Every homeowner will run into questions about plumbing, every now and then. Many of us want to be knowledgeable on how to make plumbing repairs, should any issues arise. This article will give you the information that you need for when those plumbing emergencies arise.
You should make sure not to put oils down the drain, such as grease and fat. These substances will create clogs after cooling in your drain. As an owner of a garbage disposal, this is important because the blades will stop working if they have fat on them. To keep your kitchen pipes clear, never dispose of grease down your sink drain.
Make a schedule for plumbing work, so it occurs all at approximately the same time. This allows you to save up for necessary parts and equipment while saving money on hiring a professional. It can also save money since most plumbers will charge you by the hour. Coming out just once will cut down on the time it takes, making your bill smaller.
Pour equal parts baking soda followed by vinegar down your bathtub drain once a month. Afterward, place a washcloth or towel over the top of the drain, to keep the chemical reactions contained. Wait for a bit, then flush with boiling water. Doing this periodically should keep your pipes free of hair and soap scum.
Overflow Holes
Check your fixtures to ensure the overflow holes are clear of debris and mineral build-up. Overflows holes can be used in the event the sink overfills, which is a big problem if they are clogged. Clean the overflow holes when you can, like when doing periodic checks for various other repairs and problems.
If the hose that leads to your kitchen sink has not been maintained or installed properly, you may notice that water is constantly draining to the dishwasher. The hose that runs from your kitchen sink to your dishwasher needs to be positioned uphill, and then bend back downhill to prevent the water from each device mixing.
Don’t treat your toilet like a garbage can if you want to avoid a lot of potential plumbing problems. Avoid flushing pads, cotton, towels, tissues or anything that cannot dissolve easily to avoid plugging the pipes. You will also want to use the least amount of toilet paper as required.
Cheap Shower
Make sure a new shower head is of high quality. People often times incorrectly believe that it’s alright to buy a cheap shower head. Cheap shower heads are not well-made and are very likely to break. Buying a cheap shower head will end up costing you more money over the long-term.
Fix issues related to low water pressure that are a result of a buildup of sediment by cleansing the aerator. Disassemble the fixture to remove the aerator, and then scrub it with vinegar and a small brush. Rinse your aerator, put it back together and back into the faucet. This will improve the water pressure by clearing out blockages in the aerator.
Drain Cleaners
Don’t rely on drain cleaners too much. Compounds that are ingredients in common drain cleaners are quite corrosive and can cause pipe damage if overused. If you find that your drain is clogged, think about hiring a plumber to do a estimate and tell you what the issue is.
Though you may have no option as to which plumber comes, you can research them at any rate. If your insurer has just given you the name of a plumber, see if they have a website, read any testimonials and other feedback so you know what to expect once they arrive at your home.
Investigate the history of a plumber before hiring them. Hiring a plumber who is not experienced enough for your problem could make the situation worse. It is always a good idea to get referrals from friends or family members, or to check out reviews about any plumber you are thinking about hiring.
Learn about the subject before you have a problem. Routine maintenance on your home plumbing can prevent future problems from arising. Remember the tips in this article to be able to handle your plumbing at home.