Every once in a while, we all experience misfortunes in our households that can cause us a real headache. Just imagine waking up in the morning, soaking up the beautiful and rich smell of your freshly made coffee, and finding out a minute later that what was once your basement is now a literal lake. There goes your fantasy!
Plumbing is usually not something we pay attention to until it causes us trouble. And when it does, it does it in grand style! A plumbing system is a complicated grid of pipes set in unapproachable places not available to the naked eye. It’s hard to tell if there is an actual problem happening. That’s why it is essential to know how to maintain your plumbing system and what steps to take to prevent plumbing catastrophes.
We want to guide you through what practices you should apply in the future to evade such intricacies ahead. Get ready for ten home plumbing tips and tricks!
Please, don’t pour grease or oil down your drain!
People can naively consider grease and oil just like regular liquids that we usually pour down the sink. But they are not the same! Most of us know that grease sticks to our blood vessels and causes vein clogs. Well, grease has the same effect on draining pipes as well! So, if you continue to pour that cooking liquid down the drain, expect troubles because plumbing problems occur when that grease builds up. What you should consider are ways for safer disposal of such liquids. Whatever you do, please don’t throw it away down the sink!
Clear clogs
The market suggests various products for removing clogs, but you should keep in mind that most of those products contain some heavy chemicals that can damage the pipes in the long run. That’s why you should consider using less abrasive substances with mild effects. A perfect medium is a baking soda and vinegar mixture with hot water. Pour it where you suspect a clog and watch it solve the problem in no time.
Always use a basket strainer
This option should not even be an option! It is a must. If you haven’t got a filter yet, wait no more. Get yourself a few immediately and put them on every drain in your home. You don’t want all those nasty chunky parts of food going down the sink or bundles of hair clogging your shower.
Be careful with flushing
It feels like the need to explain this to adults is silly, but some of us are ignorant and flush things like hygiene products down the toilet. If you are one of them, we suggest you stop doing it immediately! You should flush only body waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Everything else puts you at risk of creating a clog.
Plumbing inspection
Last but not least, make sure to have a plumbing inspection every once in a while. Call professionals and don’t save money on wrong things – any potential plumbing catastrophe can cost an arm and a leg. Doing plumbing fixes is delicate labor and must be handled with care. You can always learn a few basics, but commitment and effort are necessary for a successful plumbing undertaking. That’s why you should think twice before doing something on your own. Calling a professional is always a better option. Fortunately, it’s easy to find a good plumber in Northern Beaches if you live in Sydney.
Be aware of the main water valve
In case of an emergency, a real lifesaver could be to know where your main water valve is. Most of us don’t know where to find it in our homes. Turning it off minimizes the potential damage of a burst pipe. Do your research. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Pay attention to water pressure
Just as you need to check your blood pressure for a healthy body, you need to check water pressure for a healthy plumbing system. You can achieve this by applying a simple pressure gauge that will inform you of every little slight leakage.
Learn how to use the plunger properly
If you don’t have one, consider getting it. A plunger can be a quick solution to less complicated issues. Before using the plunger, pour some hot water over the rubber to soften it and make it stick better to the surface. It will guarantee a better suction.
Watch out for the cold
Cold weather and pipes don’t get along that much. Pipes actually despise the coldness. It would be best to shield them from harsh winter to prevent bursting.
Don’t ignore the leaks
Dripping faucets are ignored by many even though they are the first sign of a developing problem. Also, not to mention the water waste! We should act responsibly to our environment. Consider checking water meters to see if there are abnormal changes in consumption.
Time takes a toll
We wholeheartedly advise you on how to preclude any possible dangers. Still, we also need to tell you that time will probably take a toll on your plumbing and that you will eventually have a problem. Best advice – find a good plumber!