If you own a home, then you know a key part of homeownership is caring for and maintaining your home's plumbing system.
While there are licensed professionals to handle much of the work that needs to be done, there are a few things you can do to maintain your home's plumbing between check-ups with your friendly neighborhood plumber.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals in your pipes. The chemicals poured down your toilet (including bleach or those blue odor-removing tablets) can erode the rubber parts in the toilet, which means you'll need to replace them if they degrade too much. Additionally, you could cause very serious injury to yourself or a plumber if they are working on the pipes and those chemicals splash out of the pipes and get into their eyes or on their skin.
- If your pipes squeak or knock, consider anchoring them with clips or brackets. Do not drill holes in your plumbing! Instead, use clips or brackets to secure the pipes to beams and joists in your home. If the pipes are inaccessible to you, consider hiring a plumber for assistance.
- Keep an eye out for your floor (especially in your basement and around your toilet and sink) for water. It could indicate a leak, and you'll want to address it promptly before the issue worsens. Some leaks are simple fixes that require a small repair, while others may necessitate a more substantial effort. A plumber can help you locate the source of the leak and recommend quick and simple fixes.
- Avoid putting any fats, oils, or grease down the drain. These substances can harden and cause pipe blockages, resulting in a significant and costly mess on your floor. Dispose of household trash in your garbage, and locate a local grease/oil depot to dispose of these substances. Occasionally, dump boiling water down your drains to clear any fat or cooking oil that may have been inadvertently poured down the drain.
- Keep other household drains clear by pouring a cup of baking soda down your drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Do this monthly to help agitate any debris or build-up. Repeat if necessary. Flush with a pot of boiling water (be careful not to splash yourself when pouring).
- Use an inexpensive "hair catcher" (available at most dollar stores) to prevent hair from clogging your drain and accumulating in your pipes.
- If you live in an area that can get below freezing during the winter, make sure you turn off your water and drain your pipes before you leave for an extended period of time (such as a winter vacation). That way, if your house freezes, it won't cause a pipe burst from frozen water.
Summary
Owning a home is a great privilege and a quintessential part of the American Dream. However, it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining it. These simple tips will help you keep your home's plumbing (and your home) in tip-top shape! If you need assistance, don't hesitate to contact Smith Plumbing of Manhattan, KS, for all your plumbing needs.