Maintaining your home’s plumbing system is essential if you’re a homeowner. Neglecting the plumbing can lead to costly repairs and water damage. To help prevent plumbing problems from arising, here are a few tips for proper maintenance.
Use Strainers in Drains to Prevent Plumbing Problems
Clogged drains are a headache, and the resulting problems can be costly if not addressed quickly. One way to prevent a potential disaster is to use strainers in your drains. Strainers catch debris that could clog the drain. Strainers come in different sizes and shapes to fit any sink or shower drain.
Regularly Inspect Pipes & Fittings
A simple visual inspection of the pipes and fittings in your home can alert you to potential problems. Check for signs of corrosion or leaks around pipe joints and look for loose connections that need tightening. In addition, inspect the pressure relief valve on your water heater every six months – if it’s leaking, replace it immediately.
Insulate Pipes Before Winter
Insulating the plumbing pipes is important to prevent leaks when temperatures drop in the winter. You may experience frozen or burst pipes without proper insulation. Protecting the plumbing is simple and cost-effective. Prepare the water lines for winter weather before it arrives.
Prevent Plumbing Problems: Clean Drains Regularly
Don’t wait until your shower is clogged; clean drains regularly using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. The combination will dissolve debris like soap scum, hair, oil, and grease that build up over time and cause clogs.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners dissolve clogs in drains, but they can cause further damage to your home’s pipes. The harsh chemicals in these products can corrode the inside of plumbing pipes, leading to leaks and other issues. The caustic chemicals are also hazardous when inhaled or ingested, meaning these products can be dangerous if used incorrectly.
Safer alternatives can keep your pipes clean and free-flowing without damaging them. Pour boiling water down a slow drain or attempt to dislodge the clog with a plunger. If these methods don’t work, use a drain snake to unclog the pipe.
Proper maintenance is key to preventing plumbing problems in your home. By regularly inspecting pipes and fittings, cleaning out drains, and running hot water through pipes periodically, you’ll extend the life of your plumbing system while avoiding costly repairs.
Libra Inspections provides home inspections for customers in Central Illinois. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule our services.