Your home’s plumbing system is an intricate network of pipes that bring in fresh water, heat it up and distribute it around the house. It is important to take preventative measures to ensure it works properly for years to come.
Plumbing leaks and burst pipes are a common problem that can result in extensive water damage. These issues can be prevented with routine maintenance.
1. Inspect Your Pipes Regularly
Your pipes provide the essential water and sewage flow that your home needs to function. They’re also connected to many different fixtures and appliances, making it important that they stay in good condition.
The last thing you want is for a plumbing issue to go undetected, which can lead to expensive repairs. Luckily, regular plumbing inspections can prevent this from happening.
If you’re worried that your pipes are in need of a checkup, we recommend contacting a professional plumber to conduct an inspection for you. This can help you avoid costly repairs and a big mess when it’s time to replace your pipes.
During an inspection, your plumber will look for signs of clogs or leaks in the pipes. These issues can be caused by things like food scraps, grease, hair, and more.
They’ll also check for cracks and breaks in the pipe. If there’s a crack, this can result in water seeping through the wall. This can be a serious problem for your house.
It’s also a good idea to have your plumber inspect the main sewer line, which connects your house to the city’s sewer system. If there’s a crack in this pipe, it could cause serious damage to your house.
Lastly, your plumber will inspect your septic tank and other related systems to make sure they’re functioning properly. This can help you avoid costly drain backups and sewage spills that can ruin your flooring, drywall, and other interior features.
2. Clean Your Drains Regularly
A clogged drain can be a serious issue. Not only does it make it difficult for you to use your sink, toilet or tub, but it can also lead to water damage and mold growth in your home.
Cleaning your drains regularly is a good way to keep them working properly for as long as possible. This preventative maintenance will help you to catch minor problems before they get out of hand, and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Another reason why it is so important to clean your drains regularly is to improve the lifespan of your plumbing system. If you allow hair and other materials to build up in your drain pipes, they can clog them over time, causing them to break down faster.
The same can be true if you let food waste and other debris build up in your drains over time. The odors that can result from a clogged drain can be overwhelming and unpleasant.
It is especially important to clean your bathroom and kitchen drains on a regular basis because these areas transport the most water flow and waste. When these drains aren’t cleaned properly, they can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system and sewage lines.
It is also important to check your roof’s plumbing vent regularly, as a blocked vent can lead to foul odors in your home. This problem can be easily remedied with a few simple maintenance steps. In addition, it is a good idea to insulate your pipes to prevent a problem known as ‘water freezing’ that may cause major damage to your home and plumbing. This tip can save you a lot of headaches in the long run, so give it a try!
3. Inspect Your Water Heater
Water heaters are a critical part of any plumbing system, so it’s vital to make sure they’re working properly and efficiently. Inspecting your water heater is the best way to prevent issues before they get out of hand.
A water heater operates by continually heating a tank of water until it reaches the temperature you need for your shower or laundry. Then, it sends that hot water throughout your home.
These heaters can use either gas (natural gas or propane) or electricity. What fuel your water heater relies on depends largely on the services available in your home, but both types have their own risks and safety concerns.
If a gas leak isn’t properly fixed or if your water heater doesn’t vent properly, poisonous carbon monoxide can enter your living spaces, which can be fatal. A thorough water heater inspection will check the integrity of your water heater’s gas lines, shutoff valves, and venting.
During your inspection, your plumber will look for any signs that your water heater isn’t functioning as it should. If it’s leaking, there will be puddles or dripping around the tank, while discolored tap water may indicate rust or mineral build-up.
Finally, your professional will check the water heater’s electrical connections and wiring to ensure they’re safe. If they’re not, a licensed electrician will need to make any repairs before further servicing can be done.
A yearly water heater inspection will catch any problems before they become bigger and more costly than they should be. This can save you a lot of money in the long run and ensure your water heater lasts for as long as possible.
4. Check Your Faucets and Showerheads Regularly
Regardless of your plumbing system’s age or condition, it’s crucial to check your faucets and showerheads regularly. This preventative maintenance is a great way to ensure you’re not dealing with an unexpected plumbing problem that will cost you more money down the road.
Household faucets are among the most highly touched items in your home, and if you’re not careful, they can become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. The best way to combat this is to give them a routine cleaning at least once a week, if not more frequently.
One of the most effective ways to clean your faucets is by using vinegar. This is an inexpensive and easy-to-find cleaner that can remove a lot of hard-water buildup from both the outside and inside of your fixtures.
Another popular method is to use a fresh lemon. Simply cut it in half, then press the cut side of the lemon onto the end of your faucet. The citric acid will break down mineral deposits and help your fixtures to work properly again.
Once you’re done, rinse the faucet with water and wipe it clean. This will remove any residual odors and residue left over from the process.
In addition to cleaning your faucets and showerheads, make sure you’re also checking for any signs of damage, like cracks or loose fittings. This can be a sign of more serious plumbing problems and should be addressed as soon as possible.
5. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Plumbing systems are a big part of your home, and they can cause major problems if you don’t take care of them. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent these issues and reduce the damage they can do to your home.
The best way to do this is to schedule regular plumbing inspections with a licensed plumber. These inspections will help you avoid unnecessary repairs and ensure that your plumbing system is in great shape. We highly suggest looking for a plumber in Sydney.
During these inspections, your plumber will check your pipes and other plumbing fixtures to make sure they are working properly. He or she will also check for leaks and clogs.
Your plumbing inspector will also be able to catch problems early, which means you won’t have to suffer from expensive repairs or replacements later on. They may even suggest smart leak detectors and other measures that can help you keep an eye on your system.
Another important part of a plumbing inspection is to check the drains. A clogged drain can lead to water backups and a poor smell, both of which are bad for your home.
A clogged drain can be caused by several things including grease, food waste, hair and more. It’s important to clean these clogs regularly, which can be done by using vinegar and baking soda.
If you’re noticing a lot of clogs in your sinks and showers, it’s likely time for an inspection. These clogs can be very hard to fix on your own, and you don’t want to leave them unattended for long periods of time.
The last thing you need is a massive plumbing problem that costs thousands of dollars to repair. A yearly inspection is the perfect solution to help you save money and prevent future headaches.