.
A plumber can help you prevent these issues with routine inspections, maintenance services and repair solutions. A plumber can also assist you in making wise choices for water usage and conservation.
When a problem occurs, such as a leaking faucet or a broken water heater, it’s important to call your local plumber right away. Choosing a plumber who is licensed and insured will ensure you’re getting someone who is trained to properly address your concerns.
Plumbing maintenance is an essential part of home ownership. In addition to catching and fixing problems before they become big, it’s also a good way to save money on your utility bills and protect the environment.
Check your faucets, showerheads and toilets for leaks, drips and discoloration on a regular basis. It’s also a good idea to look at your shut-off valves, especially outside ones, to make sure they are in working order and can be easily turned off in an emergency.
Water pressure fluctuation can put a strain on your plumbing system, leading to wear and tear. A plumber can help you set your water pressure to the optimal psi for your household needs.
Leaks can waste about 1 trillion gallons of water in America each year, and fixing them will save you money on your water bill, reduce environmental impact and help you avoid costly repair bills. A plumber can help you install low-flow fixtures and appliances to further reduce your water usage.
Many homeowners only consider contacting a plumber when they have a major problem, such as a leaking water heater or backed-up sewer. But, by following these simple steps, you can keep your plumbing in good working condition and avoid the need for an emergency call.
