Three Ways Homeowners Can Prevent Plumbing Problems

Plumbing Tips to Help Avoid Issues This Summer

Nobody wants to be caught off-guard by a plumbing disaster during their summer. But how can homeowners help prevent issues from arising? The best way to avoid a plumbing emergency is to try and prevent common problems and promptly address plumbing issues as they arise, and this post will share some ways homeowners can do this. 

Knowing the Signs of a Plumbing Leak 

Leaks need immediate professional help. They will not get better with time. If anything, they can worsen and cause significant water damage and spikes in the water bill. Some signs of a leak include: 

• Higher-than-average water bills 
• The sound of running water (when there isn’t water being used) 
• Water stains on the ceilings, walls, floors, or near the baseboards 
• Poor water pressure 
• Puddles or wet spots in the yard 

Another way to identify a water leak is by using the water meter. Homeowners can check the water meter and note the reading. Then after a period of no water being used, they can check the water meter again. If it has changed, there is likely a leak. Rather than ignore a leak, homeowners should immediately consult a plumber for leak detection services to locate and repair the leak. 

Not Putting Certain Substances Down the Drains 

There are certain things that homeowners should never pour or flush down the drains and, instead, dispose of in the trash to prevent clogs. Per the EPA, people should only flush toilet paper and should never flush items like: 

• Menstruation products 
• Plastics
• Any type of wipes
• Tissues, napkins, and paper towels 
• Diapers  
• Medications 
• Cotton balls or swabs 

Additionally, food scraps, cooking oil, and grease should be kept out of the drains and instead disposed of in the garbage to prevent clogs. Fat, oils, and grease can harden and build up in the pipes, catching any other debris and food scraps it can find to cause clogs and other complications that can arise because of clogs. 

Here’s another thing homeowners might be surprised to learn is harmful to the plumbing system: store-bought drain cleaners. Using chemical drain cleaners to remove a clog may serve as a temporary fix that could, in the long run, damage the pipes. When in doubt about what to do about a clog, one should consult a professional. 

Regularly Consulting a Plumber for Maintenance

Routine plumbing maintenance and drain cleaning by a plumber are essential to ensure that the plumbing system remains in good condition. Without regular check-ups and inspections, the plumbing system can experience more frequent problems, causing major damage and resulting in costly repairs. 

Drain cleaning helps keep drains and pipes clean and clear so that water flows freely through them without obstruction, and during maintenance, a plumber is trained to identify potential problems with the system and can advise on the best course of action for dealing with them. The plumber can also fix any plumbing-related issues before they become major problems, thus saving both time and money in the long run.

About Plumb Perfect Plumbing 

Plumb Perfect Plumbing is a residential and commercial plumbing company serving Fredericksburg, VA, and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rate pricing, financing, and seven days a week service. Call them today for plumbing maintenance and drain cleaning in Fredericksburg, VA.  

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