Think about the last time you had to call a plumber. Unless you’re one yourself, it’s probably been a while, and it wasn’t a fun experience. Everybody knows that plumbing is a necessary evil. Nobody ever looks forward to dealing with clogged drains, backed-up toilets, or leaky faucets. Plumbing problems can be costly and inconvenient, so it’s essential to do what you can to keep them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips on how to keep your plumbing in top shape.
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Keep Grease Out Of The Drain
Most people know that they should avoid pouring grease down the drain. However, grease can build up in your pipes even if you’re careful about what goes down the drain. Over time, this grease can harden and cause blockages that lead to plumbing problems. Ensure your plumbing is in top shape; it’s essential to clean your drains and remove any grease build-up regularly. There are a few different ways to do this.
One option is to pour boiling water down the drain and then use a plunger to remove any remaining grease. This method is best for small amounts of grease. You may need to use a drain cleaning product or hire a professional plumber for more significant amounts. By taking care of your drains, you can help avoid costly repair bills and inconvenient plumbing problems.
Keep Water Temperature In Mind
You might not think about it often, but the water temperature in your home can significantly impact your plumbing. If the water is too hot or too cold, it can cause problems, from pipes bursting to fixtures breaking. That’s why it’s essential to keep the water temperature in mind when keeping your plumbing in top shape. The ideal water temperature for most homes is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the water is too hot, it can break down the pipes and fixtures and cause scalding accidents. On the other hand, if the water is too cold, it can freeze the pipes, leading to them bursting. Either way, it’s essential to be aware of the temperature of your water and take steps to keep it within the ideal range.
Clean Your Lines Often
If you want to keep your plumbing in top shape, it’s essential to clean your drains regularly. Over time, hair and soap can build up in the drains, causing a clog. When this happens, water can’t flow freely through the pipes and has to back up into the sink or tub. Water back up into the sink or tub can lead to significant problems, including water damage and mold growth.
It’s best to clean your drains every month to avoid the water damage and mold growth that can occur by lack of care. You can use a plunger to remove any visible build-up and flush the drain with hot water to dislodge any hidden debris. By taking this simple step, you can keep your plumbing flowing smoothly for years to come.
Avoid Letting Hair Go Down The Drain
Anyone with hair knows that it gets everywhere – in your food, clothes, and, most annoyingly, down the drain. While a few errant strands may not seem like a big deal, hair can build up over time and cause severe problems for your plumbing. It’s essential to take steps to prevent hair from going down the drain in the first place; this will help keep your drains flowing freely.
A straightforward way to do this is to invest in a drain cover or filter that will catch hair before it has a chance to enter the drain. Another solution is to opt for a low-flow showerhead, limiting the amount of water that flows through your pipes and reducing the likelihood of hair becoming detached from your head.
Get A Drain Snake
A drain snake is a versatile tool to clear clogs in drains and sewer lines. It consists of a long, flexible cable with a spiral of metal or plastic at the end. The cable is inserted into the drain or sewer line and then manually or mechanically rotated to break up the clog. Drain snakes are available in various sizes, so choosing one appropriate for your pipes’ diameter is vital. Additionally, you can go to your local hardware store to buy or even rent one. A regular drain snake can help keep your plumbing in top shape and avoid costly repairs.
Flush Your Lines
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems. It’s essential to flush them out regularly; this will help keep your lines flowing freely. The best way to do this is with a home line flusher. Line flushers are small, hand-held devices that attach to your faucet and spray a stream of water through the line to clear any build-up. You can find line flushers at most hardware stores or order one online.
To use a line flusher, attach it to your faucet and open the valve. Run the water for several minutes to flush out the line. If you have a very clogged line, you may need to repeat the process a few times to clear it. By flushing your lines regularly, you can keep them clear and prevent costly clog-related repairs.
Install A Water Softener
If you have hard water, you may experience problems with your plumbing, including scale build-up, rust, and corrosion. One way to combat these issues is to install a water softener. A water softener is a device that attaches to your plumbing system and removes the minerals that cause hardness. Removing the minerals that cause hardness will leave behind softer water that is less likely to cause damage to your pipes and fixtures. While a water softener can be an expensive investment, it can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs.
Conclusion
It’s essential to practice good habits to ensure your plumbing is in top shape. Practicing good plumbing habits include cleaning drains every month and avoiding letting hair go down the drain. We’ve also provided tips for keeping clogs from happening in the first place by installing a water softener, using a line flusher often enough to keep lines flowing freely, getting a drain snake if you need one, and more. If any of these ideas are new to you, be sure to try them out – they could save you a lot of time, money, and trouble.
