To avoid the angst that comes when you run into plumbing problems in your home, it is wise to institute a maintenance plan. There are things that you can do to keep your plumbing functioning well, help lower repair costs and add more peace of mind.
The first thing would be to make sure that you clearly define what should and should not be flushed down your toilets—those things that could get stuck and will ultimately cause clogging. Everyone in the house should know what these are.
Next, you can employ a plumber that will treat your drains with Total-C, a citrus smelling treatment to keep your drains flowing efficiently, like Rooter Man. If you choose to do-it-yourself, be sure to carefully read labels when purchasing chemicals for drain, tub and toilet bowls. You want to protect your family from harsh chemicals as well as the pipes in your home from chemicals that can cause corrosion, which can ultimately lead to leakage. The ancient remedies of using natural cleaning elements like vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice have proven to be very beneficial.
If you do not have an in-sink garbage disposal, you might choose to apply drain covers or filters. This helps avoid clogs by keeping large material from getting into your pipes. Often leftovers can build up in your pipes and a filter or drain cover can be the least expensive way to avoid costly repair. Also remember that the grease you use to cook with is only a liquid when warmed. If poured down your drain, it can eventually solidify and cause blockages.
Plan to have your plumbing inspected on a regular basis since normal wear and tear can cause problems. Major repairs can be avoided by these inspections, which can detect root build up around your pipes or small leaks that if left unchecked can lead to huge breaks.
Don’t ignore early warnings. If you experience a change in your water pressure or noises, smells or discolorations, calling an experienced professional plumber can help you stop the problem before it becomes too major and requires huge repairs.
Familiarize yourself with your home’s main water shut-off valve as well as all the shut-off valves throughout your house. This will help avoid panic when a leak occurs.
If you have exposed pipes near your laundry, never use them as hanger rods as this can affect the joints and fasteners connected to the pipes.
When it comes to plumbing, it is most important to be aware and prepared.