Plumbing emergencies can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. The stress, inconvenience, and unexpected expenses that come with a plumbing emergency can disrupt life and your finances as well. Fortunately, you can prevent many costly plumbing emergencies with proactive measures and regular inspection of your plumbing system from Bixby Plumbers.
In this article, we will help you learn about the best practices that you can take to prevent costly plumbing emergencies in the best possible way.
Let’s have a look at the best approach to avoid costly plumbing emergencies:
1. Schedule a seasonal checklist for plumbing
One of the best ways to avoid costly plumbing emergencies is to schedule a seasonal plumbing checklist. Consider performing this checklist at the beginning of each season. It will help you identify potential issues before they become major problems.
Here are some examples of what to include in your seasonal plumbing checklist:
Winter Checklist:
- Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from freezing
- Check for leaks in the water supply lines
- Check the water heater’s proper functioning
Summer Checklist:
- Inspect your sprinkler system for clogs and leaks
- Examine your appliances’ hoses for wear and tear.
- Check for leaks around the shower and toilet area.
Spring Checklist:
- Inspect outdoor faucets and hoses
- Check slow-draining sinks and tubs
- Examine the sump pump
Fall Checklist:
- Clean gutters to prevent overflows
- Inspect the pressure relief valve of your water heater
- Check for leaks in the hot water system.
You can further add more plumbing tasks to make these seasonal plumbing checklists more comprehensive.
2. Check for leaks regularly.
Leaky pipes are one of the most common plumbing issues that can lead to emergencies. The first step in avoiding these emergencies is to regularly check for leaks throughout your home. Signs of leaks include:
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- The sound of dripping water
- Increased water bills
Pay attention to any unusual signs and investigate them promptly.
3. Fix the small leaks quickly.
If you discover a small leak, it’s crucial to address it quickly. Even a minor leak can transform into a major issue. It can cause water damage and increase your water bills. Fixing small leaks immediately can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
When dealing with leaks, it’s important to consider the location and material of the pipes. Leaks in exposed pipes can often be fixed with a simple patch or sealant. However, if the leak is in the concealed wall, then it is better to call Bixby Plumbers to assess and fix the problem.
Most importantly, ignoring small leaks can result in structural damage and mold growth, which can be costly to repair.
4. Avoid clogs and treat them instantly.
Clogs are another common plumbing problem that can lead to emergencies. So, you must be mindful of what’s going on in your drains. You should avoid grease, food scraps, or non-flushable items down the toilet.
Besides that, it is better to install a drain screen to catch hair and debris in sinks and showers. Cleaning your drain stoppers and removing hair and soap regularly can help you avoid scum buildup. You should use a sink strainer in your kitchen to catch food particles and avoid pouring cooking grease into the drain.
However, if a clog occurs in your drain, you must treat it quickly with a plunger, drain snake, or a safe chemical drain cleaner to fix the problem.
5. Remember that drains aren’t trashcans.
One common mistake that leads to plumbing emergencies is treating drains like trashcans. Your drains are designed to handle water and certain waste, not all types of waste. Therefore, you must avoid disposing of items like paper towels, diapers, and sanitary products in the toilet.
However, when it comes to the kitchen, you must avoid putting grease and food scraps down the sink. It is because these practices can lead to clogs and costly plumbing issues.
6. Fix the malfunctioning water heater quickly.
A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt your daily routines and be a major inconvenience. If you notice any issues with your water heater, fix them quickly. Some of the most common water heater problems usually include inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, or leaks.
If you neglect water heater problems, it can result in a complete breakdown and lead to costly replacements.
However, regular maintenance performed by Bixby plumbers can help you to prolong its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
7. Keep an eye on the water pressure of your home.
Water pressure plays a crucial role in the health of your plumbing system. High water pressure can cause stress on your pipes, which can also lead to leaks and even burst pipes. However, slow water pressure can be disruptive as it will take longer to perform different water-based tasks.
Therefore, it is always better to invest in a high-quality pressure regulator for your home. It will help you to maintain adequate water pressure in your home.
Additionally, you should monitor the water pressure of your house regularly and adjust the pressure regulator accordingly to maintain a safe and consistent water pressure in your home. Consistent water pressure not only prevents emergencies but also helps in water conservation.
8. Upgrade your worn-out fixtures.
Old and worn-out fixtures, such as faucets, showerheads, and toilets, are more likely to develop leaks and other plumbing problems. You should consider upgrading to water-efficient fixtures. The practice will not only help you enhance the functionality of your plumbing system but can also reduce your water bills.
Above all, it will also reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies caused by faulty components.
9. Schedule preventive maintenance.
Preventive maintenance is key to avoiding costly plumbing emergencies. At the same time, many homeowners are capable of performing basic maintenance tasks. Therefore, it is always advised to hire professional Bixby plumbers to identify potential issues that may go unnoticed by the untrained eye.
Professional plumbers can make necessary repairs and offer guidance on maintaining your plumbing system. Above all, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your plumbing and save you from unexpected emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Costly plumbing emergencies can disrupt your life and wreak havoc on your budget. However, you can avoid these costly emergencies with the right approach. The ways mentioned above are highly helpful in protecting your plumbing system and maintaining its efficiency in the best possible way.
Read more about our business by visiting About Us | Plumbing Tulsa | Acts of Service Plumbing today. Also, check out one of the many clients we have served around the Tulsa area: Navien Inc. If you’re in need of plumbing services in the Bixby area, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced Bixby plumbers.