Most people don’t think about plumbing maintenance until disaster strikes. We all know how much of a hassle plumbing issues can be; that’s why regular maintenance is so important!
Like other aspects of your home, your plumbing system requires regular care and attention to function at its best. Think of it like going to the dentist for a routine check-up– you wouldn’t skip those, would you?
Similarly, taking the time to follow a routine plumbing maintenance checklist saves you many potential headaches. It also helps you avoid emergency plumbing situations that could result in costly repairs. It ensures your system remains trouble-free, efficient and long-lasting.
Essential Plumbing Maintenance Tips For a Trouble-Free System
Routine plumbing maintenance can save you a ton of time, money and hassle. At Drain Magic, we recommend you schedule a comprehensive plumbing inspection annually. However, there is some general maintenance you can do yourself to ensure your system is in tip-top condition.
So, let’s dive into the five key plumbing maintenance tips every homeowner should know.
1. Regular Inspection
It’s important to keep up with regular inspections of your plumbing system. This will help you identify and address any potential problems before they become bigger issues.
Not only do they help detect obvious problems like leaks and blockages, but they also spot the less apparent issues. An inspection might unveil a subtle shift in your pipe alignment due to soil erosion or house settling over time. This could eventually lead to burst pipes.
Inspections can also reveal slow drains, pipe corrosion, and other seemingly small issues. However, these minor issues often lead to big disasters when left unchecked!
Are you suspecting a leak in your home? Learn how to detect them here.
By catching these issues early, you can save money and avoid the need for emergency plumbing services.
2. Avoid Pouring Grease Down The Drain
Grease and fats are two things you should never pour down the drain! Pouring grease down the drain might seem convenient, but it can result in a plumbing nightmare.
When fats and grease cool down, they solidify, building up over time and causing pipe blockages. This disrupts the smooth operation of your plumbing system and leads to potential backups and overflows. Even if you run hot water down the drain after pouring grease, it only pushes the grease farther down the pipe.
The best way to dispose of fats and grease is to pour them into a heat-resistant container. Allow them to cool and solidify, and then throw the container in the trash. This simple practice can save you from a lot of future plumbing troubles. If you haven’t maintained your drain properly, learn how often to schedule drain cleaning services here.
3. Proper Use of The Garbage Disposal
Correctly using your garbage disposal can extend its life, making it a reliable part of your plumbing system.
While throwing anything and everything into it is tempting, certain items can damage the blades or cause clogs. For instance, stringy or fibrous foods can get tangled around the disposal’s blades, hampering its operation. Avoid putting starchy or expandable food like pasta and rice, which can swell with water and create blockages. Hard items like bones or fruit pits can dull or even break the blades.
Remember to run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to help flush the waste through the pipes. By using your garbage disposal correctly, you can prevent unnecessary wear and tear and keep it running efficiently for years.
4. Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners may seem like they are doing a good job cleaning up your pipes. In reality, they can be quite damaging. They contain harsh chemicals that can corrode metal pipes and leave behind a residue that can cause clogs.
Instead, consider using natural solutions such as vinegar and baking soda. This can effectively clean your pipes without causing damage. By avoiding chemical drain cleaners, you protect your pipes from premature degradation and ensure a healthier plumbing system.
5. Hire a Professional Plumbing Service
It’s important to have a professional plumbing service inspect your home periodically to make sure everything is running smoothly. A good plumber will be able to identify any issues and offer solutions for how to fix them.
At Drain Magic, we’re your go-to plumbing service provider. Our team of experts is here to inspect, repair, or replace any of your plumbing needs. We have the experience and knowledge necessary to keep your plumbing system running at its best. Book an appointment for a thorough inspection!
