Previously, we wrote a blog post titled “Real Plumbers Share 7 Secrets With Homeowners.” These were very practical tips that would prevent or minimize some of the most common plumbing problems we see.
As it turns out, plumbers have even more tips for homeowners who want to take good care of their plumbing! So here are seven more plumbing maintenance tips that will help you keep your plumbing in tip-top shape.
1) Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
The advertising sells these chemical drain cleaners as quick and easy solutions, but they are expensive and can result in expensive plumbing bills in the future. These harsh chemicals can damage drain pipes and they fail to completely clear clogs. If the plunger and/or hot water and dish soap can’t clear the clog, you need to call a plumber for drain cleaning.
2) Use Strainers to Protect Your Drains
Using basket strainers or catchers in your sinks and shower will prevent a lot of hair, soap residue and food waste from going down the drain and creating clogs. Trust the plumbers: regularly emptying the basket strainer is much easier than the time-consuming and unpleasant task of clearing a badly clogged drain.
3) Know Where Your Main Water Valve Is
If your dishwasher suddenly started flooding the kitchen or a pipe burst or a tap broke, would you know where to find your main water valve so you could quickly shut it off and minimize the flood?
4) Test Your Toilet Flush Valve Seal for Leaks
The flush valve seal keeps water from flowing from the tank to the bowl of your toilet when it’s sitting idle. Test the seal by squirting a couple drops of food coloring into the toilet tank. Check on the toilet two hours later. If the color is now in the toilet bowl, you have a leak.
5) Keep Your Main Sewer Line Cleanout Accessible
The cleanout pipe allows you to get to the main sewer line so you can clear a blockage or do routine maintenance. It’s sometimes near the house, at the property line, but often in the basement. It shouldn’t be carpeted over or obstructed. In the case of a sewage line blockage, your plumber will need access to this clean out quickly and efficiently.
6) Set Your Water Heater to 120 Degrees
Even if the manufacturer set your water heater to 140 degrees, 120 degrees will deliver warm water throughout your house and save you money on your energy bills.
7) Clean the Shower Head
Is the water too slow in the shower or the spray pattern too erratic? You might need a new shower head, but first try cleaning your existing one. Get a plastic bag and fill it half-way with vinegar. Then using a rubber band attached the bag around your shower head. Leave it overnight and if all goes well, you’ll have a terrific shower in the morning.
Plumbing Maintenance in Burlington & Beyond
Follow these tried and true plumbing maintenance tips to keep things flowing properly at your place in Burlington, Cherry Hill, or the surrounding area. If you need help with your plumbing system, be sure to contact the plumbing experts at your preferred home services company, like Davis Plumbing! Reach out to us if you need help with a leak, unclogging a drain or installing a new toilet or sink.
