3 General Plumbing Maintenance Tips You Should Know
When it comes to plumbing maintenance tips, the list could probably go on and on. Every homeowner must take certain precautions and perform certain maintenance tasks to prolong the life of their plumbing and prevent plumbing problems from happening. And, while you cannot completely prevent every potential plumbing problem, if you are consistent with your general plumbing maintenance, it will pay off over time.
3 General Plumbing Maintenance Tips You Should Know
Never Ignore a Slow Drain
A slow drain is a drain that takes longer than it should for water to go down. When you wash your face, brush your teeth, or take a bath you may notice that water is sitting in the sink a little longer than normal before it rinses down. A slow drain usually starts off as something minor which makes it tempting to ignore. But, as anyone who has ever had a slow drain knows – the problem will not go away. A slow drain is a sign that there is a blockage in your plumbing. It could be hair, grease, dirt, debris or some other unknown but whatever it is, it needs to be dealt with. It is always better to clean a slow drain as soon as you see it because it will be much easier to clean than if you let it go. If left to build, it will likely mean that you need to call a plumber to deal with the problem.
Fix Leaks As Soon as You See Them
If you ever see a leak from a faucet or any other plumbing it is best to fix it right away. If the leak is outside of the sink, tub or shower you run the risk of it damaging walls or flooring and even causing mold which will grow to a very costly and frustrating problem. And, even if it is a tiny leak in places like your shower, tub, or sink, it adds up over time and you are paying for all of that wasted water!
Do Not Put Things Down the Drain That Don’t Below There
The list of things that should not go down your drains is very long and unless there is a garbage disposal, little other than water should be going down the drain. For toilets, only water, toilet paper, and human waste should go down the toilet. In the shower, it is ideal that only water and soap products go down the drain. There are many devices that can be used to prevent hair from going down the drain which will lead to a clog. When it comes to the sink, only water and certain liquids should go down the drain unless you have a garbage disposal. In that case, only softer, non-starchy foods should go down the drain. Never put grease, oil, bones, fibrous foods, pasta, bread, egg shells, carrots, celery, coffee grounds, fruit pits, artichokes, asparagus, and more down your drain.