Although looking after your plumbing does not seem at the top of your priority lists, building checks and maintenance into part of your monthly routine can save you massive amounts and avoid costly repairs or water leaks. If you follow this advice, you should be on the way to a healthy and long-lasting plumbing system.
Firstly, it is essential to use drains correctly. This means that you should be mindful of what you put down, for example pouring grease or oil down the drain solidifies and clogs the drain which you do not want. Similarly, harsh chemical drain cleaners can erode the pipes. In terms of your toilets, you should also be careful what is flushed because plastics or harmful materials can clog the drains too.
If you regularly inspect your plumbing, this will help identify problems early on before they become large and financially draining. Checking for leaks or corrosion once a month could allow you to pick up on any damage, especially from weather such as water erosion or blockages from leaves.
One of the most common reasons for blocked drains is heavy storms or rain therefore if you have just had either of these, then checking pipes using a ladder or getting a professional to have a look is a wise idea. Things to look out for are a build-up of sand, leaves or water creating pressure on the pipe. Another warning sign can be the smell of rotten egg from the shower or outside drains.
To avoid costly repairs, there are preventative measures. Consider adding drain screens or using a strainer to stop hair and other debris from causing clogs. For the external piping, equipment such as coatings or pipe protectors can be installed to help prevent corrosion. You can also reduce stress on pipes by using water softeners or descaling your shower head once every few months.
Cranking your water pressure to the maximum can often lead to a reduced lifespan of the drainage system. It can be a good idea to adjust your water pressure because although this may take longer to get that nice warm shower it could avoid an expensive bill in the future!
If you do find a problem or have a concern it is best to get it looked and repaired as soon as you can. This is important for the future plumbing of the property, whether you are planning on living it long-term or planning on selling it.
