How Can Homeowners Prevent Plumbing Issues?
Summer's here. Everybody's looking forward to cookouts, days at the pool, and impromptu beach days. Nobody is looking forward to the plumbing problems that can happen once the temperature rises. Thankfully, homeowners have options for preventing these issues.
Knowing the Signs of Leaks
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a leak is more than inconvenient; it can also waste thousands of gallons of water in a single year. Leaks can happen for many reasons, from corroded pipes to root intrusion. The important thing to know is that, with quick detection, one can prevent the problems that arise from a leak.
Some signs of a leak include:
- Higher-than-average water bills. The EPA notes that the average household spends $1,000 on monthly water bills. With a leak, one could find themselves paying even more.
- Mold and mildew growth. These organisms grow in dark, damp places, where many leaks form. Without prompt remediation, mold can quickly make a home unlivable.
- Low water pressure. A plumbing system can't maintain good water flow without a leak. Poor water pressure can affect how water-based appliances function.
A homeowner may hear running water if they have a hidden wall leak. Unaddressed, a hidden leak could damage drywall, cause mold growth, and attract pests.
Not Pouring Fats, Grease, or Oil Down the Drain
There are certain things that homeowners should never pour down the drain––and those items include:
- Fat. Fat might bubble off meat as it's cooked. Pouring fat down the drain could cause major blockages that prevent drains from draining.
- Oil. If a homeowner can't pour cooking oil down the drain, where should they put it? Lee County has a program that allows homeowners to bring leftover oil to a recycling facility. The organization disposes of these substances without threatening homeowners' plumbing systems and the water supply.
- Grease. No matter how small a sample of grease may seem, even a little bit can destroy a plumbing system.
The EPA notes that homeowners should also be careful of what they flush down the toilet. Even flushing a wipe that claims to be "flushable" could lead to serious problems, from backed-up toilets to clogged sewer lines.
Rather than flushing these items, one should throw them in the garbage:
- Diapers
- Q-tips
- Cotton balls, napkins, and paper towels
- Medications (yes, even liquids)
- Menstruation products
- Condoms
One should also avoid flushing drain cleaners. While it may initially mitigate a clog, it's not a permanent solution.
Consulting a Drain Cleaning Service Once a Year
Having a trained professional inspect the plumbing system at least once a year is important. When an expert assesses the plumbing system, they look for:
- Malfunctioning appliances
- Loose connections
- Rusted or corroded pipes
- Mold and mildew
- Pests
- Hazards that could endanger a household
A professional can also explain what additional preventative measures could mitigate issues in the future. They'll likely recommend many of the considerations on the list above.
About Drain Nerds
At Drain Nerds, we're passionate about plumbing systems and everything they entail. Some nerds like Star Wars, these nerds like finding solutions to household problems. Whether one needs help with a clogged toilet, appliance installation, or corroded pipe, these experts are here to help. To learn more about their commitment to client satisfaction and same-day drain service, Fort Myers, FL residents can call now.
