Every day, you depend on your plumbing system to bring in fresh water, heat it up for washing and distribute it around the house.
Without proper care and maintenance, your plumbing system may suffer from leaks, clogs, rust and other issues that can result in expensive repair costs. By following these tips, you can ensure that your plumbing is in top condition for years to come.
Check for Leaks
One of the most important things you can do to keep your plumbing system running efficiently is to check for leaks. These tiny puddles of water can add up quickly and cost you money if left unchecked.
To test for a leak, shut off all water-using appliances and check the position of your water meter dial. If the dials haven’t moved after about 30 minutes, you’re probably leak-free!
However, if your water bill has increased recently but you have seen no changes in usage or the meter dials haven’t moved, you may have a hidden water leak. This could be inside or underground, but it should be fixed right away to avoid costly water damage.
Update Your Fixtures
Having the right plumbing fixtures and fittings is key to maintaining your home’s plumbing system. Old, outdated fixtures can be a safety hazard and cause leaks and other issues.
Newer fixtures are also energy efficient and use less water than their predecessors. Upgrading to an energy efficient faucet can save you money on your utility bill every month.
The right lighting fixture can also make a big difference in the aesthetics of your home. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your entryway or upgrade your kitchen lighting, it’s a project that will make a noticeable difference in your space. The best part is, upgrading your light fixtures is a relatively cheap and easy home improvement project. It’s also an excellent way to wow potential buyers when you decide to sell your house.
Clean Your Pipes
You might not think about your home plumbing much, but these pipes and fittings are essential to delivering water and eliminating waste. Without a little regular care, they can become damaged and costly to repair.
Cleaning your pipes and fittings is easy, and you can do it yourself with a few simple materials. You’ll need rubbing alcohol, a plastic bag that seals shut, paper clips, dish soap, and table salt.
The simplest way to clean your pipes is to soak them in boiling water for 20-30 minutes. You can also use denture tablets or a solution that bubbles, such as baking soda and vinegar. These require a longer soaking time, but they can be more effective at getting rid of residue in your glass pipe.
Check Your Water Meter
Your water meter is a great tool to use for leak detection and water usage monitoring. The meter measures the volume of water used and records every reading.
Some meters also have a flow indicator that will spin whenever a low flow is detected. This indicates that water is running somewhere in your plumbing system and may need repair. A plumber in Melbourne can assist you with taking care of a plumbing system.
To check for a leak, turn off all faucets and water-using appliances (like showers and sinks). Watch the sweep hand or leak detector dials to see if they move when there is no use of water inside your home.
Digital meters have a display that alternates between a meter read and the rate of water flow in gallons per minute. This information can help you determine if there is a leak in your home or outside.
Avoid Clogs
Clogged drains can be a real pain to deal with. They can be smelly and unsanitary, and they often lead to leaks and sewage backup in your home.
But if you take care of your plumbing system properly, clogs are less likely to occur. You will be able to prevent these issues before they happen, and they are usually much easier to fix.
A few simple, inexpensive methods can go a long way toward keeping your plumbing system clean and running smoothly. Follow these tips to avoid clogs in your kitchen, bathroom, and shower. These simple steps will keep your plumbing system working well for years to come!
