Truth be told, most of us rarely think about our plumbing until there’s an emergency, such as a blocked drain or broken water heater. However, if you take a few precautionary steps, you can keep most plumbing issues at bay. In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh provides you with tips for preventing plumbing issues.
Avoid Using Drain Cleaning Chemicals
While it may seem like a convenient solution for unclogging drains, using chemical drain cleaners can have adverse effects on your plumbing. These harsh chemicals can erode pipes and fittings over time, potentially causing leaks or damage. Furthermore, drain cleaners are often not a permanent fix and can mask more significant issues in your plumbing. Instead of relying on chemical solutions, it’s better to address the root cause of the clog through other means, such as a plumbing snake or professional assistance from an experienced plumber in Uniontown.
Schedule Regular Plumbing Maintenance
One of the most important things you can do to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape and avoid plumbing issues is to perform regular maintenance. Routine maintenance helps identify and address minor issues before they escalate into expensive problems. Besides, it can extend the lifespan of your plumbing system and its components, saving you money on premature replacements. Here are a few tasks you should do on a regular basis:
- Inspect your plumbing for leaks.
- Check water pressure.
- Test your sump pump.
- Keep an eye out for water leaks.
- Periodically flush and drain your water heater to remove sediment and maintain its efficiency.
- Occasionally check water quality and test for contaminants.
- Remove and clean faucet aerators to maintain proper water flow.
Protect Your Plumbing During the Winter Months
Winter weather can be tough on your plumbing. It’s important to take some basic precautions to safeguard your plumbing against the cold weather. Here are some of the measures you can take to protect your plumbing during the winter months:
- Use pipe insulation or heat tape to cover exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like crawl spaces, attics, or garages.
- Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior to prevent cold air from reaching your pipes.
- During extremely cold weather, allow faucets to drip slowly.
- In kitchens and bathrooms, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Keep your home heated, even if you’re away. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F to prevent freezing.
- Know how to shut off the main water supply quickly in case of a pipe burst.
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
Install Drain Guards
Drain guards are simple yet effective devices that can prevent larger debris from entering and potentially clogging your drains. These guards usually consist of fine mesh or a screen that fits over the drain opening. They are commonly used in showers, sinks, and bathtubs to trap hair, soap scum, and foreign objects before they can travel down the drain. Installing drain guards can save you from dealing with frustrating clogs and the need for extensive plumbing repairs.
Be Careful With What You Flush
Flushing inappropriate items down your toilet can lead to blockages in your plumbing system and potential damage. It’s essential to flush only human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Items like sanitary products, wet wipes, paper towels, and even dental floss should not be flushed, as they can accumulate in the pipes and create obstructions, resulting in costly plumbing issues.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing Of Pittsburgh Is Here To Help You With All Your Plumbing Needs
Looking for a dependable plumber in Beaver? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh to schedule plumbing services. It helps to have a skilled plumber in Uniontown on your side to help you with repairs, replacements, and preventive maintenance.
