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Common Plumbing Tips for All Homeowners
One of the most important amenities to have in your home is a functioning plumbing system. Without it, it would be nearly impossible to accomplish many tasks — such as regular bathing. That said, your home’s plumbing system should be treated as a necessity, not a luxury.
If you’d like to reduce the possibility of plumbing problems, as well as cut back on your overall water waste, here are some common plumbing tips to help.
Avoid the Use of Chemical Drain Cleaners
Sure, it’s easier said than done — especially since they’re a convenient, quick fix — but we strongly recommend you stop relying on chemical drain cleaners to help clear obstructions. As it turns out, many “fan-favorite” drain cleaners are caustic — meaning they heat up once they come in contact with whatever is lodged in your drain.
While that might seem like a good thing, it can be rather detrimental to your plumbing pipes over time. For instance, with continued use in a PVC pipe or a metal pipe that has seen better days, the caustic solution can melt the pipe and cause a leak, leading to the inevitable.
To help prevent this from happening, consider relying on the help of a plumber to clear the clog and clean your drain. This will not only safely remove the obstruction, but a drain cleaning will lessen the chance of this occurring once more.
Clean Faucet Aerators at Least Once a Month
If you have a newer faucet in your home, there’s a chance you’ll find an aerator at its opening. While it may sound like complex terminology, the purpose of this little detail is simple: it helps add air to the water’s flow, letting it run smoothly — rather than splashing all over the place.
However, over time, this little piece can become clogged with mineral deposits, disrupting the water’s flow. In a conscious effort to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s best to clean your faucet aerators at least once a month.
To clean your faucet’s aerator, here’s what you need to do:
Gently remove the aerator with your hands (or with pliers) from the faucet.
Once off, take a photo of how the aerator is assembled — so that you will not forget when you need to put it back on.
After that, gently check inside the faucet’s spout for any mineral deposits that may be blocking the flow of water.
Next, with a toothpick, gently poke through the aerator’s holes to free any lingering debris.
Finally, once completed, rinse off the aerator, assemble it, and gently secure it back on the faucet’s spout.
Always be on the Lookout for Signs of Water Leakage
While your home’s plumbing may seem to be functioning up to par, it’s never completely safe from harm. When you least expect it, a plumbing leak could arise — or, worse — already be present without your knowledge. To lessen the chance of irreparable damage from occurring, as well as wasting water, you should always be on the hunt for water leakage.
Some signs of a water leak’s presence include:
You hear the sound of running water when nothing is on.
The water meter continues to spin when all fixtures are not in use.
Your water bill is much higher than it normally is.
There are random wet spots around your home.
There’s an uptick in mold and mildew growth.
Of course, the minute you suspect there’s a leak in your home, it’s vital to call a professional plumber right away to not only detect it but to repair it and stop the inevitable from happening.