Key Plumbing Tips You Should Know to Keep Your Plumbing in Check all Year
As a homeowner, it is important to be aware of the inner plumbing works of your house. Having basic knowledge about plumbing and how it works can save your time and money. Since keeping a check of their plumbing systems is the smartest thing a homeowner can do, we have the top tips that can give you a kick start.
Know Where the Shut off Valves Are
Before shifting homes, make sure you are aware of where the drain and main shut off valve is located. In addition to that, get familiar with the access points of the sewer lines because you may need to get them cleaned out periodically. There is also a high chance that condos and apartments will not have their own shut off valves.
Pipes Should Not Be Punctured
If you are planning on drilling holes in the ceiling, walls, or floor, make sure there are no pipes located in that area. If you accidently drip a hole in the pipe, it will cause the pipe to puncture. Therefore, it is important for you to locate where the pipes are. Alternatively, you could purchase an endoscopic camera that could be in the walls so you are exactly aware of where the pipes are.
Figure Out What Can Be Flushed
It is important for homeowners to know that their toilet should not be used as a trash can. Flushing things down the toilet (except toilet paper) can cause clogs. Even if items state that they are “flushable,” do not flush them if you feel like your drains will not be able to handle them.
Do Not Throw Garbage in the Drain
It is never okay to dump bacon grease, starchy foods (like potatoes and rice), coffee grounds, vegetable peels, or food leftovers down the drain. All these things WILL clog your pipes. We would recommend reading the manufacturer’s manual on garbage disposal so you get a better idea of what can be disposed and what cannot be.
Do Not Overlook Leaks
If you have been hearing a constant dripping coming from your faucet, it is highly possible that there is a faulty pipeline present. A leaking faucet wastes almost eight gallons of water a day while a running toilet can waste up to 200! This being said, it is your responsibility to get these leaks checked out as soon as possible so you can save your money and be a responsible citizen.
Fittings Should Never Be Over Tightened
When performing DIY plumbing tasks, homeowners tend to make the connections and fittings too tight. This leads to breaking the bolts or stripping the screws. Rule of thumb when it comes to fittings is “hand tight is just right.”
Check for Leaks, Always
After doing any plumbing project, it is important to check for leaks in the plumbing system. You must run water through the plumbing system then open and close all the valves and drains. If there is a leak, you must consult a professional as soon as possible regardless of how small it may be.
Look for “plumbers near me” or consult to our services at Your 1 Plumber. We will make sure the plumbing system of your house is top notch and there is no water or money being wasted.
