How to Keep Your Plumbing in Top Shape

Plumbing is something we rarely think about – until something goes wrong. When a pipe in the kitchen bursts or the toilet just won’t flush, you really appreciate the importance of having a functioning plumbing system. Luckily, homeowners can avoid the most serious issues simply by being conscientious.

In this article, we will talk about how to care for your plumbing and look at some warning signs that it is time to call in the experts whether you’ll need plumbers in Hornsby, Harrow or Halifax.

Home Plumbing Care Tips

Try to Avoid Clogs

Drains in your kitchen and bathroom can easily become clogged with hair, food particles, grease, and other random debris. These clogs can cause water to back up and even lead to water damage or a burst pipe. To avoid clogs in your drains, it is important to be mindful of what goes down the sink or toilet. Be sure to clear grease and food scraps off your plates before washing them in the kitchen sink, and always use drain strainers to catch fallen hair and soap scum in the bathroom.

Regularly Check for Leaks

That small leak under the sink may not be too bothersome at the moment, but it can lead to big problems over time. Leaks can cause water to pool, which can, in turn, lead to water damage to walls, tiles, and furniture. Furthermore, that dripping faucet or running toilet is costing you a fortune in water bills. Sometimes, leaks can be subtle. Check your cabinets, walls, and floors for dampness or mold and investigate to see if you can discern the source of the moisture.

Use Chemicals Sparingly

While chemical drain cleaners advertise a quick fix, they can be harsh on your pipes and inadvertently damage them over time. Not to mention that their fumes can be dangerous to the pets and residents in your home. Try to use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear clogs without chemicals first. If that doesn’t work, try natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar next. Strong chemical drain cleaners should be your last option.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Water in your pipes can freeze and expand during the winter, causing bursts and massive water damage. Be sure to insulate any exposed pipes, especially if they are in areas where there is no heating, such as basements, attics, and garages. If you plan to leave your property for the winter, make sure that you shut off the water mains and empty all the pipes. It can also help to keep cabinet doors open to allow the warmer air from the rest of the house to circulate around pipes.

When to Call in the Professionals

Persistent Clogs

If you find yourself having to manually unclog drains repeatedly, or if several drains in your home are clogged at the same time, you may have a more serious issue affecting your plumbing system. Professional plumbers have experience with complex blockages, and they can follow your pipes to identify and solve the root of the problem.

Large Leaks or Water Damage

Some leaks are difficult to fix, especially if they are behind walls or under floors. Hidden leaks are often out of sight and out of mind, but they can lead to severe structural damage or dangerous mold outbreaks if left alone. Professional plumbers have the tools and skill to locate the source and make the necessary repairs to stem the leak.

Sewer Smell

It is only natural to have a bad smell in your bathroom occasionally, but a persistent sewer smell in your home or when you flush the toilet is a sure sign that there is a break or blockage in the sewer line. The foul odors are due to sewage backing up in the pipes. This is a complicated problem that requires specialized equipment and the expertise of professionals to resolve.

Water Pressure or Heater Issues

Poor performance of your showers and faucets may also be a symptom of a plumbing problem. For instance, the water pressure in your shower may fluctuate or be weaker than expected. As you shower, you may also notice that your water heater may be producing water at an inconsistent temperature. Both of these are signs that there may be pipe corrosion, sediment build-up, or leaks in your system that require professional attention.

New Appliances

Installing new appliances or large fixtures like dishwashers, sinks, and toilets often requires precise connections to your home’s plumbing system. If installed incorrectly, these fixtures can not only lose functionality but also cause more problems to your home. Therefore, it is best to hire a professional plumber to ensure that they are installed safely and properly.

Regular Check-Ups and Maintenance

Like any other system in your home, your plumbing needs to have regular maintenance to remain in top condition. It is recommended that you engage a professional plumber to inspect your plumbing system annually. A trained eye may be able to notice small signs or concerns that would otherwise be overlooked and address them before they escalate.

Conclusion

From where we eat to where we clean, our homes’ plumbing systems are key to a healthy living environment. By taking care of your pipes and drainage and calling in the professionals when required, you can enjoy the peace of a properly performing plumbing system.