The plumbing system in your home is a complex network of pipes and valves. If neglected, these systems can lead to costly water bills and emergency repairs.
A few simple maintenance tips can help your plumbing last a long time and reduce the need for costly plumbing services. Here are some of the Best ways to maintain your plumbing system:.
Clean Your Drains Regularly
All of your household waste goes down your drains, but it can become a problem if you don’t clean them regularly. Over time, soap scum, hair, food scraps, grease, and other items can build up in the pipes and cause blockages. The resulting backups can be messy and expensive, and they may even damage your piping.
Foul odors that linger in your home are another sign of an issue. These smells come from trapped sewage, mildew, and rotting debris. Eventually, the smell can permeate your entire house and lead to health issues.
If you have a clogged drain, avoid using harsh chemical cleaners. They can corrode garbage disposals and metal drainpipes. Instead, try a homemade remedy using pantry staples. Pour boiling water down the drain followed by a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar. This mixture is effective for breaking down and flushing minor clogs, and it will also eliminate foul odors.
Check for Leaks
Keeping your plumbing system in tip-top shape will prevent costly repairs and water damage. Many of the steps needed to keep your plumbing healthy are inexpensive, easy to implement and can be done by anyone.
A home plumbing system has several components that work together to deliver water and remove wastes. Pipes carry water to different areas of the house, valves control water flow and pressure and drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipes take wastewater and sewer gases away from the home.
Leaks are the most common plumbing problem and one of the main reasons people call plumbers. They can appear in your toilets, kitchen, basement or walls and can cost you thousands in water bills. Regularly inspect your home for leaks, particularly under sinks and behind toilets. Look for water stains, unusual noises and odors. Having a plumbing map of your home that clearly indicates where each pipe, valve and meter is located will also help make troubleshooting and repairs easier if a problem arises.
Install a Pressure Regulator
A pressure regulator stabilizes incoming water levels to prevent overtaxing and premature failure of pipes, faucets, showerheads, and appliances. Typically installed
downstream of the water meter near your home, these hardworking devices are simple to install and require very little maintenance when sized properly.
Over time, however, a regulator can fail due to debris accumulation or wear. If this occurs, you may notice banging noises at drains and fixtures as a shock wave hits the plumbing system. This is a telltale sign that it’s time to get your pressure regulator checked.
A plumber can easily inspect your regulator for debris, leaks, and movement. They’ll be able to validate that it’s still regulating at the correct level and identify whether an affordable rebuild kit can refresh worn components versus replacing the entire regulator. This will help you avoid expensive repair bills and costly water wastage in the long run.
Hire a Residential Leak Detection and Repair Service
A plumbing leak that goes undetected can lead to extensive damage and a wide range of problems. These include water and mold damage, compromised foundations, and drywall damage. These issues are costly to repair and pose health risks for occupants of the home.
A professional service can provide accurate diagnosis of leaks and recommend effective repair methods. Moreover, they use cutting-edge tools and techniques like infrared thermography, acoustic detection, and tracer gas methods to locate leaks without damaging the property.
Leaks in the plumbing system can waste hundreds of gallons each day, leading to high water bills and increased stress on the pipes. In addition, they can cause health risks through the growth of mold and mildew. Incorporating leak detection services into regular maintenance routines saves homeowners money, time, and energy while preventing damage to their homes. These services also help preserve the structural integrity of the home. This is particularly important for properties with old and damaged pipes. For more information, sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-geelong/blocked-drains-geelong/ has a lot of resources for plumbing maintenance and services.