How To Combat Plumbing Issues
Summer should be about grilling, days at the pool, and fun in the sun. It shouldn't be a time filled with stress and anxiety about plumbing problems. Thankfully, there are some things homeowners can do to reduce the likelihood of clogs, leaks, and other problems. Some of these considerations include:
Inspecting Pipes for Cracks and Leaks
Like most life problems, plumbing problems don't go away independently. This makes it important for homeowners to be vigilant and constantly monitor their plumbing system for cracks, leaks, and mold growth.
Any of these things can point to an underlying problem that wastes water and drains a homeowner's wallet. Once a month, homeowners should look for problems in these areas:
- Under the sink: Homeowners rarely see what's happening underneath their bathroom or kitchen sinks. This makes it easy for certain problems to go undetected for long periods.
- Around the toilet's base: Toilets can last for decades. That is, when homeowners regularly maintain them and promptly address leaks.
- Around the hose: When the hose is off, no water should come out of the faucet. Even if the hose has a light trickle when turned off, this could signify a growing problem.
Some signs of leaks and cracks include poor water pressure, higher-than-average water bills, and foul smells around sinks' drains.
Not Pouring Grease or Fats Down the Drain
Per the Nipomo Community Services District, people should refrain from pouring FOGs down the drain. The acronym stands for fats, oil, and grease. Each of these things can wreak havoc on a plumbing system. Instead, they should pour these substances into a container, then throw that container in the garbage.
If homeowners makes a habit of pouring FOGs down their home's drains, they risk:
- Clogs: FOGs can build up in a plumbing system over time, causing hard-to-remove clogs. What's worse, when these substances mix with hot water, they can congeal and affect how the drain works.
- Creating a fatberg: Every community has a sewer system. When FOGs mix in the sewer system, they bind together and create fatbergs. These blobs can affect multiple homes' plumbing systems.
- Breaking the law: Many communities in California have explicit laws against pouring FOGs down the drain. It's considered a form of dumping, which can lead to fines if convicted.
Flushing Drains and Keeping Them Free of Debris
Flushing drains does more than prevent pipe clogs and other plumbing disasters; it also keeps the sink sanitary. This prevents mold growth and unpleasant smells. Some techniques for flushing drains include:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain
Pour half a cup of vinegar down the drain
Cover the drain
Wait 15 minutes
Pour hot water down the drain
Homeowners should steer clear of chemical drain cleaners. These substances can "eat away" at a pipe's insides, increasing the likelihood of rust, corrosion, and leaks.
About Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc
Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc has served its community since 1999. These specialists offer more than preventative maintenance tips; they offer same-day service, easy scheduling, and much more. Interested parties in Monterey, CA, can call these experts today for plumbing services!
