Maintaining your plumbing system might not be the most exciting task, but it’s crucial for keeping your home in top shape. Neglecting plumbing maintenance can lead to costly repairs and water damage down the road. The good news is that there are several essential maintenance tasks you can perform on your own, saving you time and money. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five to six important plumbing maintenance steps that anyone can tackle with a bit of know-how and a few basic tools. If you need help with any plumbing matters, including drain cleaning Tulsa, contact us.
Detecting Drips and Drops
A minor leak can quickly turn into a major headache if left unattended. Checking for leaks should be a routine part of your plumbing maintenance.
What to do:
- Inspect faucets and showerheads for any visible drips.
- Examine exposed pipes in your basement or under sinks for signs of moisture or rust.
- Place a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank and wait for about 30 minutes without flushing. If the water in the bowl turns colored, you likely have a leak.
If you discover any leaks, repair or replace the faulty components promptly. Most of the time, it’s a simple fix like replacing a worn-out washer or tightening a loose connection.
Keeping Water Flowing Smoothly
Clogged drains can be a real nuisance, but you can prevent them with regular maintenance.
What to do:
- Use a drain strainer in your sinks and bathtub to catch hair and debris.
- Flush drains with hot water regularly to help dissolve grease and soap buildup.
- For stubborn clogs, try a plunger or a drain snake to remove blockages.
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage your pipes and harm the environment.
Ensuring Hot Water When You Need It
Your water heater plays a crucial role in your daily life, so it’s essential to keep it in good working order.
What to do:
- Check for any signs of corrosion or rust on the tank.
- Test the temperature and pressure relief valve by opening it and letting some water out.
- Drain a few gallons of water from the tank to remove sediment buildup.
Flushing your water heater annually can improve its efficiency and prolong its lifespan.
Stopping Pesky Drips
Dripping faucets can waste a significant amount of water over time. Thankfully, fixing them is relatively straightforward.
What to do:
- Turn off the water supply to the affected faucet.
- Remove the faucet handle and spout to access the internal components.
- Inspect and replace any damaged washers or O-rings.
- Reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on.
This simple DIY fix can save you money on your water bill and prevent further damage to your faucet.
Preventing Silent Water Wastage
A leaking toilet can go unnoticed for a long time but can lead to substantial water wastage.
What to do:
- Remove the toilet tank lid and listen for any hissing or running water.
- Place a few drops of food coloring in the tank.
- Wait for about 30 minutes without flushing.
- If the water in the toilet bowl changes color, you have a leak.
Common culprits for toilet leaks include a faulty flapper or fill valve, both of which are relatively easy and inexpensive to replace.
Preventing Costly Water Damage
Regularly checking exposed pipes in your home can help you catch potential issues before they become major problems.
What to do:
- Look for signs of corrosion, rust, or moisture around pipe joints.
- Ensure pipes are properly insulated, especially in cold climates, to prevent freezing and bursting.
- Check for any loose or dripping connections.
Addressing these issues promptly can prevent water damage and the need for costly repairs down the line.
Conclusion
Performing these essential plumbing maintenance tasks can help you avoid expensive repairs and keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly. Regularly checking for leaks, clearing clogged drains, inspecting your water heater, replacing worn-out washers and seals, checking for toilet leaks, and inspecting exposed pipes are all simple yet effective ways to maintain your plumbing system. By taking the time to perform these DIY tasks, you can save money and ensure the comfort and safety of your home for years to come. For professional drain cleaning Tulsa, contact us today.
Read more about our business by visiting About Us | Plumbing Tulsa | Acts of Service Plumbing today. We specialize in professional plumbing services, including drain cleaning Tulsa.
Also, check out one of the many clients we have served around the Tulsa area: Navien Inc.