Plumbing emergencies always seem to strike at the worst times, don’t they?
A flooded basement or a burst pipe can quickly turn your day upside down not to mention drain your wallet.
Luckily, a little preparation and care can go a long way in avoiding these unexpected disasters. Today we will take a look at some simple steps to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape and to avoid costly plumbing emergencies.
1. Don’t Treat Your Drains Like a Trash Can
Your drains are not designed to handle everything! Avoid pouring grease, oils, or food scraps down the sink they can solidify and clog your pipes.
Similarly, only flush toilet paper and human waste flushing items like wet wipes, paper towels, or cat litter can lead to serious blockages and backups.
2. Fix Leaky Pipes Quickly
A dripping pipe might not seem like a big deal, but it’s a ticking time bomb. Even small leaks can cause water damage, mold growth, and increased utility bills.
Replacing or repairing leaky pipes as soon as you notice them can save you from a much bigger headache (and expense) later.
3. Know Your Shut-Off Valve
Do you know where your main water shut-off valve is? In the event of a burst pipe or major leak, shutting off the water supply immediately can minimize damage.
If you are not sure where it is, take some time out of your busy schedule to locate it and make sure it is easy to access.
4. Winterize Your Pipes
Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing. When water freezes, it expands, which can cause your pipes to crack or burst.
Insulate exposed pipes, drain outdoor faucets, and keep a trickle of water flowing during extreme cold to prevent freezing.
5. Keep Your Water Heater Clean
Sediment buildup in your water heater can reduce its efficiency and potentially cause damage.
Draining and flushing your water heater annually can help prevent issues and keep your hot water flowing efficiently. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, a plumber can handle it for you during a routine inspection.
6. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Sometimes, potential problems hide out of sight. Scheduling routine plumbing inspections ensures small issues are caught before they become big (and expensive) ones.
A professional plumber can check for hidden leaks, tree roots in your sewer line, or other issues that might not be immediately obvious.
Prevention Is Key!
Taking these simple steps can save you from the stress and expense of plumbing emergencies. Need help with maintenance or repairs? Contact HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Drains today! We are here to keep your plumbing running smoothly and your home safe.
