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5 Ways to Avoid Plumbing Issues

A few quick tips for avoiding home plumbing issues.

By Regina ThomasPublished 2 years ago 3 min read
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Plumbing issues tend to crop up at the least opportune moment and can lead to several problems. This is because there are so many moving pieces in a given system, as well as so much water flowing through those pieces. If even one piece goes wrong, it can lead to faulty functions and issues. Below are five ways to avoid plumbing issues.

1. Inspection

Having an inspection done on your plumbing at least once every year is vital in avoiding any problems down the road with your system. You can do this by booking an appointment with a local plumber who will be able to inspect your system and let you know if there are any potential issues that need attention.

Sometimes plumbers use rods with cameras on them to inspect the inside of the sewer line. This is part of the routine inspection process for all sewer lines to find potential problems before they become serious enough for professional service.

An inspection can help you to

Identify any faults that may crop up before they become serious problems.

Get an idea of what type of repairs your system may need soon.

Learn about how well your system is working and ways to make it more efficient.

2. Maintain a regular schedule for small repairs

Always have an emergency plumber on your speed dial but also remember that there are quick repairs that you can do on your own to avoid requiring professional service.

A regular maintenance schedule can:

Reduce the need for major repairs.

Keep your system running smoothly.

Minimize damage to the system.

3. Annual maintenance on your water heater

Having a yearly inspection on your water heater is important in avoiding any potential leaks or other failures. You can do this by having a second party come in and inspect your water heater. If you maintain a regular schedule for small repairs, it should only take one-half hour of your time.

4. Regularly check for debris around your system

It is important to always check your outside piping for any foreign intruders or objects that could cause a failure in the system down the line. This includes checking under trees, trash cans, and other items that could cause a blockage or other problems.

5. Ensure proper ventilation for all of your bathrooms and kitchens

Proper ventilation is important to avoid the buildup of toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide. This can happen when pipes are not appropriately ventilated and gas is allowed to build, which can lead to poisoning of the occupants in the case of carbon monoxide.

When you ventilate your system

You can prevent gas buildup.

You can reduce the risk of harmful gases being inhaled.

You increase your safety and that of those around you by ensuring carbon monoxide cannot build up in a room or house.

Your system will work more efficiently as it is not overworked due to a lack of ventilation

Your appliances will last longer.

Your system may use less energy as it is efficiently running due to proper ventilation.

What To Avoid

Using harsh chemicals for unclogging pipes

These can potentially damage the system and also affect other items in your home, such as water safe fixtures, tubs, and more.

Pouring grease down the drain

This can ultimately lead to clogs in your system, costing thousands of dollars to repair when requiring professional service.

Having any leaks in your home

Even a tiny leak that is left unrepaired could lead to costly problems in the future, such as mold and water damage.

Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet

This can lead to hazardous blockages in your system, which are expensive to repair when professional service is required.

Having your plumbing inspected at least once a year can help you detect problems before they become serious. Regularly scheduled minor repairs might help to minimize the need for major repairs.

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