Every homeowner dreads the thought of a significant plumbing disaster. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also come with a hefty price tag for repairs and damages.
The good news is, most plumbing catastrophes can be avoided with proactive maintenance and taking care of small issues before they escalate into full-blown problems. This blog will guide you through five simple home plumbing repairs that could save you from major headaches down the line.
Catch Leaks Early with Regular Inspections
Small leaks might not always make themselves known through visual signs at first. Instead of waiting for pools of water to appear under your sink or on your flooring, commit to regularly checking for leaks in your plumbing system.
Inspect areas like under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances connected to water supplies. Look for signs such as water stains, mold growth, or a musty smell, which could indicate hidden leaks.
Invest in Professional Drain Cleaning
Clogged drains are a common problem that many people try to fix with store-bought drain cleaners. While these might work for minor blockages, they can cause more harm than good when used frequently. Many chemical cleaners are corrosive and can damage your pipes over time.
A professional drain cleaning service, on the other hand, ensures any build-up or blockage is cleared correctly without compromising your pipes. Clean pipes reduce the chances of slow drainage, bad odors, or pipe bursts caused by intense clog pressure.
Pay Attention to Water Pressure
Low or high water pressure might seem like a minor annoyance, but both scenarios can indicate underlying issues in your plumbing. Low water pressure may result from blockages in your system from sediment or leaks, while high water pressure can stress your pipes and lead to bursts over time.
Using a simple water pressure gauge, you can determine if your home’s water pressure falls within a safe range (typically 40–60 PSI). If your water pressure is outside this range, adjustments can easily be made by a professional to avoid future problems.
Don’t Overlook Water Heater System Repair and Maintenance
Your water heater works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep your showers warm and your dishes clean. Overlooking its maintenance can lead to sediment build-up, reduced efficiency, and untimely breakdowns. A failing water heater is not just inconvenient; it can also drive up your energy bills.
Simple Water Heater System Repair and maintenance actions such as flushing the tank annually to eliminate sediment, checking the pressure valve, and inspecting for leaks can do wonders for its efficiency and longevity.
Prepare for Plumbing Emergencies
Plumbing emergencies don’t come with warnings, but being prepared for minor fixes can stop them from becoming bigger problems. For example, knowing how to shut off your home’s water supply can be lifesaving during a pipe burst.
Similarly, having basic repair tools, such as a plumbing wrench or sealant, can help you manage a situation until professional help arrives. Simple proactive measures like insulating exposed plumbing in colder months can prevent costly burst pipes during the freezing season.
