Plumbing Things You Should Know

Owning a home comes with countless responsibilities, and ensuring your plumbing system runs smoothly is no exception. While you don’t need to be a master plumber, possessing some basic knowledge can save you time, money, and significant headaches down the line. If you’d like to know more about plumbing services, visit Inner City Plumbing. Here are some essential plumbing things you should know:

1. Preventative Maintenance is Key:

Shut-off Valves: 

Familiarize yourself with the location of shut-off valves for individual sinks, toilets, and the main water supply. This enables you to isolate problems and prevent flooding in emergencies.

Drain Cleaning: 

Regularly use enzymatic drain cleaners and avoid pouring fats, grease, or coffee grounds down the drain to prevent clogs.

Hot Water Heater: 

Drain and flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.

Leaky Faucets: 

Pay attention to leaky faucets! Prompt repair saves water and prevents further damage.

2. Understanding Common Problems:

Running Toilets: 

Check for worn-out flappers, faulty fill valves, or leaks in the supply line. Address these promptly to avoid water waste and high bills.

Clogged Drains: 

Plungers are your first line of defense. For persistent clogs, try a drain snake or call a plumber. Chemical drain cleaners are required to be used less to avoid damage.

Low Water Pressure: 

Check for clogged aerators on faucets, leaks in the system, or issues with the main water supply. Consult a plumber if necessary.

No Hot Water: 

Check if the heater is turned on and correctly set. If not, troubleshoot potential issues like tripped breakers or faulty heating elements.

3. DIY or Call a Pro?

Some minor issues like leaky faucets or drain clogs can be tackled with DIY skills and readily available tools. However, more significant problems involve:

• The main water line leaks
• Sewer line issues
• Gas lines
• Extensive pipe replacements

Always seek the expertise of a licensed plumber. Attempting DIY repairs in these situations can lead to further damage, safety hazards, and costly complications.

4. Water Conservation:

Low-flow fixtures: 

Consider installing low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets to reduce water usage without compromising functionality.

Repair leaks promptly: 

Every drop counts! Fixing leaks quickly minimizes water waste and keeps your bills low.

Water-efficient appliances: 

Opt for water-efficient washing machines and dishwashers when replacing old appliances.

5. Additional Tips:

Know your water meter: 

Learn how to read your water meter, allowing you to detect unusual spikes that might indicate leaks.

Insulate exposed pipes: 

Insulating pipes in unheated areas prevents freezing and potential bursts during cold weather.

Garbage disposal care: 

Avoid putting fibrous materials, bones, or grease down the disposal, as these can clog the system.

Have a plumbing emergency kit: 

Assemble an introductory kit containing a plunger, wrench, pipe tape, and shut-off valve wrench for minor repairs.

Conclusion

By equipping yourself with basic plumbing knowledge, proactive maintenance, and understanding your limitations, you can become a more informed and empowered homeowner. Remember, timely intervention for minor issues can prevent significant problems and ensure your plumbing system keeps your home flowing smoothly for years to come.