Plumbing brings fresh water into your home and distributes it throughout the house. When fresh water and sanitation are so easy to come by, we often take them for granted unless something goes wrong.
Fortunately, taking care of your plumbing and preventing common problems isn't that difficult.
The following tips will help prevent headaches and inconveniences of unexpected plumbing problems.
Inspect Your Plumbing System Regularly
Most homeowners don't give a second thought to their plumbing system if it functions properly. However, routine plumbing inspections are necessary to maintain a smooth plumbing system. You will also be able to catch any potential problems before they become serious.
While some homeowners inspect themselves, professional plumbers are usually the best choice. Besides providing a report on the condition of your entire plumbing system, a plumber can also provide recommendations for repairs and preventative maintenance plans. As a result, you can save yourself a lot of money and headaches in the long run.
Regarding how often you should get plumbing inspections, the recommended frequency is every two years.
Invest in Regular Drain Cleaning
The buildup of dirt, hair, grease, and other debris in drains can cause clogs over time. Having clogged drains can result in not only sewer water backing up into your home but also flooding. Furthermore, blocked drains can create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, which can cause dangerous illnesses.
The process of drain cleaning keeps your drains clear and working properly by removing all the debris inside.
In some cases, DIY tools and techniques can help you fix your kitchen and bathroom clogs. However, doing the cleaning yourself can exacerbate the problem. Therefore, you need a licensed plumber with professional equipment.
Do your best to clean your drains once a year, even if you don't notice any particular signs of clogs. Drain cleaning as a routine will prevent high water pressure problems, reduce repairs, and extend the life of your plumbing.
Understand What Can't Go Down Drains
Always be selective about what you flush down the drain. You can prevent many plumbing problems by being mindful of your drain and flushing habits.
Dispose of things such as grease, coffee grounds, and prescription medications; otherwise, you'll often end up with clogged pipes.
Your toilet isn't a garbage can either. If you flush anything other than toilet paper, you're likely to create a system backup and have to repair your plumbing sooner. Even flushable wipes shouldn't go into your plumbing.
Basically, you shouldn't flush anything that isn't biodegradable.
Know the Location of Shutoff Valves
Water must pass through your water main to enter your home fixtures. In most homes, the water main is in the basement near the water heater.
You will find the shutoff valve on the water main. Typically, the shutoff valve for the water main is a lever or a wheel. Closing the valve will completely stop water from entering your home.
If you need to do a major plumbing project or if you have a plumbing emergency, you only need to shut off the valve to prevent damage to your property.
Use Quality Plumbing Fixtures and Materials
Generally speaking, plumbing fixtures are devices that deliver and remove water from your home. Sinks, toilets, and showers are among the fixtures.
A quality fixture with durable material can withstand years of use. In other words, the fixtures are less prone to breaking down.
Whether you install new plumbing or repair a current system, use high-quality materials and fixtures.
Protecting your plumbing can be as simple as taking a few basic steps. These tips will help you avoid major problems and emergencies. However, despite your best efforts, you may run into a problem in the future. In such a case, call the professionals immediately.
Get in touch with us if you need help with a plumbing emergency or if you'd like more plumbing tips.
Additional Service Areas
Omaha, NE
La Vista, NE
Bellevue, NE