Learning how to prevent plumbing problems such as leaks, clogged drains, and burst pipes is the easiest way to avoid costly repairs. Below are some tips to help you identify plumbing issues before they become major problems:
Identifying Toilet Leaks
Leaking toilets are not uncommon. However, identifying a leak early can save you a substantial amount of money on repairs. If you think a leak may be underway, pour a bit of food coloring into the tank and if it shows up the next morning in the bowl, the flush valve should be replaced. If you cannot identify the leak, call a local plumber as soon as possible.
Kitchen Sink Clogs
Grease, cooking oil and food particles can quickly clog the pipes under your kitchen sink, leading to potentially serious problems. Fortunately, using strainers to catch waste and regularly flushing the drain with boiling water and dish detergent are great ways to prevent clogs of this kind.
Clogged Bathroom Drains
Bathroom drains can easily become stopped up, but there are ways to prevent a major backup. For example, try clearing the drain with a wet-dry vacuum. This is a handy trick that is much more effective and less time-consuming than using an auger–also referred to as a “snake.”
Plumbing Problems in the Laundry Room
The rubber connection hoses on your washing machine sometimes become damaged and burst. This obviously creates a flooded laundry room, which can lead to serious damage, especially if you do not notice it immediately. Thankfully, this problem can be avoided by regularly checking hoses for blisters and cracks. You may also want to consider replacing the hoses with steel models, the latter of which are not susceptible to the aforementioned problems.
Water Heater Breakdowns
A water heater typically has a life expectancy of up to 20 years. Nevertheless, such units do eventually wear out and major damage can occur if serious leaks take place unexpectedly. Checking the water heater at regular intervals for signs of leakage or rust is the best way to spot potential trouble areas and give you time to contact a plumber in Placentia before a major disaster occurs.
Replacing Old Pipes
Pipes made from obsolete materials are major trouble sources. This is because they can crack or become invaded by roots. Even steel pipes are prone to internal rusting, which presents another set of problems. Instead of waiting for a leak to occur, consider having a professional evaluate the condition of your old pipes to determine whether or not they need to be replaced.
Locating Your Main Water Valve
The best way to avoid serious flooding during a plumbing emergency is to locate your main water valve in advance. It is typically situated at the lowest level of your house, close to the street. Once you have located the valve, test it to make sure it is in proper working order. If you are planning a lengthy trip, it is a good idea to turn this valve off prior to your departure.
All homes are susceptible to plumbing problems, but following the tips outlined above can help you head off issues before they become serious. Always contact a professional plumber to complete repairs, as this is the best way to ensure a satisfactory outcome.