Owning a new home is an exciting adventure full of possibilities. However, owning a new home also means learning to plumb in a new home. That said, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with a few plumbing tips. The following must-see facts will make your homeownership run much more smoothly.
Locate Shut-Off Valves
Familiarize yourself with the shut-off valves on all of your appliances, sinks and toilets. They’re usually knobs or valves that enable you to turn off the water at the source, if necessary. If the valve on the appliance or sink or toilet is broken, it’s necessary to shut off the water at the main water shut-off valve. Have a plumbing professional show you where the main valve is located. Ask them how to properly shut it down in case there’s ever an emergency.
Check Major Appliances
Dishwashers and laundry machines are best used during hours when you aren’t bathing or doing outdoor watering. Why? If you use appliances during off hours, you’ll allow the machines to have better water pressure—and as a result, you’ll have cleaner dishes and clothing. Periodically have a plumbing professional check all of the hoses and valves on your machines to ensure that there are no leaks and that everything is twisted tight. This will ensure proper functionality.
Take Care of Your Garbage Disposal
To keep your garbage disposal running in tip-top shape, never put anything in it that will strain the machine (like bones or banana peels). Overloading the disposal with hard to grind food will compromise it and may clog your drain. Always run cold water down the drain for 15 seconds before turning on the garbage disposal and continue with cold water for a few seconds after the grinding is complete.
Keep Drains Clear
Hair and grease/oil are the two top culprits when it comes to drains that clog. When soap scum builds up, hair tends to be a problem. Have a plumbing professional clear these items out of your bathroom drains periodically.
Kitchen sinks are notorious for clogging from grease and oil. Avoid putting oils and grease down the drain because they will congeal and build up in the pipes until they back up. Consider using a strainer in the sink, as this prevents a lot of food buildup in the drain. Have a plumbing professional come and clean out your kitchen drain if it is starting to run slowly.
Consider Proper Toilet Care
Avoid flushing anything but toilet paper down the toilet. If you have problem drains, it’s suggested that you only use septic-safe toilet paper, as it degrades quickly and helps prevent back-up. Ensure that toilets flush properly and that they refill quickly. If you suspect that you have a problem with a toilet (this includes leaks) consult with a plumbing professional. They’ll repair any problems.
Now that you know the basics regarding plumbing tips, you can safeguard the drains in your new home. For expert plumbing services, contact The Pink Plumber today.
