No-one wants a blocked toilet or a series of dripping taps. Maintenance is essential to avoid expensive emergency issues. These plumbing tips could save you money and an unexpected emergency.
Avoid leaks
Even small wet patches on roofs, walls and other areas can indicate that there are leaking pipes. Water leaks can waste thousands of litres of water per year and cost you dearly.
If water seeps into your walls or floor, you’ll have to deal with a whole new set of potentially expensive problems. Regularly inspect plumbing in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry and outdoors and make sure taps are turned off completely.
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Clean drains
Food debris, hair, unflushable products and grease can clog your drains and clogs can lead to pipe breaks. To avoid clogs that may cost you dearly in call-out fees and repairs, consider the following:
- When you shower, try to limit the amount of hair that goes down the drain.
- Food and coffee grinds should not be poured down the sink.
- Only flush toilet paper as flushing dense materials can cause clogs.
- Don’t pour grease down the drain. Grease can harden and build up over time, resulting in blocked drains.
Use a drain cleaner that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals. Once a month, pour a cup of vinegar and baking soda down the drain.
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Pay attention to the toilet
Your toilet is a plumbing appliance that consumes a significant amount of water. As a result, you must ensure that it’s in good working order. You may have a main drain problem if you hear gurgling sounds. If your toilet is gurgling, call a plumber before it gets more serious. If your toilet has leaks, repair them as soon as possible to prevent water waste. Keep in mind the following plumbing tips for toilets:
- Except for toilet papers, don’t flush anything else, such as sanitary napkins, cotton balls and wet wipes.
- If you discover broken handles or other tank pieces that are worn out, replace them immediately.
- Face tissues should not be flushed because they are absorbent and can easily clog the pipes.
- Replace any pipes that are no longer functional.
And when all else fails, be sure to have the contact details of your preferred plumber in an easily accessed spot. Weekend rates might be high but so is damage to your home and don’t forget the higher water bill if you have a major problem.
Amanda Martin is a freelance writer who is passionate about creating ‘how to’ guides. She works with Fluenta Plumbing as a content writer.
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