A well-maintained plumbing system supplies water to the fixtures in the house. It provides a proper wastewater management system to dispose of water from sinks, showers, toilets, and appliances. Plumbing companies can also design a plumbing system that helps the owners save energy. Here are a few ways to keep your plumbing system in optimum working condition:
1. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Do not use drain cleaners that have sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, as they will damage the pipes. Avoid cleaners that have sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, as they are also not good for the plumbing. Bleach or peroxide-containing cleaners should not be used on a regular basis. Enzymatic cleaners are less toxic, but they may not be enough to unclog a very blocked drain. Instead of using chemical solvents, try using mechanical ways of clearing the clogs, such as using plungers or drain snakes.
2. Install Drain Strainers
Use sink strainers in the kitchen to trap food particles and debris. Put in pop-up drain stoppers in the bathroom sinks so that hair and soap scum won’t clog the drain. For showers, use dome-shaped strainers that are placed over the shower drain to help keep hair and other particles out. For bathtubs, use flat drain covers with small holes to minimize the chances of large objects falling into the drains. Silicone drain protectors are flexible and can easily be used on a variety of drain sizes.
3. Don’t Flush Large Items
Avoid flushing any wet wipes, whether they are labeled “flushable” or not, because they still don’t dissolve well. Other things you should not flush include:
- Sanitary products
- Dental floss, cotton swabs, or cotton balls
- Medicines
- Cat litter
- Cooking grease and oil
All of these items will clog your pipes and cause further issues down the road. If you accidentally flush these items down the drain, schedule an appointment with your local plumber.
4. Fix Leaks Promptly
If you notice dripping faucets, fix them as early as possible. Toilet fixtures should be repaired as soon as possible. Fix leaking shower heads to prevent damage to walls and floors around the shower. Repair pipe leakage that occurs under a sink or within walls and ceilings to avoid mold formation. Leaking water heaters should be repaired quickly to prevent damage to the system’s components. Slab leaks should be fixed immediately to avoid damage to the foundation of the home.
5. Insulate Pipes in Cold Areas
To prevent pipes from freezing in unheated areas, have your plumber wrap them with foam pipe insulation sleeves. Use fiberglass insulation around pipes that are in the wall or attic to control temperatures. You can also cover any gaps around pipes that pass through the walls of the house with the use of caulk or spray foam. Pipes that become too cold may eventually burst, leading to larger issues.
6. Arrange for a Plumbing Inspection
While performing the inspection, plumbing companies look for visible evidence of leaks in pipe systems. Plumbers use special tools to scan for hidden leaks. They check for water pressure to avoid straining the pipes. They check the water heater for functionality and verify that there is no leakage or rusting due to the accumulation of sediment. Plumbers check the state of fixtures, such as taps and showers. They determine the general age and condition of the plumbing system and give suggestions for its improvement or repairs.
Work With Reliable Plumbing Companies
A plumbing system should not waste water through leaks. If you suspect that your system is not functioning properly or that you have a leak, reach out to a plumber in your area. They will verify that everything is working properly and repair or replace broken parts.
