Every homeowner will experience a plumbing issue at some point. Although it is always best to hire a plumber for major plumbing repairs, you can perform many of the tasks required for regular plumbing maintenance yourself. Simple things can be done to maintain your plumbing system and keep it in top condition.
Plumbing Tips for Homeowners
1. Find the Location of your Main water shut-off Valve
Locate the main water supply valve and meter as soon as you move in to a new house. The main shutdown will almost always be located on the ground level, basement or crawlspace. If you have a slab-based foundation, the shut-off valve will likely be located under your kitchen sink or near the water heater. The ability to turn off the water quickly in an emergency could save you thousands of dollars on property damage.
2. Find Independent Supply Valves
The majority of fixtures and appliances such as water heaters and dishwashers are equipped with their own supply valves. Make sure each valve is easily accessible. If there is a problem with the supply valve, it may only be necessary to turn off one of them in order to avoid flooding. Each supply valve should be tested once a year for proper operation and to make sure they can turn. Call a plumber if they do not turn or leak when you turn the valves.
3. How to Assemble an Emergency Plumbing Kit
Some essential tools will help you solve minor plumbing problems or give you some time to wait for a plumber. A plunger, a drain snake, a screwdriver and paper towels are all essential items. Duct tape will temporarily fix a small pipe leak.
4. How to Stop an Overflowing Bathroom
There is nothing more terrifying than seeing the water level in a toilet rise. If you are worried that the toilet bowl might overflow, open the tank and lower the flush valve. The water will be stopped and you can take the time necessary to fix the problem.
5. Toilet Leaks: Check for Leaks
The toilet is often the source of costly water leaks. Pour a simple way to test for a water leak, put a few drops in the toilet tank. Wait for an hour or so. Check to see if any food coloring has gotten into the water. You have a leak if this is the case. The problem is usually solved by replacing the seal on the flush valve.
6. Install mesh Drain covers
Clogs are often caused by hair, soap chunks, toys and other debris. Installing mesh drain covers for your showers, sinks, and tubs will prevent debris from blocking your drains. This can save you time and money by avoiding the need to call a plumber or snake your drain.
7. Keep An Eye Out for Water Leaks
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), around 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted in the United States each year. A tiny leak can waste hundreds gallons of water per day. Some leaks are obvious and easy to detect, while others may not be noticed until it is too late. Leak Detectors can be an excellent investment. They will alert you if they detect moisture. Regularly inspect the areas that are prone to leaks to avoid expensive water bills and home damage. This includes areas around or beneath:
- Sinks
- Toilets
- Dishwashers
- Garbage disposals
- Water heaters
- Washing machines
8. Do not put Anything down your Drains
Preventing drain clogs is as simple as being careful what you put down the drain. Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Only water and soap should be flushed down the drain of a sink or tub. Shower drains can become clogged when hair and soap are combined. A drain cover can be placed in the shower or tub to prevent hair and other objects from falling into the drain.
9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Do not use a plunger if you have just used drain cleaners containing chemicals. You could get severely injured or burned if the water splashes on your skin or eyes. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners. They can also damage your plumbing. Minor blockages can be cleared with a drain snake or plunger. Call a plumber if a plunger does not work.
When to Call a Professional
Although following these tips will help to prevent plumbing problems, the majority of homeowners will eventually experience a problem that requires a plumber’s services. If you’re in Remuera and experiencing such an issue, it’s best to call an experienced plumber in Remuera. Call a professional as soon as you notice a leak, a broken pipe or a sewage backup in your home.
