Unfortunately, most homeowners find that plumbing issues tend to rear their head soon after a new property is purchased. The bathrooms and kitchen are the most likely sources of these problems. Every homeowner has to deal with plumbing issues. Some jobs can be done by the homeowner for a huge savings, so here is some advice to show you how.
Obnoxiously loud pipes that like to squeal and hammer are easy situations to correct. Anchor any pipes that are exposed. You may need to hire a professional to help with any projects involving pipes that are hidden in the floors, ceiling or walls.
To keep your septic tank in good working order, it is advisable to have it pumped out every five years. Septic systems can back up when the septic tank builds up sediment. This can even result in the septic system failing altogether. Although it could cost a good deal of money to pump out your septic tank, it will cost a lot more having to clean sewage backup or having to fix or replace a septic tank.
Do not pay anything until the problem is fixed. You may be required to put some money down before a job is started, but never pay the total cost until you know the job has been completed correctly. You should make sure the plumber did a good job before you pay in full.
Check floors around toilets for softness, so you can tell if you have any floor damage. Sit reversed on the toilet (facing the tank) with your feet on the floor. Rock your weight onto each foot in turn and see if you can feel any weakness or “give” in the floor. You can save a lot if you catch these issue sooner.
Position a strainer over all drains to collect any particles that would otherwise go down the drain and possibly cause a stoppage. You should clean your kitchen sink’s strainer every time there is a large particle that’s trapped in it. The ones in the bathroom can be cleaned out as needed.
Never pour grease or anything fatty or oily into your drain. When they cool down, they get hard and that will cause clogs in your sink drains. As an owner of a garbage disposal, this is important because the blades will stop working if they have fat on them. Don’t put oils down the sink.
Shower Heads
You can drastically reduce your utility bills with the installation of shower heads designed for better efficiency. Showers and baths are responsible for the bulk of your hot water usage. If you spend several extra dollars putting in energy-saving shower heads, you can potentially reduce your energy bill by $100 or more annually for every shower head used in your home.
If you need to replace your shower head, make sure that you buy a new one that is high quality. Most times, people tend to think that it is alright to purchase the most inexpensive shower head they could find. Cheap shower heads have a tendency to break easily, so make sure you get what you pay for.
One plumbing repair that costs a lot of money is frozen pipes. Fortunately, it’s usually an avoidable problem. Insulate your outside pipes. When it gets colder, disconnect and drain the hoses and turn the outside faucet off. Taking proper precautions can save you lots of money on plumbing bills.
While you may not be able to choose which plumber is assigned to your job, you can still look the person up online. Even if your insurance provider has assigned you someone of their choosing, find out who it is online and check do a web search for ratings of previous customers, so that you can be prepared for their arrival.
If you require the services of a plumber, be sure to check them out prior to hiring them. Some plumbers are not experienced enough or skilled enough to handle some jobs, and they can worsen your problem. Always look at plumber reviews, or ask friends and family if they can recommend one.
Valves that are rarely used tend to fuse together. Use penetrating oil to maintain them, and make sure you turn them every once in a while.
Always know in your mind exactly where the valve is that will cut the water off on your property. There will be a water meter there or nearby. Toilets and sinks might have a cut-off valve of their own. Make sure all the members of your family know where the cut-off valves are. In addition, add markings to show how they should be turned off.
When you have a problem with the plumbing, the worst thing to do is not be prepared. Everyone should be ready for common plumbing problems, and have the tools at hand. Should plumbing issues arise, you can use the advice in this article to help you.