Your home’s performance depends on a well-maintained plumbing system. Which also helps you avoid future expensive repairs or replacements. With a well-maintained plumbing system, you may have clean water and effective drains for many years.
In writing this general plumbing guide, we aim to support homeowners with helpful information and best practices for maintaining their home’s plumbing system, which includes everything from routine maintenance to specialized parts.
What Is Meant by Plumbing System?
Plumbing is a critical system that brings water into homes and removes waste. It has been around for centuries, with the first evidence dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization.
Today’s plumbing systems are complex, using copper, PVC, and PEX pipes and fixtures like toilets, sinks, and showers. Despite its importance, plumbing is often taken for granted, as it is essential for clean water and waste removal.
Modern systems ensure safety and comfort in homes and businesses.
When faced with issues in your plumbing system, it’s importantly to seek professional plumbers to ensure proper repair and maintenance.
Here is a complete guideline for maintaining your home’s plumbing system:
Regular Inspections and Visual Checks
Making routine visual checks and inspections of your home’s plumbing system is one of the most essential maintenance procedures. Keep an eye out for leak indicators, such as wet spots, mold, or water stains, as these could be a symptom of a plumbing problem.
Inspect exposed pipes for damage, rust, and any loose fittings. In addition, look for any wear or drips on showerheads, faucets, and other fixtures. You can save future expensive repairs or replacements by seeing possible issues early on.
Clear Your Clogged Drains
Slow drainage and offensive odors are just two of the plumbing problems that can result from clogged drains. Using a plunger or a drain snake to remove the obstruction is a straightforward but efficient solution.
First, put the plunger over the drain and plunge forcefully a few times. If the obstruction continues, consider using a drain snake to clear any material causing it. When handling plumbing tools, always wear gloves and proceed with caution.
Maintain Water Heater & Garbage Disposal
Maintaining a water heater properly guarantees peak performance and increases its longevity. As silt buildup might reduce the tank’s efficiency, start by draining the tank. Ensure the pressure release valve is operating correctly by checking it as well. If you see any wear and tear or diminished performance indications, think about hiring an expert to do additional assessments and make the required fixes.
Properly maintaining garbage disposals can prevent clogs, unpleasant odors, and malfunctions. Use cold water, avoid fibrous materials, grind ice or citrus peels, and contact a professional if necessary.
Check the Sump Pump Functionality
A well-operating sump pump aids in preventing water damage and basement flooding. To keep your sump pump functioning correctly, regularly check the sump pit and its surroundings for debris and remove it as needed.
Pour a pail of water into the pit to test the float switch’s functionality and the pump’s ability to activate and drain the water adequately. Replace your sump pump if it’s old or beginning to exhibit failure symptoms to prevent future flooding problems.
Inspect Septic Tank
The septic system should be inspected yearly or as soon as the house is ready for sale. This will increase the property’s worth and help you avoid liability problems from a broken system. If a potential buyer has yet to have their septic system tested recently, it is in their best interest to insist on having it done before they buy the house.
Regular septic tank inspection is vital for maintaining the functionality of the system, as well as ensuring compliance with local regulations and standards.