A pound of prevention is worth a thousand cures. However, in the plumbing world preventative maintenance can help homeowners save money on expensive repairs as well as utility bills.
Here are seven easy ways to maintain your home’s plumbing systems.
PREVENTION IN THE POTTY
Even though your toilets are visited every day, you rarely take the tank cover off to inspect its components. It is a good idea check the fill, supply and flush values of the toilets as well the supply line for corrosion. Toilet leaks can be subtle, but they can also lead to high water bills.
DON’T GET HEATED OVER YOUR WATER HEATER
Do you ever feel the cold shoulder coming from your hot water heater. This could be due to sediment buildup in your water heater, which makes it less efficient.
You should drain your water heater and flush it every year to reduce sediment buildup and prolong the life of the heater. If there are any problems with your water heater, an annual inspection of the shut-off valves and piping could be an indicator.
CHECK OUT THE SLOW DRAINS
Slow drains may indicate bigger problems. How do your sinks, tubs, and showers drain?
If your drains seem slow, you can flush them with a mixture of vinegar and warm water. If they are still slow, then you might have a blockage.
Broken pipes and more serious problems can be caused by trying to remove a blockage with force or chemicals. Clear the drain P-traps underneath your sink. To catch any debris that may be causing a blockage, use drain baskets or screens in the tub and shower.
FIX LAKEY FAUCETS, SHOWERHEADS
If you are looking to save money and protect the environment, then fixing your water leaky faucet, and your shower head, is a good place to start. According to the Environmental Protection Agency a household can lose 180 gallons of water each week from house leaks.
You should make sure that the faucet handles do not leak when you turn off your water supply. Additionally, look out for drips from the shower heads or under the sink. These could be indicators of a corroded or worn washer, an O-ring that has deteriorated, or a worn valve.
SIGNS FOR THE SEASON
Outdoor Spigots, Pool Lines and Sprinkler Systems are free-flowing in summer, but can slow down your plumbing in colder months.
Make sure to check your outdoor fixtures before they get too cold. It may be necessary to perform a complete sprinkler winterization prior to landscaping going dormant.
UNDER PRESSURE
You should check the water pressure gauge in your home. You should never set it too high. It will cause unnecessary pressure on your plumbing. Your regulator should be working properly in order to maintain your pressure.
MISSING CAULK
Caulking is crucial in your bathroom as it provides a waterproof barrier for your floors and walls. In bathroom, missing caulk can cause moisture and water to seep in your floorboard and behind walls, creating the ideal environment for mold and mildew.
Examine the tiles around your tub, sink, and shower to see if there is any missing or damaged caulk. You can easily repair or replace tiles by using caulking guns or tubes that you can make yourself.