Taking Care of Your Plumbing is Easy When you Prevent Leaks Using These Tips
As a homeowner in Miami, FL, you are probably aware of the cost-saving power of preventative maintenance. Another bonus is that you can save yourself a lot of stress too by identifying problems before they have a chance to get out of hand.
This is certainly the case when it comes to your plumbing system. A little ongoing maintenance and vigilance can be your best safeguard against dealing with pesky, messy, expensive water leaks.
Here are some tips to help you get started.
Corrosion Avoidance
One of the biggest contributors to plumbing leaks is corrosion. Over time, as the minerals and other components in the water come in contact with the pipes, they get weak and break, causing leaks.
You can mitigate this problem in a few ways. Replace copper pipes with more durable PVC piping.
Don’t let water get too hot, as hot water promotes corrosion. Run water frequently as standing water is a problem too.
How to Identify Leaks
When you see pooling water or moisture on your plumbing, you know you’ve got a leak, right? Did you know that there are a number of other signs of leaks that aren’t obvious to the naked eye?
Watch for rising water bills, sunken patches on your lawn and low water pressure. Listen for rushing water behind the walls.
Check all your plumbing fixtures and appliances regularly for signs of leaks.
Drain Cleaners are Harmful
The chemicals in clog removal cleaners are good at disintegrating clogs, but they are also very harmful to your plumbing.
The toxic fumes aren’t good for your family to inhale either. The chemicals bind to the sides of your pipes, causing decay and leaks.
It’s more effective to use a plumbing snake, or to try ot avoid clogs at all with regular professional drain cleaning; you can also help by keeping anything that doesn’t belong out of your drains, especially food and grease.
Lower Water Pressure
A blast under the shower spray can feel great at the end of a long day or be a pleasant way to start the morning, but the long-term impact on your plumbing is not good.
Check the water pressure. What is it registered at? Reduce it so that it is between 40-50 psi and never, ever more than 60 psi. More than 60 psi is very dangerous for your plumbing.
Don’t forget about your plumbing. Most homeowners don’t give it a thought until you spring a leak. You can prevent that from happening at all.