Hi there! At Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling, we believe in helping you keep your home’s plumbing in great shape. We know that taking care of your plumbing system can save you time, money, and stress. Here are eight simple plumbing preventative maintenance tips to help you avoid any unexpected issues.
1. Check for Leaks Regularly
Leaks can cause a lot of damage if they’re not fixed quickly. Make it a habit to check under sinks, around toilets, and along pipes for any signs of water. Even a small drip can waste a lot of water and lead to bigger problems. If you spot a leak, give us a call right away!
How to Spot a Leak
Look for water stains, damp spots, or puddles around your home. When no water is being used, monitor your water meter before and after a two-hour period. If you notice changes in the meter, you might have a leak.
2. Inspect Your Water Heater
Your water heater is an essential part of your home. To keep it running smoothly, check it at least once a year. Look for any signs of rust or leaks. If you hear any strange noises, it might be time for a professional inspection.
Water Heater Maintenance Tips
Flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment. This helps improve efficiency and extends its life. Set the thermostat to 120 degrees to prevent accidents with scalding water. Lower water temperatures can also save on energy bills.
3. Clean Your Drains
Clogged drains can be a big headache. To avoid this, clean your drains regularly. You can use a simple mixture of vinegar and baking soda to keep them clear. After pouring the mixture down the drain, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
Preventing Clogged Drains
Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, and large food particles down the drain. Use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris.
4. Test Your Water Pressure
High water pressure can damage your pipes and appliances. Use a water pressure gauge to test your home’s water pressure. The ideal range is between 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch).
Adjusting Water Pressure
If your water pressure is too high, you might need a pressure regulator. If you’re not sure how to adjust it, give us a call and we can help!
5. Inspect Toilet Parts
Toilets have many parts that can wear out over time. Check the flapper, fill valve, and other parts inside the tank. If you notice any issues, such as constant running or weak flushing, it might be time for some maintenance.
Simple Toilet Fixes
Replacing a flapper or fill valve is a simple and inexpensive fix. These parts are available at most hardware stores.
6. Maintain Outdoor Faucets
Don’t forget about your outdoor plumbing! Check outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks. In the winter, make sure to disconnect hoses and cover faucets to prevent freezing.
Protecting Outdoor Plumbing
Install frost-free spigots to prevent freezing. Insulate any exposed pipes to keep them from bursting in cold weather.
7. Know Where Your Shut-Off Valves Are
Before an emergency occurs, knowing how to shut off your main water supply is very important. The main shut off valve controls the water supply to your entire home. Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to turn it off.
Practice Turning Off the Water
Turn off the water to your home once a year to make sure the valve works properly. If it’s hard to turn or doesn’t shut off completely, it might need to be replaced.
8. Schedule Professional Inspections
Having a professionally trained plumber complete once-a-year plumbing inspections goes a long way to helping prevent major plumbing issues down the road. At Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling, we’re here to help you keep your plumbing in top condition.
Benefits of Professional Inspections
A professional inspection can catch small problems before they become big ones. We can also give you tips on how to maintain your plumbing system and make any necessary repairs.
Plumbing Maintenance with Shadrach
Taking care of your plumbing system doesn’t have to be difficult. With these eight plumbing preventative maintenance tips, you can keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly and avoid unexpected issues.
If you ever need help, Shadrach Plumbing & Cooling is just a phone call away. We’re proud to serve Fountain Hills, AZ, and the surrounding areas with integrity, honesty, and top-notch service. Give us a call today and let us help you keep your plumbing in great shape!
