Plumbing problems can be quite a headache for a homeowner not familiar with how to fix plumbing. Hiring a professional can take way too long and cost way too much for a problem that probably could have been solved without a lot of trouble, if you only knew how. Keep reading to arm yourself with some very useful plumbing advice!
If your pipes are making a racket, there is a simple way to quiet them down. You must anchor all exposed pipes. Pipes that are contained within the floors, walls and ceilings may need to be attended by a professional plumber.
It’s easy to fix noisy pipes which squeak or sound like hammering. You simply have to securely fasten any pipes that are exposed. You might have to call a professional to help finish the project if pipes are in floors, ceiling or walls.
Septic Tank
Pump out your septic tank at least every five years to keep it in proper working condition. Septic systems can back up when the septic tank builds up sediment. This can even result in the septic system failing altogether. If the cost of pumping your septic tank seems a bit steep, remember that the cost of cleanup and repair of a failed septic system will be much higher.
Wait to give compensation to a plumber until they are finished with their work. It is customary to put down one-third to one-half of the total cost before the work is started, but do not pay in full until it is complete. This ensures that the plumber fully completes the job before getting paid.
Odor removers such as bleach toilets are not good for your plumbing system. These products will reduce the smell, but they will also cause problems with the rubber gaskets. Over time, the damage will accumulate and could eventually stop the toilet from functioning at all.
Get to know the tools and how they are used for the most success in plumbing. Read all of the equipment’s manuals and read up as much as you can on plumbing projects. When planning on repairs, plan on having a plan.
Check for softness in your floor to determine flood damage. An easy way to test for floor softness is by straddling the toilet and shifting your weight. If the floor feels soft when you do this, you have floor damage. Early detection of the problem may save you a great deal of money over time.
Garbage Disposal
If your home runs on well water and you notice any orange or pink stains in your fixtures or tub, this is because of iron in your water. You can use water softener that you buy at the store to remedy this situation, or you can have a professional do it for you.
To keep your garbage disposal lasting for a long time, make sure you clean it on a daily basis. By incorporating a regular cleaning routine, your garbage disposal can stay running smoothly. One way to clean your disposal is to run dish detergent and lemon rinds through your garbage disposal. As an added benefit, this technique will also eliminate any scents from your disposal.
Ensure overflow holes don’t have any debris in them. You may not even notice the overflow holes on your sink, but if you have a major water leak you will soon regret your apathy. Clean the overflow holes when you can, like when doing periodic checks for various other repairs and problems.
Trash should go in the trash basket, not the toilet. Use the toilet for what it is designed for, and it won’t give you a lot of problems. Don’t flush items like paper towels, sanitary napkins, diapers or cotton balls, because these items don’t break down and may cause clogging issues. Use the least amount of toilet paper you can when you use the toilet, too.
Each month, treat your drains by pouring one cup of baking soda down it, and then follow that with a cup of regular white vinegar. Cover the drain up with a plug or old rag, as there will be a chemical reaction in the pipes. Let that sit for a while, and then run boiling hot water down it. This procedure should be able to clear pipes of hair and soap scum.
If you have a shower head that needs replacing, be sure to get one that is good quality. There are some who think that low price is all that matters when buying fixtures for the bathroom. The problem about this is they aren’t sturdy and they tend to break a lot easier.
Enzyme-based cleaners are the best bet for unclogging stubborn clogged pipes. The natural enzymes in these cleaners dissolve the clog, turning it into liquid, freeing it from the pipes. The cleaners that have enzymes are the best you can buy.
Clean the buildup of sediment from your aerator to increase your water pressure if it’s low. Remove the aerator, and then take it apart so it can be cleaned with a brush that has been dipped in vinegar. Rinse and reassemble the aerator, then reattach it to your faucet. Removing obstructions from the aerator should allow for increased water pressure.
Choose enzyme based cleaners if your pipes get clogged. These cleaners use natural bacteria, which turns sludge into liquid and cleans your pipes. The cleaners which use enzymes are currently rated the best available.
Drain Cleaners
Try not to use drain cleaners too often, it at all. There are some harsh, corrosive chemicals found in these drain cleaners. That’s why they work so well to knock out clogs. Over time, they will corrode your pipes. Instead, if you still see your drain clogged up, you might need a professional plumber to come take a look and fix the problem.
If there is sewage backing up in your toilet, it is probably due to blockage in a branch between the sewage and main lines. Get help from a professional. A plumber will run a snake in the line to clear it.
Frozen pipes are on of the most expensive plumbing problems. Fortunately, frozen pipes are easy to prevent. The most important step is to keep any pipes close to the outside, well insulated. When it gets cooler, drain and disconnect the hoses and shut off your outside faucet. This can save some serious money on pipe repairs over time.
When searching for a reliable contractor, you should first consult an institution that specializes in consumer affairs. This way, you can see that their licenses are valid and the status of any complaints that have been made about their work. You don’t want to hire anyone who is not in good standing and has an expired, or non-existent, license.
As you can see, plumbing problems don’t have to be so difficult. If you can solve the problem yourself, you can save time waiting for a plumber, as well as saving a whole lot of money. Try applying what you’ve learned from this article next time you have a plumbing problem!