Too many homeowners only call a plumber in the case of a plumbing emergency. This is not good because home owners should be calling a plumber before an emergency takes place. Regular plumbing maintenance and inspections can drastically reduce the chances of another plumbing disaster or repair. A small plumbing issue can become a larger and more costly repair if not caught in time. Basement flooding, water leaks, burst pipes, and more can cause thousands of dollars of damages that could have otherwise been avoided with some simple routine maintenance and repair. Fortunately, there are several things a person can do to prolong the life of their plumbing system and prevent plumbing emergencies. Continue reading to learn how to care for your home’s plumbing, properly, and who you should call if you require plumbing repair services.
Plumbing Maintenance and Care
Always remember that a little preventative maintenance goes a long way for a residential plumbing system. Preventing emergencies like clogged drains, toilet overflows, water heater failures, and more can feel very good to a homeowner’s budget. Preventing these issues also prevents larger disasters from occurring. This saves a household thousands of dollars each year! A properly cared-for plumbing system simply won’t require as much repair and replacement. Check out some DIY methods to prolonging and caring for your home plumbing and start preparing your system for the long-haul!
Water Leaks
Regularly inspect all areas of your home for potential water leaks. This means checking the faucet for excessive dripping, inspecting the HVAC system for possible leaks, looking out for moisture accumulation on appliances or pipes, and more. This should be done at least one time a year. Finding a water leak in its beginning stages can stop possible flooding situations, structural damages, and mold problems; saving a home owner a lot of money.
Septic Tanks
Septic tanks can cause severe home disasters. For anyone who has experienced a septic tank flood will tell you it’s a nightmare and costs thousands of dollars to cleanup and repair. Severe storms and system defects can cause septic tanks to malfunction or overflow, causing extreme home damages. It is strongly encouraged to install a battery-powered back-up sump pump for emergencies. Also, have your tank checked by a licensed master plumber at least once a year; or more if your city experiences higher precipitation levels and rainy seasons.
Water Heaters and Conditioners
Water pressure can be an indication that something is not quite right with your plumbing. Check the shower heads and faucets for reduced water pressure. This can be a sign that you have sediment buildup in your plumbing system, or worse, a faulty water line. You may also have sediment buildup in your water heater, causing loss of performance and corrosion. It is important to have a licensed master plumber empty your water heater, and clean the sediment from your system a few times a year. This can reduce several costly problems and repairs.
Gas and Water Shut-Off Valves
Every homeowner should know where their gas and water shut-off valve is located, and how to operate it in the case of an emergency. If you ever need to turn your water off, be sure to also turn off your water heater so to not damage the heating elements within it. If you ever smell gas, act immediately. Turn your gas valve off and leave your home. Also, at the same time, do not flip off light switches or use anything that can create a spark. Just leave the premises and call for a master plumber to inspect your home. Gas leaks can be fatal, so it is vital to always take immediate action if you think you smell gas.
