Your plumbing system is a network of pipes that delivers hot and cold water and eliminates waste. It’s a big job, and neglecting it can lead to expensive repairs.
Preventative maintenance is a lot cheaper than dealing with plumbing disasters. This guide contains key strategies for avoiding blockages, early leak detection, water heater upkeep, drain care, and more.
Check Your Water Meter
Water meters are an important tool in tracking household water usage. Regularly checking your meter can help you identify possible leaks or other problems that may be raising your water bill. Look for a small black or red triangle or star on your meter (leak detector) that moves when there is low flow typically associated with a leak. Before you check your meter, make sure that no one is using any water in the home including washing machines, showers, and ice makers. Open the meter box and carefully remove the concrete cover. Make sure to replace the polystyrene plug before putting the cover back on.
With all of the water-using devices in your home turned off, observe the sweep hand and low flow indicator on your meter for 15 minutes. If the arrow on the display continues to move, there is a leak somewhere in your home's plumbing or the Service Line that connects your house to the public water main.
Clean Your Drains
Clogged drains are more than a nuisance; they can cause costly damages to your home and if not addressed quickly, can lead to severe plumbing problems.
Regularly cleaning your drains is an important part of preventative maintenance and is easy to do at home. All it takes is adding a drain cleaner every now and then to keep your drains clean and clog-free.
Be sure to not use household chemicals such as bleach, as they can damage pipes and create dangerous fumes if they linger in your drains. Pouring a cup of salt and half a cup of boiling water down the drain once a week can also help clear away grease, soap scum, and other debris.
Foul odors coming from your drains can indicate a serious issue with your plumbing system and is a sign it needs professional attention. Reimer’s expert drain cleaning service can ensure your home’s drainage system is clean and odor-free.
Install a Water Heater
Your plumbing system is working hard to deliver water and eliminate waste from your home, so it needs a little TLC. Giving your plumbing system the attention it needs can help prolong its life and prevent costly repairs.
Small household leaks add up to gallons of water lost every day. It's important to fix
leaking faucets promptly.
Drains clogged with hair, food scraps and other debris can lead to unpleasant smells and expensive repairs. To keep your drains running smoothly, install clear, easy-to use drain covers in showers and kitchen sinks.
It's also a good idea to drain your water heater on a regular basis. This helps remove sediment and improves your water heater's efficiency. During the winter, protect your pipes by using pipe insulation and heat tape. And outside, check your yard for any lush or low areas that could indicate a sewage leak. This is a great time to have your septic tank inspected. Professional plumbers have the resources to help. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-canberra/blocked-drains-canberra/ have a lot of professional plumbing experts who can help.
Call a Plumber
Plumbing is a vital part of your home or business that you often don’t think about until there is an issue. With regular inspections, you can catch problems before they become major issues that lead to costly repairs.
While it is possible to make minor repairs yourself, some situations require the help of a professional. It is always best to consult with a plumber before taking matters into your own hands, especially during an emergency like a burst pipe or severe water damage.
Knowing where your home’s main water valve is located can save you time and money in the event of a plumbing emergency, as it will allow you to shut off your water before the problem gets worse. It is also a good idea to keep a list of all the things you notice, including noises, smells, and changes in water pressure and flow so that you can relay this information to your plumber.