Taking the proper precautions and preventative measures can save you from dealing with a surprise plumbing disaster when you least expect it. Here are a number plumbing tips to help you avoid plumbing disasters.
It’s pretty simple, if you are good to your drains they will be good to you. This goes for all of the drains in your house, from the kitchen sink to the toilet. Watch what goes down it. Your drain system is an integral part of your plumbing system, tasked with the removal of waste water, this is not something you want to interfere with. To keep things flowing smoothly, watch what goes down your drains.
Here are some things to never pour down the drain or flush down the toilet:
• Large food scraps
• Bones
• Grease and fats
• Fibrous food (like potato peels and corn husks)
• Chemicals
• Medications
• Plastic
• Paper, unless specifically designed to flush like toilet paper
• Glass
• Hair
• Feminine products
• Nappies
• Wipes
Placing these things down the drain can interfere with the function of your drains. In addition, if you are on a septic tank these things can interfere with the natural balance of your septic tank and lead to other problems other than clogs.
Installing screens over all drains to prevent unwanted debris from entering them is also a simple and cost effective way of reducing the chance of blockages.
Plumbing leaks are a huge source for water waste around the house, which is not only wasteful, but can also affect the pocket of households with water meters. Undetected leaks can also lead to water damage and mould, which can be expensive to repair, and directly affect yours and your family’s health.
The best line of defence against plumbing leaks is to be proactive with your leak detection, and learn to spot the signs of a hidden leak. Listen for drips or the sound of running water, know how to recognise the smell of mould and mildew, look for any unexplained water puddles, and check your water bill for any unexplained hikes. You should also visually check around taps, shower-heads, baths, showers, toilets, under sinks, and around any water using appliance. Make repairs right away when a leak is detected to prevent further drain damage, and minimise the costs of drain repair.
Water heaters, and boilers often go neglected, which can eventually lead to a plumbing disaster. You should inspect your water heater / boiler annually to make sure it is in good working order. Inspect for any signs of corrosion, make sure the pilot has a strong flame, listen for any loud rumbling or banging sounds, make sure hot water comes out clean and clear, and check for puddles around the base. In addition, every water heater should be drained and flushed annually to minimise sediment buildup. This can help your water heater last longer and run more efficiently.
If you need any further advice around drain cleaning / preventative maintenance, please do not hesitate to contact TWC Drain Care on 0333 3052243 or visit www.twc-draincare.com
