As a homeowner, you’re responsible for every aspect of your property, including the maintenance of major systems. Plumbing is one of the most essential systems in your home, and avoiding issues is easier than you might expect. Avoid disastrous malfunctions and costly repair bills by following these tips to prevent plumbing problems.
How to Prevent Plumbing Problems
1. Regular Plumbing Maintenance Helps Prevent Problems
Pay attention to the plumbing system and water lines in your home. At the first sign of an issue, call a professional. A thorough inspection by a professional plumber can curb problems before they escalate. A reputable plumber will inspect your pipes, fixtures, and appliances to ensure everything works correctly, and they will make repairs before a minor concern becomes a major expense.
2. Know Your Limits When Making Repairs
Homeowners can undertake certain plumbing projects, such as unclogging a drain or changing a showerhead. However, if you are unsure you’re up to the task, leave complicated plumbing work to licensed professionals. Attempting to tackle a complex job might lead to damaged components and problems that can be costly to repair.
3. Use Garbage Disposals with Care
Garbage disposals are a helpful tool in the kitchen, but they can become a problem. The disposal is not a trash can; as you use it, be mindful of what goes in the drain. Don’t put starchy, fibrous, or greasy foods into the disposal. They can lead to clogs. It’s also a good idea to run cold water through the disposal every time you use it to keep the appliance from overheating.
4. Prevent Frozen Water Lines
In the colder months, frozen pipes are a prevalent occurrence that can cause damage to your plumbing system. To prevent freezing water lines, allow taps to drip slightly to release the pressure when water freezes and expands. Insulate exposed pipes to keep them warm and use heat tape in unheated areas like crawl spaces.
5. Prevent Plumbing Problems: Don’t Pour Grease Down the Drain
Grease is one of the most common causes of clogs. When cooking with oil, don’t pour the leftovers down your sink. Instead, pour it into a separate container and dispose of it in the trash. Many homeowners will turn on the water after pouring grease down the drain, but this only worsens things because it causes the grease to solidify and block the pipes.
6. Keep an Eye out for Leaks
A leaky faucet or toilet may go unnoticed for months, leading to significant damage and higher water bills. To check for leaks, periodically inspect the plumbing fixtures, including sinks, baths, toilets, pipes, and appliance hoses. If you notice a leaking faucet or toilet, make repairs or have a professional plumber repair it before the issue worsens.
Caring for your plumbing system is one of the many tasks of being a homeowner. Following the simple tips above, you can protect your plumbing from damage and prevent costly repairs. Take preventive measures and keep your plumbing in excellent condition.
Anderson Home Inspections provides home inspection services to customers in Central Ohio. Contact us to schedule an appointment.