These simple home plumbing maintenance tips will help you keep your plumbing system running smoothly and cut down on the amount of costly repairs you’ll need.
Take Care of Your Drains
One of the most common plumbing issues is a clogged kitchen sink. You can help prevent this by taking proper care of your drains. Use a drain strainer in kitchen sinks to stop any excess food bits from washing down the drain and never pour oils, fats, or grease down the drain. When you do experience a slow or clogged drain, don’t reach for that bottle of liquid drain cleaner – these products contain corrosive chemicals that actually eat away at your pipes and cause damage. Instead, invest in a good plunger and use that to get rid of blockages. Having your drains professionally cleaned once a year is also recommended in order to keep them running smoothly and prevent clogging.
Don’t Ignore Minor Problems
That seemingly tiny leak or slightly slower drain might not seem like a big deal now, but if you avoid fixing them, they are likely to turn into bigger problems in the future that could require costly repairs and major inconveniences. When you notice something is a little off with your plumbing, addressing it right away can save you from having to deal with major inconveniences and expenses down the line.
Winterize Your Pipes
Any exposed pipes in unheated areas are at risk of freezing when the temperatures drop in the winter. When pipes freeze, they can burst and cause significant damage, resulting in costly repairs from an emergency plumber. To prevent this, make sure that any pipes located outside or in unheated areas like garages are properly insulated when winter hits. You can buy inexpensive pipe insulation materials at your local hardware store.
Regular Inspections
Set aside time to do a visual inspection of your plumbing every six months or so. Check pipes, water heaters, and fixtures for signs of damage, such as leaks and rust. This will help you notice potential problems when they are still minor enough to make them easier, quicker, and cheaper to have fixed.
Regular Maintenance Appointments
Don’t skip on your regular maintenance appointments! Have your plumbing and water heater checked and serviced once a year by a trusted professional. This helps keep everything running at its most efficient and lengthens the lifespan of your plumbing equipment. Trust the skilled team at Gideon Plumbing to provide quality service you can count on.