Improve Overall Plumbing Performance in the New Year
When it comes to home plumbing, people would rather ignore it and allow it to do its job of bringing in fresh, potable water and ridding the home of waste. It seems easier that way until a real problem crops up. Simple neglect can lead to major repairs and lots of cash spent on plumbing services. One can do several simple and mindful things to help prevent a future plumbing emergency.
What’s Flushing?
Garbage disposals can take care of some food waste but are not made to make everything from a meal completely disappear. If a customer is mindful about what they flush, they can prevent a host of problems, including emergency toilet repair or sewage backup.
Never Flush:
- Baby wipes
- Cotton buds(q-tips) or cotton balls
- Dental Floss
- Diapers
- Facial cleansing pads
- Feminine hygiene products
- Paper towels
All these things can cause clogs that require professional assistance to remove.
Look Out for Leaks
Being mindful also means looking out for warning signs of problems. One of the most damaging but slow to emerge problems with plumbing is the hidden water leak scourge of home structure. The fact that they are not obvious is the most dangerous part. If the leaks go long unnoticed, it may lead to severe water damage along with mold and mildew issues. Be on the lookout for any of the following signs of a hidden water leak:
- Ceiling or Wall Spots: If a homeowner notices discolored areas on walls or ceiling, this may indicate a dripping pipe in that area.
- Puddles: If water is visibly pooling either inside or outside the house, this is a sign of a leak.
- Low Water Pressure: Has the shower stopped flowing quite as it should, or does it take longer to fill a pot from the sink? This is a clear indicator that a home may need water leak repair.
- Higher than Normal Water Bills: If the home’s water bill has dramatically and suddenly increased seemingly without cause, a homeowner needs to have an inspection immediately.
Make Drain Cleaning Routine
Being mindful comes more easily with a structured schedule. Starting a habit of regular drain cleaning will limit the need for more drastic clog removal. There are a couple of simple ways to do this, the easiest one being to pour boiling water down the drain.
Baking soda and vinegar are also a good alternative to corrosive chemical drain openers. Considering signing up for a plumbing maintenance plan with a reliable professional will remove the responsibility from the customer to the knowledgeable technicians who perform such tasks regularly.
About B&L Plumbing
Veteran-owned B&L Plumbing has served the Colorado Springs area for more than twenty years. They offer 24/7 emergency service with no after-hours fees. Call them today for information on their plumbing maintenance plans.
