Plumbing maintenance is an important aspect of home ownership that should not be taken lightly. If you ignore it, the system can fail— leaving you without running water or worse, a sewage backup. If the unexpected costs of repairing neglected plumbing don't provide you with enough motivation, think about potential additional costs that may come with a plumbing disaster. For example, you could be facing the cost of replacing flooring, walls, baseboards, furniture and cabinetry. Start the New Year off right by maintaining your home's plumbing system before it fails. Here's how:
The Basics
All visible plumbing should be inspected to ensure it is working properly. Look for any signs of corrosion. These areas would include sink drains, shut-off valves, supply lines, faucets and hose bibs. If you notice any signs of leakage or corrosion around pipes and fittings, you should contact your plumber immediately to head off looming disaster.
Test Water Pressure
Ask your plumber to test your home's water pressure. Weak pressure is a sure sign of sediment buildup in your fixtures or worse, in your water line. Galvanized pipes are known for corrosion buildup on the inside of the pipe. Not only will this reduce water flow, but it will also introduce metallic contaminants into your water supply.
Test Drain Efficiency
A slow drain is a sure sign of future trouble. The problem could be as simple as a dirty pop-up assembly in your bathroom basin or as serious as an obstructed or collapsing sewer line. It is imperative that you identify the cause and make repairs before your plumbing fails.
Water Heater Maintenance
To maintain peak performance and efficiency, you should have your water heater flushed at least once a year. This is especially true in areas with poor water quality or for homes that use private wells. Sediment, iron, and scale can wreak havoc on a water heater. Flushing it removes buildup. Removing buildup is good because buildup impedes on a water heater's operation and reduces its lifespan.
Don't Forget the Washer
As mentioned above, you should inspect all supply lines and shut-off valves for signs of wear/to ensure they are working properly. This includes the supply lines, drain hoses and shut-off valves for the washing machine as well. Often, people forget to turn them off until it is too late—meaning the basement or laundry room is already flooded. Older washing machine supply hoses are made of rubber and are notorious for rupturing. Ask your plumber about installing the new, steel braided lines with built-in flood protection. These lines will protect against catastrophic water damage caused by bursted, ruptured or broken water supply lines.
Performing annual plumbing maintenance is a win for both your home and for your wallet. For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
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