In plumbing, a lot of things can go the opposite of how you’d like them to go. Some plumbing issues are very easy to repair, while others can become quite a bit more difficult. Whatever the problem you’re having, you need to be informed about plumbing before you start. The advice and tips in this article should help you quickly and safety fix your issues.
To keep your septic tank in good working order, it is advisable to have it pumped out every five years. Having your septic pumped will keep sediments from settling to the bottom of the septic tank and causing the tank to malfunction or backup. Although it is somewhat of an expense to pump out a septic tank, it is nothing compared to what you will have to spend on cleaning up a backup of sewage or repairing or replacing your septic system.
Use a strainer over your sink drain to catch food and other bits of material. Otherwise, you will likely get a clogged drain. Kitchen sink strainers should be cleaned every time they collect large food particles. The ones in the bathroom can be cleaned out as needed.
If you notice orange or pink stains in your bathroom fixtures, this is because of the iron in your water. This is fixed by using water softener, which can be bought at a store, or you can have someone come to your home and fix it.
Maintain smooth functioning of the drain in your bathtub by dropping baking soda and then vinegar down it on a monthly basis. Plug the opening or cover it with a cloth while the chemical reaction takes place. Wait for a little while, and then pour boiling water down the drain. Doing this will help rid your pipes of disgusting soap scum and blockages.
Install water-saving shower heads to reduce your energy costs. A lot of the hot water that we use is used when we shower. By installing an energy-efficient shower head that might cost a few dollars, you could save at least $100 a year per person who showers in your house.
Kitchen Sink
If you have unwanted water that drains in your dishwasher, it’s probably due to the kitchen sink’s hose being improperly installed. The hose connecting the kitchen sink and the dishwasher has to go up and then down in order for the water of both locations to not mix.
To minimize potential problems with your toilet, avoid using it as a trash receptacle. Nothing should be flushed down the toilet except human waste and toilet tissue. Flushing sanitary napkins, diapers, disposable napkins, and other materials is a sure recipe for a clogged drain and a backed-up toilet. Use the least amount of toilet paper that you can; use just as much as necessary to properly clean yourself.
Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to replacing a shower head. People will buy the cheapest option thinking it will do the job they need it to do. Usually these break easily.
Choose enzyme based cleaners if your pipes get clogged. These cleaners turn the sludge into a liquid using natural bacteria, and then the liquid flows out of the pipes. The cleaners which use enzymes are currently rated the best available.
Lint Trap
Make sure to clean your dryer’s lint trap. This can save you a lot of trouble, including preventing fires. Regularly check your dryer’s lint trap to see if it has any tears or holes that could potentially damage your dryer, and clog up your plumbing.
The key towards maintaining low plumbing repair bills is prevention. Clogs are the most commonly reported problems when it comes to plumbing issues. Drains are frequently clogged by hair. You can prevent this from occurring by using a drain cover or a screen that is meant to keep the hair out of the drain and pipes. You can remove hair much easier from a screen as opposed to getting it out of the inside of a pipe.
If you have frozen pipes that can be a very costly repair. However, this problem can be prevented. First, you need to check your outside pipe to make sure it has the proper insulation. Also, when it starts to get colder, drain and disconnect your hoses and turn off the outside faucet. Be proactive about this and save on future repair bills.
If grout is stuck in your plumbing, getting rid of it is likely not going to be a do it yourself project. You can break the grout up and make it go further down the line. This is more successful in plastic plumbing as compared to metal pipes. However, this problem usually requires the help of a plumber.
It may be that you cannot control which plumber is sent to your house, though it is possible to read up on their qualifications. If your insurance company has just scheduled someone for you, checking out their website and customer feedback and reviews still gives the ability to be ready for them comfortably when they arrive.
If you need a plumber, check out their credentials before hiring them. Certain plumbers may not have the necessary skill or experience to deal with more advanced plumbing jobs, and could make matters worse. Look for reviews on the internet, and ask your friends and family if they can recommend a good plumber.
Check your faucets outside for dripping or leaking before winter arrives. If you find a problem, you need to move quickly to repair it, lest the faucet crack. Whether your pipes are made of plastic, copper or steel, the water pressure caused by freezing water will make them crack. Even a small crack is capable of releasing enough water to damage or flood your home.
As was said in the introduction, there are a lot of different things that can cause your plumbing system to fail. The information in this article should help to prepare you to face those problems with knowledge and confidence.