Plumbing is an essential part of any home, but many homeowners often take it for granted. From a leaky faucet to a clogged drain, plumbing issues can be both frustrating and expensive to fix. However, by keeping a few easy tips in mind for maintaining your home’s plumbing and recognizing warning signs of potential problems, you can prevent bigger issues from developing. In this post, we’ll share our top home plumbing tips and warning signs to look for, so you can keep your home plumbing running smoothly.
Don’t put anything harmful in the toilet or drain
Your toilet isn’t a substitute for a garbage can, so avoid flushing items like baby wipes, cotton swabs, and dental floss, which can clog your pipes and cause bigger problems down the line. Stick to flushing toilet paper and human waste only.
Know where your shutoff valves are:
Knowing where your main shutoff valve is located, along with the individual shut-offs for different fixtures in your home, can prevent a plumbing emergency from getting out of hand. In the event of a burst pipe or other unexpected plumbing issue, you can quickly turn off the water supply to minimize water damage. Contact a plumber in London, Ontario to repair your plumbing system.
Watch for warning signs of leaks:
A leaky faucet or showerhead might not seem like a big deal, but those drips can waste an enormous amount of water over time. Plus, leaking pipes or fixtures can lead to water damage in your home. If you notice dripping or pooling water anywhere in your home, call a plumber to have it checked out.
Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners:
While it might be tempting to pick up a bottle of chemical drain cleaner to fix a clog, these products can actually do more harm than good. They’re not only harmful to the environment, but they can also damage your pipes by corroding them over time. Instead, use a plunger or a drain snake to remove clogs, or call in a professional plumber for stubborn problems.
Schedule routine plumbing maintenance:
Just like your car needs periodic oil changes and tune-ups, your home plumbing system benefits from regular maintenance. Have a professional plumber inspect your pipes, fixtures, and appliances annually to catch any potential problems early and keep your plumbing running smoothly.
Maintaining your home plumbing doesn’t have to be difficult or overwhelming. By following these tips and keeping an eye out for warning signs of potential issues, you can keep your pipes and fixtures in top shape. Remember, prevention is key, so don’t wait until a minor plumbing problem becomes a major headache. Instead, take care of your plumbing system, and your home (and wallet) will thank you in the long run.