How to Prevent Common Plumbing Issues in a House
As a homeowner, you are likely to have to deal with plumbing issues at some point. But knowing what to look out for can help you prevent some of these problems before they develop.
Maintain a regular schedule of inspections to nip issues in the bud. Be cognizant of what can and cannot be flushed, and use drain guards and strainers to stop clogs before they occur.
Frozen Pipes
The cold winter weather may make us want to snuggle up by the fireplace with a hot cup of tea or soup, but it also puts our pipes at risk for freezing. This problem can lead to serious damage if left unattended, especially if the frozen pipe bursts.
If you turn on a faucet in your home and only a trickle flows, then it is likely that a pipe in the room has frozen. To find the exact location of the frozen pipe, open all other faucets in the room and look for any frost or ice on the pipe.
To thaw the frozen pipe, apply heat to the area. You can use an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, a hair dryer (kept away from flammable materials), or a portable space heater. Continue to add heat to the area until you notice that water pressure is restored. You can also try opening the cabinet doors under your sinks to help warm the area.
Leaky Pipes
Pipes can start to wear out after a while due to constant use and the natural shifting of your home’s foundation. This can lead to leaking pipes which not only waste water but also creates breeding grounds for bacteria and rust. Leaking pipes should always
be repaired as soon as they are discovered as they can cause severe damage to your home over time. This is why regular plumbing inspections are so important – your plumber will be able to catch these problems before they become too big!
Unfortunately, leaky pipes are often the result of bad workmanship. Whether that be from the previous owners or from a DIY job gone wrong, it is important to get a professional plumber to assess your piping and ensure it is in good condition. This will save you money and a lot of headaches in the future! Preventing these issues can be as simple as finding your main shut-off valve (normally located in a garage or basement) and turning it off.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are a nuisance and can lead to bigger problems like broken pipes and sewage backup. A few simple prevention tips can help:
Avoid pouring commercial drain cleaners down your sink, as they often corrode older pipes and can be harmful to the environment. Instead, try pouring hot water down
the drain to break up any grease or grime. For stubborn clogs, you can also mix up a homemade mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
Another common plumbing issue is dripping faucets, which waste water and can cause expensive damage to your home. A single dripping faucet can waste up to 2,000 gallons of water per year, and should be fixed immediately.
Broken Faucets
Drip, drip, drip. It’s an annoying sound that can drive you crazy. Whether it’s in the bathroom, kitchen, or somewhere else, a dripping faucet can be a sign of a bigger problem.
A leaking faucet can be caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals. It can also be due to a corroded valve seat that connects the handle to the spout.
Regardless of the cause, fixing a leaky faucet is fairly straightforward. Start by shutting off the water supply valves under the sink to prevent accidental spills. Next, make sure you have a clean workspace and the necessary tools. This includes adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers. Having replacement parts on hand, like washers or O-rings, can help you get your repair done faster. Lastly, remember to replace the decorative cap on the handle and the stem screw, then reassemble the faucet, ensuring it’s in proper working order. That way, you won’t have to deal with the drip, drip, drip again! For more information, sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-geelong/blocked-drains-geelong/ can provide you with resolution to your plumbing problems.
