3 Easy Preventative Maintenance Tips For Your Plumbing

The most effective way to keep your plumbing in good condition is to prevent leaks, clogs, and other problems from occurring as much as possible. Preventative plumbing maintenance can save you the expense of serious plumbing repairs or water damage cleanup down the road. Here are three easy preventative maintenance tips for your plumbing.

1. Use Your Drains Carefully

The first tip for preventative plumbing maintenance is less about what you should do and more about what you don't do. There are certain products and types of food waste that you should never put down your drains, even if you have a garbage disposal. Avoid pouring grease into your drains, as it can harden inside your plumbing. Foods such as pasta, coffee grounds, and stringy vegetable skins can also contribute to clogs.

Most plumbers would agree that chemical drain cleaners do more harm than good. Chemical cleaners may remove some clogs, but they can also corrode the inside of your plumbing pipes with regular use. Worse yet, there are many types of clogs that chemical cleaners can't dissolve that can only be removed with a drain snake.

2. Monitor Water Hardness and Pressure

Hard water contains high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. Hard water leaves chalky mineral stains in sinks, appliances, and plumbing pipes. Mineral buildup from hard water can cause clogs in your plumbing over time. Most homes in the U.S. experience hard water, so keep an eye out for hard water residue. If the problem persists, your plumbing may benefit from installing a whole-home water softener system.

In addition to hardness, the pressure of your water supply can have an impact on the health of your plumbing. High water pressure can cause leaks by wearing faucets, valves, and seals in your plumbing. If your water pressure is too high, you may hear a banging sound, known as water hammer, when you turn off a faucet. Purchase a pressure gauge and test your water pressure frequently so you can avoid damage from undetected high pressure.

3. Schedule Routine Plumbing Check-ups

Regular plumbing check-ups from a professional will give you the most complete picture of the health of your plumbing. Many plumbing contractors offer maintenance plans that feature regular drain cleanings and leak detection. Advanced services like video plumbing inspection and hydro jetting allow plumbers to spot hard-to-find issues and remove even the most stubborn clogs.

Preventative maintenance and professional service help you catch plumbing problems before they start. Use these tips so you aren't caught by surprise by a burst pipe or drain backup!

Share