If you don’t see it, it doesn’t mean it’s not important. Case in point: your plumbing. From the hot water in your shower to the water you use in your sprinkler, a homeowner’s plumbing system should facilitate the water flow you need at the time you need it. Plumbers advise having a regular maintenance schedule done to your plumbing system.
It needs a little help from you, however, in the way of maintenance. Take care of plumbing as you would other parts of your home. Not sure where to begin? Follow a few simple tips.
Plumbers Advise You About Chemical Drain Cleaners
While these products promise to make quick work of blockages, they may also make quick work of your pipes as well. Just read the ingredients and warnings on the label; drain-cleaning products use harsh chemicals that can erode your drain pipes. Moreover, they typically don’t remove the entire blockage. The best way to address a blocked pipe is to call on trusted plumbers in Saskatoon who will use specialized tools to fix the problem once and for all.
Watch What You Flush Down the Drain
Of course, the best way to address plumbing problems is to avoid causing them in the first place. In this vein, watch what you flush down the drain. Some of the things you should avoid flushing down the toilet include diapers, which can cause blockages in the drain. In the kitchen, make sure only small food scraps are processed by your food disposal unit. Ideally, you should also install a screen over the drains in your shower and tubs to catch clog-causing hair and other debris.
Prepare for Winter
Since pipes are made of metals, they expand—and potentially burst—during the winter. Prevent this by insulating the pipes in crawl spaces and in your garage. Likewise, apply an insulating cap on your outdoor faucets used for hoses and sprinklers. By taking these necessary precautions, you avoid burst pipes that can wreak tremendous water damage to your home and belongings.
Address Problems Early
Does your tap spout less water than normal? Is your water heater turning on and off repeatedly? Is the pipe under your sink leaking? If you answered “yes” to any of these common plumbing problems, be sure to take action immediately. A minor niggle that you address ASAP can save you from a ton of headaches—and a hefty repair bill—down the line.
Indeed, plumbing is one of the most important yet often neglected aspects of your home. By following these tips, you can help prolong the life of your plumbing and prevent costly repairs. If you need expert help in addressing whatever problems you encounter, get in touch with a trusted plumbing contractor immediately.
Sources:
Caring for Your Plumbing System, HouseLogic.com
Plumbing Maintenance Tips, HGTV.com