Most people don’t think about their plumbing system at home until something goes wrong. But if you’re proactive and take a few steps to avoid plumbing problems, you can save yourself from some major headaches. Avoid plumbing disasters with these easy tips.
Outline:
- Regularly check for leaks.
- Monitor water pressure.
- Pay attention to slow drains.
- Replace worn-out fixtures.
- Watch what you flush.
- Use your garbage disposal properly.
- Always consult a professional plumber.
- Affordable Plumbers in Waco, Texas
Regularly Check for Leaks
Homeowners are often surprised to learn how vulnerable they are to the water damage caused by uncorrected water leaks. Not surprisingly, it is estimated that Americans waste roughly one trillion gallons of water yearly due to leaks. (Mariotti, 2022) Regularly checking for water leaks is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take to prevent water wastage and a major plumbing disaster down the road.
There are two types of pipe leaks: slow and sudden. A slow leak is usually a small drip that you might not notice until other symptoms or signs of plumbing problems begin to appear. For example, you might notice a slight smell or mold beginning to grow in your home. You might also notice water spots on the ceiling, walls, or floors. On the other hand, a sudden leak is usually more obvious, as it can cause spurts and gushes of water that are hard to miss. These leaks often demand immediate attention and will result in extensive damage that will cost thousands to repair when not resolved quickly.
The fastest way to check for a leak is to turn off all your faucets and cut off the water supply of your home appliances. If you notice that your water meter still registers usage, then you have a water leak problem.
Monitor water pressure
Sudden leaks are often accompanied by changes in water pressure. If you notice that your tap is giving off a weak flow or none at all, then this could be an indication of a leak. You can also install a water pressure detector, which will send you a notification if the water pressure drops below a certain level.
Pay attention to slow drains.
Slow-draining sinks and bathtubs are often an indication of a clogged drain, and clogs are notorious for causing plumbing disasters. Flush out the debris clogging your pipe by running hot water and pouring baking soda or vinegar down the drain. If this does not work, then you may have a clog that needs to be removed manually. If you don’t have the tools, or if you are not sure how to do it yourself, you should call a plumber to come and take care of the problem.
Replace worn-out fixtures.
Worn-out fixtures are due for replacement. For example, a faucet may be leaking because the washer is worn out. If you wait too long, it might break and cause a flood. You should also replace your shower head, which can get moldy and start to leak if the seal around it is broken or worn out. This can happen over time as well as suddenly when hitting something while cleaning.
Watch what you flush.
If you are not careful, you may be flushing something that should not be flushed. These solid wastes can clog your pipes and cause problems later on. For example, cat litter should never be flushed down the toilet because it can get stuck in your pipes and cause clogs. If you need help figuring out what can go down the toilet and what should go in the trash, ask your plumber for advice or refer to our list below:
- Tampons, sanitary napkins, and similar products
- Cotton swabs, Q-tips, and other cotton products
- Diapers, baby wipes, and other similar items
- Food, including grease and liquids
- Hairballs from cats and dogs
Use your garbage disposal properly.
The garbage disposal is a very helpful tool, but it can also cause serious plumbing problems when not used properly. A common mistake people make is putting too much food down the drain at once. If you put too much in, it will clog up your pipes and cause problems such as leaks and flooding. The best way to use your garbage disposal is to put in small amounts of food at a time. If you fill it up with food, put some cold water down first to help flush everything down the drain. Use ice cubes if possible, and don’t put in any grease or oils.
Always consult a professional plumber.
Unless you are a plumber yourself, it is best to consult a professional plumber before attempting any DIY fixes. Some plumbers may require a minimum consultation fee, but this is nothing compared to risking your safety, home, and plumbing system.
But if you don’t have the tools necessary or the skill required to complete a project yourself, it is better to hire someone else. Some homeowners have this misconception that hiring a plumber is expensive. This notion is not true. You can find an affordable plumber who offers the same quality of service as other, more expensive plumbing companies–you just need to know where to look.
Affordable Plumbers in Waco, Texas
If you’re looking for high-quality and affordable plumbing services in Waco, Texas, call us at Smelscer Plumbing. We have been serving Waco and nearby areas for several years now and have consistently received positive feedback from our customers.
We offer all types of plumbing services, including trenchless sewer repair, water heater installation, repair and maintenance, and slab leak repair. Our company is licensed and bonded, so you can feel safe having us work in your home. We also have a team of highly-trained plumbers who are dedicated to providing quality service at affordable prices. If you’re looking for affordable plumbers in Waco, Texas, call 254-749-7955 today!
Reference:
[1] Mariotti, Tony. “Water Damage Statistics (2023).” RubyHome.com, August 18, 2022. https://www.rubyhome.com/blog/water-damage-stats/.
