PREVENTING COMMON PLUMBING ISSUES IN YOUR HOME

Plumbing issues can cause major headaches and, in some cases, lead to expensive repairs. Whether it’s a slow drain, a leaky faucet, or a burst pipe, these problems can disrupt your daily life and, if left unchecked, cause long-term damage to your home. The good news is that many plumbing problems can be prevented with a little knowledge and proactive maintenance. In this article, we’ll share simple tips to help you avoid common plumbing issues and keep your pipes running smoothly.

Regularly Check for Leaks

Small leaks can quickly escalate into larger problems if left undetected. A slow drip from a faucet or a minor pipe leak may seem insignificant at first, but it can waste gallons of water and lead to water damage in your walls, ceilings, and floors. To prevent this:

• Inspect faucets and showerheads regularly for drips and replace worn washers.
• Check under sinks and around toilets for signs of moisture or mold, which could indicate a slow leak.
• Monitor your water meter when no water is being used. If it’s still running, you may have a hidden leak somewhere in your system.

Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain

It’s tempting to dispose of leftover grease or cooking oils by pouring them down the sink, but this is a huge mistake. When grease cools, it solidifies, causing blockages in your pipes and creating a sticky residue that attracts other debris, leading to clogs. Instead:

• Dispose of grease properly by pouring it into a container and throwing it away.
• Use a strainer in your kitchen sink to catch food particles that could cause clogs.
• Consider using a garbage disposal (if you have one), but remember that it’s not a substitute for proper disposal practices.

Don’t Flush Non-Flushable Items

It’s easy to assume that anything that fits in the toilet will flush away without issue, but flushing items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products can lead to serious clogs in your plumbing. These items do not break down as toilet paper does, resulting in blockages and potential damage to your sewer line. To avoid this:

• Only flush toilet paper—nothing else.
• Install a wastebasket in your bathroom to dispose of non-flushable items safely.
• Teach children the importance of proper waste disposal and make sure they understand what can and can’t be flushed.

Be Careful What You Put Down the Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal is not an all-you-can-throw-in machine. While it can handle some food scraps, certain materials can cause damage to the unit and your plumbing system. Avoid putting the following in your garbage disposal:

• Hard items like bones, seeds, and pits
• Fibrous vegetables (such as celery or corn husks)
• Grease, oil, and fats
• Non-food items like plastic or metal

To keep your garbage disposal in good working order, regularly run cold water while using it and clean it by grinding up ice cubes or citrus peels.

Maintain Your Water Heater

Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, and a failure can be a major inconvenience. To ensure it runs efficiently and avoid costly repairs:

• Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and cause damage.
• Check the temperature setting to make sure it’s not set too high. A setting of 120°F is ideal to prevent scalding and energy wastage.
• Inspect the anode rod every few years to prevent rust buildup inside the tank, which can lead to leaks.

Insulate Pipes in Cold Weather

Frozen pipes are a common problem in colder climates, and they can easily burst, leading to significant water damage. To prevent pipes from freezing:

• Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Keep the heat on in your home during cold spells, even when you’re not there.
• Let faucets drip during extreme cold to keep water moving and prevent freezing.

Regularly Clean Your Drains

Slow or clogged drains are a common plumbing issue, but they’re often preventable with regular cleaning. Hair, soap scum, grease, and other debris can accumulate over time, leading to blockages. To keep your drains clear:

• Use a drain strainer to catch hair and food particles before they go down the drain.
• Clean drains regularly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break down buildup.
• Avoid chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage pipes and are often ineffective at fully clearing clogs.

Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Valve Is

In case of a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe or a major leak, knowing how to quickly turn off the water supply to your home can prevent significant damage. Locate your main water shutoff valve (usually in the basement, garage, or outside) and make sure everyone in your household knows how to operate it.

Invest in Preventative Plumbing Inspections

While regular maintenance can prevent many issues, it’s still important to have a professional plumber inspect your system annually. Our plumbers here at Realize Plumbing can identify potential problems before they become major headaches and provide advice on how to keep your plumbing in top shape.

Final Thoughts

Preventing plumbing issues is all about being proactive. By taking simple steps to care for your pipes, drains, and fixtures, you can avoid costly repairs, save water, and ensure the long-term health of your plumbing system. Regular inspections, mindful usage, and proper maintenance go a long way in keeping your home’s plumbing running smoothly.

Taking care of your plumbing system today will save you time, money, and frustration tomorrow! So don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.