How to Prevent Plumbing Problems
If you keep up with routine maintenance, major plumbing problems should be a thing of the past. Some of these include:
Watch what goes down your drains – garbage disposals cannot handle all food waste, and putting anything other than dissolvable toilet paper in the toilet can lead to clogs.
Know Your Water Shut-Off Valve
Every home or business owner should know where their water shut off valve is located and how it works. This simple step could save you from expensive and devastating damage in the event of a burst pipe or serious leak. The main water shut off valve is usually located in the basement or crawl space of your house, close to where the incoming water line enters the home. It may be located outside as well, depending on your climate and the home’s construction.
If you’re not sure where the main water shut off valve is, you can check it in three different places:
Look at your sinks, toilets and washing machines for a small lever or wheel that looks like a valve. These are typically found behind or underneath each fixture and can be used to turn the water off. These are called “emergency shut off valves” and they’re essential for containing leaks or floods. If you don’t have these in your home, it’s a good idea to install them as soon as possible.
The other place you can look for your main water shut off valve is near your water meter. Depending on your location, it may be located outside under a metal cover or in your basement or crawl space. You may have a gate valve, which is old-style and has a handle that needs to be turned a certain number of times or a ball valve, which is more modern and is easy to use with a single hand.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with your plumbing system’s layout and to take a tour of your home or office when it’s not in need of repair. That way, you’ll be able to find your water shut off valve more quickly if an emergency does arise.
It’s important to remember that when you do turn your water back on, you should go slow and only open the faucets you use regularly. Turning the water back on too quickly can damage your plumbing and lead to a large surge of water that causes pipes to burst or clog.
Clean Your Drains Regularly
Plumbing problems can be a pain and expensive to fix, but they are also preventable with some basic care. Regularly inspecting your pipes, faucets, and toilets for leaks or damage is the best way to avoid major issues in the future.
One of the most common issues we see as plumbers is clogged drains. It seems like they always happen at the most inconvenient times, and they are almost impossible to stop until a professional arrives. However, you can make sure your drains stay clear by cleaning them regularly.
You can use a snake or Zip-It tool to pull gunk-collecting hair out of the drain, and you can also mix up a simple baking soda/vinegar routine to clean and deodorize your drains. Just pour half a cup of baking soda down your drain, then follow it with a cup of vinegar. The fizzing action helps to clear and remove any stuck-on debris, and the mixture of baking soda and vinegar kills bacteria and odors.
Grease is another leading cause of clogged kitchen drains, so be sure to empty excess cooking grease into a container instead of down the sink. You can also try using a drain liner to catch any fats, oils, and grease that might otherwise end up in your pipes.
Another important prevention step is to install properly-fitting drain screens and sink stoppers to keep food, hair, and other objects from going down your pipes. Lastly, remember that a leak in one part of your plumbing system can affect other parts, so it’s essential to get any problem fixed right away.
A leaking pipe can lead to expensive water bills, and a blocked drain can cause sewage backups that are harmful to your health. By following these tips, you can ensure that your home’s plumbing stays in good condition for a long time. If you have any questions about how to maintain your plumbing or if you notice any signs of a problem, don’t hesitate to call Plumber Lansdale PA for help! Our expert plumbers are always happy to answer your questions and address any concerns.
Replace Old Pipes
Pipes that constantly experience problems can get very expensive over time. The best way to stop this from happening is to replace your old pipes with modern ones that are designed to last for decades. The first step to take is to assess your plumbing system, including the age and type of pipes, as well as their condition. You can then begin planning your pipe replacements.
Depending on the age and condition of your old pipes, you may only need to replace part of your plumbing system. However, it’s important to note that all of your plumbing systems are connected, so a small problem in one area can quickly become a large one if left untreated. This can lead to water damage, mold, or even a sewage backup.
To avoid these issues, it’s important to regularly check under sinks and around toilets for leaks. You should also be sure to keep your drains clear of things like hair, grease, and other forms of debris that can lead to clogs. It’s a good idea to use a drain cleaner regularly to help prevent these types of clogs.
If you have old galvanized steel pipes, it’s a good idea to replace them with newer materials that are less likely to suffer from corrosion and rust buildup. Leaking galvanized pipes can cause serious damage to your home and put dangerous materials in your drinking water.
Another problem caused by old pipes is low water pressure. If your home’s pipes are older, it may be a good idea to install a booster pump in order to improve the flow of water throughout your house.
If you’re in the market for new pipes, there are several different kinds of pipes that you can choose from. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) are popular choices that offer durability and longevity. They’re also easy to install and can be fitted to existing pipes. Another option is to replace the whole plumbing system in your home, which can save you money on energy bills and provide better performance for your appliances.
Hire a Professional
Plumbing is often overlooked until something goes wrong, but the truth is that many plumbing problems are easily preventable. The key is to practice regular maintenance and develop good habits. For example, it’s a good idea to regularly inspect your pipes and faucets for signs of leaks and other damage. It’s also a good idea to regularly clean your drains and toilets to prevent clogs. Finally, it’s important to invest in a water softener to help reduce the amount of minerals that build up in your pipes.
Another way to prevent plumbing problems is to make sure everyone in your home understands what can and cannot be flushed down your toilets. For example, it’s a bad idea to flush cotton swabs, paper towels, or other non-biodegradable items down the toilet. In addition, it’s a good idea to use strainers in your sinks and showers and to clean them regularly. Finally, it’s a good idea to avoid overfilling your sinks and toilets, as this can cause water overflow and damage your pipes.
It’s also a good idea to hire a professional plumber for any major plumbing issues. Plumbers have the skills and tools to properly diagnose any problem and offer permanent solutions. Plus, they have the experience to spot potential problems that could lead to serious consequences down the road.
The bottom line is that preventing plumbing problems can save you time, money, and stress. By taking the time to perform regular maintenance and instilling good plumbing habits, you can greatly reduce your risk of experiencing a major plumbing emergency.
If you keep up with routine maintenance, major plumbing problems should be a thing of the past. Some of these include: Watch what goes down your drains – garbage disposals cannot handle all food waste, and putting anything other than dissolvable toilet paper in the toilet can lead to clogs. Know Your Water Shut-Off Valve…