Plumbing problems can be frustrating and expensive to fix. Fortunately, many of these issues are avoidable with a few simple precautions and good hygiene.
One of the most common plumbing problems is a clogged drain. To prevent this problem, never put fats or oils down the drain, as these will harden over time and clog your pipes.
Ensure that minor issues are fixed immediately
Keeping your plumbing in working order is top of mind for any homeowner. With the proper maintenance you can avoid major headaches and save big on your utility bills. However, if you don’t take the time to do your due diligence you can find yourself with a leaky toilet or flooded basement that may cost a pretty penny to remedy. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your pipes running smooth and save you big bucks in the process.
Ensure that your toilet is up to snuff by regularly flushing it to prevent the build-up of mineral deposits that can cause the toilet to become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Likewise, make sure that your bathroom isn’t overflowing with towels, toilet paper and other household debris. The right cleaning products can go a long way in keeping your toilet fresh and clean.
Lastly, be sure to call a professional to fix your plumbing if you notice anything out of the ordinary. Your plumber will be able to identify and fix the problem in no time at all.
Clear your drains frequently
A drain is a hole or pipe that whisks wastewater away. It is essential to keep your drains clean to avoid plumbing issues.
Clogged drains are an inconvenience and can be expensive to repair. They can also cause leaks, water damage and lead to bad odors in your home.
Taking care of your drains frequently will prevent clogs from building up over time and will reduce the chance of costly repairs.
It will also reduce the risk of pipes corroding and breaking. This is a major issue that can cause backups in your sink, toilet and washing machine.
You can clear your drains without calling a plumber by mixing a combination of baking soda, vinegar and salt. Pour a half cup of each into the drain, then cover it and wait for 15 minutes. After that, add two quarts of boiling water to flush it out. This will remove the mixture and dislodge any clogs that may have formed.
Avoid putting grease down your drains
Pouring grease down your drains may seem like a convenient way to dispose of cooked meat, but it can be harmful. Over time, this waste can clog your pipes and lead to costly plumbing repairs.
Fortunately, there are ways to avoid this problem. First, always let used cooking oil cool before dumping it down your sink or garbage disposal.
Once the grease has cooled, it will solidify and coat your pipes, trapping food particles that can cause a clog.
This is especially true of fatty oils such as bacon, lard, shortening and butter.
In some parts of the world, this practice has resulted in catastrophic collections of fat and grease that clog sewer systems. This sludge can eventually lead to sewer overflows and raw sewage leaking into your neighborhood.
Call a plumber as soon as you notice a problem
If you notice any plumbing issues, call a plumber immediately. There are websites online such as https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-adelaide/ that will have a lot of resourceful information. This will ensure that your problem doesn’t worsen and cause further damage to your home.
Most homeowners have the skill and tools to fix a minor plumbing problem, but if the issue is larger or more serious, calling a professional can save you time and money in the long run.
For example, a clogged toilet may be able to be plunged or snaked with some effort, but a plumbing professional will have the tools needed to permanently solve the problem.
The same goes for a leaky faucet or dripping water supply line. These problems are difficult to fix on your own, and they can make more expensive repairs more complicated.
Another sign that you should call a plumber is if the water in your taps is murky or smells funny. This is a major plumbing problem that can lead to health hazards and flooding problems if not addressed right away.
