We rarely think about the plumbing system of our houses. But it is a fact that they need to be maintained regularly for optimum performance. Regular maintenance can prolong the life of the plumbing system and make sure that you have fewer repairs over time.
One of the most common problems that we face on a day to day basis is blocked drains. Nowadays you can find chemical products to clear away drains but they have a few harmful effects. For example, they can cause the erosion of cast-iron pipes if used long-term. And also the problem will not be taken care of completely, therefore, the drain can become blocked again. This will lead to leaky pipes. You can attend to this problem by yourself by clearing the drain with a snake.
You should know how to prevent clogged drains in the future. Make sure you don’t put leftover food in the kitchen sink. Throw the food items away to a trash can and then proceed to wash the dishes in the sink. You should never put liquid grease down the sink. The safer way to dispose of it is to seal it in a container and putting it away for garbage. It is also advised to prevent flushing down anything other than toilet paper and sewage down the toilet. A good way of keeping hair from blocking bathroom drains is by installing a screen over the drains found in the shower and the bathtub.
High water pressure puts a strain on the pipes and this might result in a leak. Keep the water pressure at a moderate level which falls between 40 and 80 psi. You can check the pressure attaching a hose bib gauge to an outside faucet and opening the line. You can hire a renovation plumber to rectify the water pressure. Some regions have hard water which has a higher mineral content than what is normal. These minerals can build up inside the pipes over time which will constrain the water flow and cause an increase in water pressure. It can result in the corrosion of fittings and joints. You can use a water softener to counteract the effects.
Your sewer or the septic tank should go through a thorough cleaning once in a while. If you have a municipal sewer, it should be looked at by a plumber every few years. If you’re in possession of a septic tank, the tank should be pumped out every 3 to 5 years. There are a few basic things you need to know about the plumbing system as well. One important fact is you should know where the main shutoff valve of your house is. And if you live in a temperate country that experiences seasons, the hoses should be removed from outside faucets to prevent the cracking of pipes due to frozen water.