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The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that American households waste about one trillion gallons of water every year, which enough water for over 11 million homes. Plumbing leaks and burst pipes are the leading cause of this wastage. Luckily they can be identified early enough through preventive maintenance.
Preventive plumbing maintenance can also help you safeguard your home against water damage, and save you money on repair costs. To ensure you enjoy all these benefits, here are ten tips you should consider.
1. Fix Leaking Faucets and Showerheads
One drip every two seconds from your faulty tap wastes over 3,000 gallons of water annually. Plumbing leaks worsen over time, with the drips becoming more consistent and your water bills soaring high. Check the faucets and showerheads for any leaks and repair them before they get out of hand.
2. Check Appliances for Water Leaks
Water appliances in your home, such as laundry machines and water heaters, are notorious for hidden leaks. Regularly inspect the equipment for wet patches and water puddles. A drip tray set under the appliances prevents the leaking water from damaging your walls and floorboards.
3. Fix the Gurgling Toilet
Faulty seal valves on your valve seat may cause the toilet to keep running. The seal decays over time due to mineral deposits. Replacing the rubber flapper may fix the problem. The EPA estimates that replacing old faulty toilets can save you up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.
4. Clean the Showerhead
Mineral deposits on the showerhead block the holes, putting a strain on the water heater. Regularly clean out the sediments and enjoy your showers at the right water pressure.
5. Check the Water Pressure
While you may enjoy the high water pressure as you shower, the force usually puts a strain on your faucets and pipes. Your water pipe joints weaken and are prone to bursting. Use a pressure gauge to identify the high-pressure and low-pressure tap on your plumb line. Whenever you notice any significant pressure differences, consider calling professional plumbers in San Jose to follow up on the same.
6. Unclog Blocked Drains
Clogged drains have a slower flow that leads to the water backing up and bubbling from the drain holes. Call in the plumber for a routine maintenance check and unblock all your drain pipes. A flowing drain has a complete whirling as the water flashes down the line.
7. Watch What You Flush Down the Drains
Hair, grease, and plastics can aggregate and form solid masses that block your drains. Be careful about the items you pour into the drain. Only toilet paper and human waste should be flushed down the toilet.
8. Inspect Your Sewer Drains
Create a maintenance schedule for your sewer pipes. You should have the drains inspected every six months for blockages and tree roots. Your local plumber should be able to snake the drain and remove any blockages before they can cause any substantial damage.
9. Pipe Insulation
Insulate all water pipes in the colder areas within the house such as the basement and the attic. Insulation prevents ‘water freezing’ that may burst your pipes, causing extensive damage.
10. Repair Plumbing Issues Immediately
Plumbing emergencies tend to occur when least expected. Make sure you arrest the problem while it’s still small. Find a Sacramento area plumber to come check on that problem and inspect other household fixtures and pipes for leaks and repair them.
In Conclusion
Preventive plumbing maintenance is essential in keeping your plumb works safe and efficient. Plumbing systems represent 10% of your house value, and regular checks may help maintain the value of your home. Call your local Sacramento plumbing company today and create a maintenance schedule for your home.
