The Ultimate Guide To Home Plumbing Maintenance

Many homeowners pay little to no attention to their plumbing systems unless there is a leak or a clog. However, investing time and effort in home plumbing maintenance can help prevent emergency repairs and save money in the long run. This post will provide you with some helpful tips and tricks to keep your plumbing system in top shape.

Regular Inspections:

Performing regular inspections on your plumbing system is of utmost importance to detect any damage or leaks. Proactively monitoring and maintaining your plumbing is critical not only to prevent expensive repairs but also to ensure optimal functionality. Inspect pipes, faucets, and showerheads for apparent indications of damage like rust or corrosion. Check under sinks for leaks from pipes, fittings, or the base of the fixture. Finally, check the water meter reading before and after a period of time, say two hours, when no water is being used in the house. If the readings do not match, there could be an undetected leak.

Keep Drains Clean:

Avoid pouring grease, fat, oils, or food waste down the sink, as they can cause blocked drains. Use a drain guard to prevent hair and debris from getting into the pipes. To ensure effective disposal of food debris, it is recommended to run cold water for a couple of seconds both before and after using a garbage disposal. This simple practice promotes the efficient flushing away of residue, maintaining the functionality and cleanliness of the system.

Monitor Water Pressure:

Excessive water pressure has the potential to inflict harm on pipes, fittings, and appliances. Use a pressure gauge to measure the water pressure. If the pressure is too low, you may need to clean out the aerator or consider replacing the main water shut-off valve.

Maintain Water Heater:

Regular maintenance of your water heater can help to increase its lifespan and decrease energy bills. Drain a few quarts of water from the tank to remove sediment buildup. Check the relief valve by lifting the lever and listening for a hissing sound, which indicates the valve is working.

Hire a Professional:

Some maintenance tasks, such as repairing or replacing pipes and fixtures, should be left to a professional plumber. A professional plumber has the necessary skills and equipment to diagnose and repair complex plumbing issues that require specialized knowledge.

Home plumbing maintenance is essential for the smooth functioning of a plumbing system. Contact a plumber for more information about home plumbing maintenance.