Any problems with your home or business plumbing can cause minor inconveniences to expensive headaches. However, by following some easy-to-follow preventative tips, you can keep your pipes flowing steadily and avoid a potential disaster that can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs or replacement.
Plumbing Problems Video Explanation
As a property manager, here are three things to communicate with your tenants to prevent costly repairs. As commercial plumbers, these are some of the most common issues we see. Whether you send an email or give them a flyer, communicating these issues can save you A LOT in repair bills.
First, explain proper usage. Tell your tenants not to flush anything other than toilet paper, even if it claims to be flushable. Also let them know that grease DOES NOT go down the drain.
Second, explain leak detection. Early signs of leaks include visible dampness, odor, or unexpectedly high water bills. Ask them to report these issues immediately.
Third, show them emergency procedures. Educate your tenants on where the shut-off valves are in case of emergencies or major water leaks. And of course, how to get a hold of you quickly in case of emergency.
Good tenant communication is a fantastic way to help you protect your property and wallet!
How To Stop Plumbing Issues?
Here are some key strategies to prevent plumbing issues in your home:
Be Wary of What Goes Down the Drain
Only flush toilet paper and human waste; anything else, like used cooking oil and baby wipes, can solidify and cause clogs. Invest in drain screens to catch hair and debris in sinks and showers.
Do Regular Drain Maintenance
Even with precautions, clogs can happen, so devise a routine for flushing your drains with boiling water and baking soda to loosen any buildup. It is best to stay away from harsh chemical cleaners for drains because they can damage pipes and create bigger problems down the line.
Address Leaks Promptly
Leaks can waste water and cause considerable damage to the property if left unchecked. Regularly inspect pipes, faucets, toilets, and water heater for signs of leaks, like dripping, damp spots, or unusual water meter readings, and fix them as soon as possible to reduce water damage and the repair bill.
Use Fixtures Carefully
Your kitchen and bathroom fixtures are delicate. Do not use excessive force when turning them on or off to avoid damaging the valves. Also, wipe down faucets and sinks after each use to avert water spots and mineral build-up.
Manage Water Pressure
High water pressure can stress your plumbing which can later lead to leaks and bursts. If you suspect high water pressure, consider installing a pressure regulator to safeguard your pipes. You can also use low-flow showerheads and faucets in this regard.
Insulate Pipes in Cold Climates
Frozen pipes can burst, causing major disruption and repairs. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, like crawlspaces or attics, particularly in cold weather regions.
Schedule Professional Inspections
A bit of care before a crisis occurs is better than a lot of fixing up afterward. Consider having a local plumber check your plumbing system periodically, especially if your home is older. They are trained to single out potential problems early on and recommend preventative measures.
Be Gentle With Your Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are great for food scraps, but they have limitations. Avoid putting fibrous materials like celery or corn husks or anything that expands in water, like rice or pasta, down the disposal. These can clog the blades and cause malfunctions.
Inspect Water Heater
Your hot water heaters won’t last forever (8 to 12 years at best).
If you are not getting enough hot water or your water heater is showing any other sign of a failure, such as flooding, leakage, and others, replace it as soon as possible.
It’s always a good idea to keep a keen eye on its working and do annual maintenance to prolong its life without compromising efficiency. There are alternatives available today. A tankless water heater consumes less energy and provides adequate hot water with a lower bill.
DIY Plumbing without Guidance – A Big No
The plumbing system is not that simple, and how it works is quite difficult to understand for many. In a hurry to fix the problem, you may overlook underlying issues that can lead to bigger headaches afterward.
Unstoppable leaks from bad DIY repairs can weaken the structure of your residential or business property which may cost you thousands of dollars in professional repairs to undo your blunders.
You are also exposed to harmful bacteria and other contaminants, and that’s a serious concern for you and your family’s health. Worse, mistakes with gas lines cause dangerous leaks and potential explosions, threatening you and others living nearby.
Common Plumbing Issues Best Left to Professionals
- Burst Pipes: Requires immediate and skilled intervention to prevent extensive water damage.
- Sewer Line Problems: Complex and messy that need the help of specialized tools and knowledge.
- Water Heater Installation & Repair: Incorrect installation can lead to inefficiency and potential hazards. Handling electric or gas water heaters involves risks that require professional expertise.
- Deep Clogs: Simple tools might not reach deep clogs, and improper techniques can damage plumbing pipes. Persistent blockages may indicate more severe underlying issues.
Conclusion
If you notice a small leak or minor clog, fixing it yourself quickly can prevent it from becoming a major plumbing hassle. Along with it, be proactive with drain care, use the fixtures correctly and hire a professional to inspect your plumbing system from time to time.Â
However, do not hesitate to call a plumbing service in your area for more difficult tasks that require expert diagnosis and troubleshooting. With a little effort, your plumbing system will remain operational for years to come.