Well-maintained plumbing is key in keeping your home free from damage. However, plumbing problems do arise and having a plumber come out might not be feasible because of the timing or costs. If you want to learn how to work with your plumbing system, read this article.
To keep your pipes from getting frozen, always maintain a temperature in the house above freezing and make sure all pipes exposed to outside elements are insulated properly. Obviously, if it is below freezing outdoors, the pipes will be subjected to the same temperatures. It can take a while for the pipes to thaw, which means you will not be able to run water for quite some time. However, they might burst, which will cause an enormous mess and repair bill.
If you have pipes that sound as if they’re squeaking or hammering, it’s an easy fix. Exposed pipes need to be anchored. Pipes that are contained within the floors, walls and ceilings may need to be attended by a professional plumber.
Do not give a plumber the entire payment for a job until the whole job is completed. You might have to give them a deposit, but do not give them the entire sum of money until you are sure they have done a good job. You will feel better paying the bill when you are completely satisfied with the job.
Garbage Disposal
Never try to fix a garbage disposal by putting your hand down into it. Even while turned off, the garbage disposal is still a dangerous place for your fingers. Locate a diagram of the garbage disposal, or some sort of troubleshooter, online.
Sifting drainers are available for any size drain to prevent items larger than a grain of sand going into your pipes. Whenever large particles become trapped in the strainer, remove them. Bathtub strainers need regular cleaning as well.
You can check for damage to the floors around the toilets by checking for soft areas. Sit reversed on the toilet (facing the tank) with your feet on the floor. Rock your weight onto each foot in turn and see if you can feel any weakness or “give” in the floor. You can save money by noticing and treating this problem as early as possible.
Put the strainer on top of drains to catch any food that would go down and cause a clog. The strainer used in the kitchen will need to be cleaned frequently. You should also clean your bathtub strainer any time it is slow to drain.
Don’t pour oils, grease or fat down the drain. Whenever they cool, they tend to harden and make clogs inside your drains. As an owner of a garbage disposal, this is important because the blades will stop working if they have fat on them. Pour the grease and oil into a can to cool, put it in the trash.
If you live in a home using well water and your bathtubs have stains pink and orange in color, this is likely a result of iron levels in the well water. You can combat this by using a water softener. You can either purchase it at a store, or hire a company to come to your house to set it up for you.
Plumbing Problems
As stated from above, there are lots of tricks and tips one can use to repair plumbing problems in your home. Apply what you have learned here, and build on that knowledge. You will find new confidence in being able to fix plumbing problems without having the expense of a professional plumber.