The plumbing in our homes and businesses is the foundation of a properly functioning building, but it is often taken for granted until something goes wrong. We can not assume that our sinks, water heaters, toilets, and pipes will work perfectly forever, so it is essential that we provide them with proper maintenance.
Fortunately, many problems that could arise can be avoided when simple habits are implemented. Preventing plumbing problems is not as stressful as you may think it is.
So, here are five ways to prevent plumbing problems within your home or business.
1. Conduct Proper Drain Care
Clogged drains are some of the most common plumbing issues we see many of our customers run into. Thankfully, with the right care, these clogs can be avoided. It all starts with avoiding pouring anything like grease, oil, or food scraps down the drain. It is also wise to put drain covers on sinks and tubs to stop larger items like food or hair from sliding in.
If you notice a buildup in your drains, use hot water to flush away anything that might be in there. It is essential that you do not use any chemical drain cleaners as they could corrode your pipes and lead to more significant issues.
2. Insulate Your Pipes
The colder seasons will have a significant impact on your pipes. It is essential that you take proper care of your pipes before the first frost to ensure there is no possibility of a burst pipe in the future.
To do this, you should properly insulate your pipes. The pipes in your basement, attic, or crawl space are likely to be unheated and prone to cold elements, so insulation can help preserve warmth.
3. Keep Certain Things Out of the Toilet
Proper toilet usage is so important. Whether you are in a household full of children or run a business with a public bathroom, it is essential that your toilets are given the proper care throughout their lifetime.
You should avoid flushing items such as feminine hygiene products, unflushable wipes, “flushable” wipes, and excessive toilet paper. Toilets are prone to clogging, and these items can cause it to happen quickly.
4. Update Your Water Heater
An often overlooked appliance in your house might be the water heater. They can last for 8-12 years, leaving you to forget about them and not think about when they might need maintenance or replacement, but if you want to avoid flooding or cold water, it is essential to keep an eye on them.
It is essential to conduct annual maintenance on your water heater or even seasonal maintenance if you live in predominantly cold areas. You want to ensure it is in proper working condition. If not, it could be time for an upgrade.
5. Schedule Regular Inspections
Conducting regularly scheduled plumbing inspections in your home or business is the best way to prevent plumbing problems. Depending on what you believe you need, this could be done yearly or seasonally. However, having a professional inspect your plumbing can keep you ahead of any possible issues.
A professional plumber can inspect your home for possible leaks, unseen corrosion, old pipes, water heater troubles, or sump pump issues. They can help you be proactive about your plumbing and ensure issues are addressed before they occur. Inspections can keep you ahead of your plumbing issues.
These are only five of the many ways you can prevent plumbing problems in your home or business. At the end of the day, if you are unsure about your plumbing, call a professional for help. If you have questions or wish to schedule an inspection, contact the team at Lutz Plumbing.