An overflowing kitchen sink can be one of the most annoying sights for anybody. Fixing it is a messy and time taking process. Once the drain is unclogged and water starts running you have to deal with water damages. Any of your plumbing fixtures can take you through the routine.
A healthy plumbing system is an integral part of a happy and healthy home. If you often find yourself searching for nearby plumbers, poor maintenance can be a possible reason. In some cases, some underlying issue is causing the inconvenience and you end up spending hundreds, if not thousands, on plumbing services.
Here Are 8 Easy Ways To Avoid Plumbing Emergencies In Your Home.
1. Keep An Eye Out For Leaky Toilets
Toilet leaks are one of the most common plumbing failures. You may be wasting thousands of gallons of water without knowing. It is not only unsafe for the environment but may cost you thousands of dollars on utility bills. It is best to keep an eye out for leaky toilets before cause havoc.
The easiest way to check toilet leaks is to use a dye or food coloring. Put a few drops of the food coloring in the water tank and wait for a few hours. If you see streaks of colors in the pot, it is time to replace the flush valve. It takes only a few dollars.
2. Use Your Water Meter To Detect Hidden Leaks
Water leaks may be hidden in the wall pipes or unnoticed for years under the ground. If you want to save yourself from the expense and inconvenience, it is best to conduct a leak test. Your water meter can be used to check the leaks without digging up the ground or walls.
Pick a day when you will be leaving the house for a few hours. Make sure there is no water running from the faucets. Shut off the connections to house appliances. You can also shut off the main valve and get it done in one go. Note down the measurement on the water meter.
At your return, the reading should be the same. If you see a difference, there is some plumbing leak in the house. Hire a reliable professional to get it checked.
3. Clean The Sinks Regularly
Bathroom sinks are mostly clogged by hair and soap residue. You floss thread may also be the culprit! The clogs can be lead to serious plumbing issues. Smart homeowners install strainers to minimize the chances of clogs. If any hair finds its way into the drain, use a dry or wet vacuum to remove them. A drain snake is another handy device used to remove hair gunk.
4. Never Pour Down Grease Down The Kitchen Sink
Your kitchen sink needs the most attention when it comes to plumbing maintenance. Grease and fats in the sink pipes can lead to serious blockages. Use high-quality strainers to minimize the risk of pipe clogs.
One of the most effective ways to clean the kitchen sinks is to flush it with hot water every once in a while. Hot water can melt away the grease and open the pipes.
If hot water fails, use white vinegar and baking soda. Pour in a cup of baking soda and chase it down with a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain for half an hour. Let the chemicals react and soften the gunk blocking the pipe. Now flush the pipe wit hot (not boiling) water. You can repeat the process until the pipe is cleared.
5. Learn About The Main Shut Off Valve
You can save thousands of dollars by learning the location of the single most important valve of your plumbing system. The main shit off valve should be accessible so that it can easily be closed to prevent further water damages. As it controls the flow of all water in your home, make sure it is in the best shape.
Test the valve to make sure it completely halts the water supply to your home. If you see any leaks in the valve, replace it before you need it.
6. Check The Laundry Connection
The laundry connection is one of the most common causes of plumbing failures. The rubber connection hoses can have tiny cracks that easily go unnoticed. This dangerously weak link in the system can break and rush thousands of gallons of water in your home within no time. Keep a schedule to check these hoses for blisters and cracks.
7. Inspect The Water Heater
Your water heater is another potential point for water leakages especially when it is older than 15 years. Look for any water puddles around the water heater. Search for ” plumbers near me ” to see if it needs repair or replacement. Remember ” A stitch in time, saves nine”.
