Plumbing systems help with a wide range of functions in our homes. However, ignoring important maintenance can lead to big problems down the road. 

Keep an eye out for water stains on walls and ceilings, as well as leaks in exposed pipes. Fixing these early can save money and prevent damage. 

Clogged Drains 

Just like your car, your plumbing system needs regular maintenance to function properly. This includes preventing and addressing clogged drains. You can do a few things to avoid clogs, such as throwing away food scraps in the garbage or compost bin instead of the drain, using a drain strainer in your bathtub and using only a small amount of toilet paper at a time. 

Clogs typically form over time as grease, hair, soap scum and other materials stick to the walls of your pipes. Unpleasant odors coming from your sink, tub or shower may indicate that there is a blockage somewhere nearby. Gurgling while your drains are running could also be a sign of a partial blockage. A clogged drain line can also attract household pests like drain flies, so it’s important to get it fixed quickly. If you can’t fix the clog yourself, contact a plumber for assistance. 

Leaking Pipes 

A leaky pipe may seem minor at first, but it can quickly turn into a major plumbing disaster. When left unattended, leaking pipes can cause water damage to your home and lead to mold growth. 

Leaking pipes can also be a sign of corrosion in your water supply. A licensed plumber can check your pipes for corrosion using a chemical test kit that gives off an instant reaction to show if there are metal ions in the water. 

During routine maintenance, your licensed plumber can identify any leaks and repair them right away to prevent water damage. Be sure to use a repair product that’s compatible with your pipe material, type and size. Also, turn off the water to the affected area before beginning any work. If the leak is near an electrical fixture, be sure to shut off the power to it and use a non contact electric tester before starting work. Also, be sure to clean and roughen the pipe surface before applying a leak repair product. 

Water Heater Repairs 

Your water heater is a costly appliance, and it may need repair or replacement over its lifespan. If you notice sizzling noises, a power outbreak, or a pool of water around your water heater, call a Carter professional plumber to inspect it. Sizzling sounds may indicate a build-up of scale, while a power outbreak could mean your unit is experiencing a rusted burner or other problem with its internal components. If your unit is gas-powered, it's important to test safety devices like the anode rod and pressure-relief valve regularly.

Regular maintenance including flushing the tank, cleaning components, and testing safety devices extends its lifespan and increases its efficiency. This helps you save energy and money while ensuring that you always have hot water available for showers, washing machines, and dishwashing. A plumbing expert will also help you insulate your pipes and water heater to maximize energy savings. 

Call a Plumber 

When a plumbing problem is severe enough to affect your home, it’s time to call a plumber. It would be easy to pinpoint the issue if all of your pipes were exposed, but many are concealed behind walls or underneath the house. A plumber will be able to use diagnostic tools to find the source of the problem quickly and fix it. 

Some issues may be more urgent than others, but even a minor leak can lead to mold and mildew that threatens your family’s health and safety. If you’re concerned, contact an emergency plumber in Canberra. 

While you wait for the plumber to arrive, check other areas of your home for additional problems. This can help the plumber focus on the right area and save you money by eliminating extra trips back and forth from your home. Also, clearing the area can give the plumber better access to your fixtures and make the job go more smoothly.